Scam Type

DeFi Futures Trading Scam Using False AML Protocols

Red Flag

  • Withdrawal tied to unverifiable AML rules.
  • Forced “recharge” payments.
  • Unknown third-party regulators.
  • Platform blocking withdrawals while encouraging continued trading.

Details

The victim joined a trading blog on social media, where he met two individuals—“Mr. Charlie” and “Tina”—claiming to represent Fitbela Epro Limited, a UK-based Forex trading firm. They persuaded him to open a Forex trading account on the Meta 5 Trading platform and promised high returns. The victim initially invested $10,000 and was told the account had grown significantly, prompting him to invest even more. Following their direction, he eventually sent a total of $92,000 via wire transfer. Later, they claimed his account was now worth $200,000. When the victim attempted to withdraw his funds, he was told he needed to pay $87,000 in taxes before any money could be released. At that point, he recognized it as a scam.

Scammer Behaviour

The scam was slow-burning and psychologically calculated. They used a believable interface, early withdrawal success, fake regulatory barriers, and the victim’s own acquaintance to establish trust. They then trapped the victim in a series of escalating deposit requirements—presented as anti-money laundering compliance—while refusing withdrawals and manipulating deposited funds without consent.

Potential Lost Funds

$325,000

Final Outcome

The victim’s funds are frozen, and he's locked out of withdrawals. The platform continues to block access under the pretense of security compliance, and the acquaintance who vouched for it is now seen with suspicion.