Crypto Assets

You should know that those who are offering crypto asset investments or services may not be in compliance with applicable law, including federal securities laws.  These investments also can be speculative, risky, and volatile.  If you are considering an investment opportunity involving crypto assets, you may be wondering if it is legal, if it is right for you, or even whether it might be a scam.  We urge you to be cautious in considering whether crypto asset investments are appropriate for you.

Here are some resources to help you better understand these complex topics:

 

Crypto Landing 1

Thinking About Buying the Latest New Cryptocurrency or Token?

Read our Director’s Take article to learn about investing in crypto assets.

Crypto Landing 2

Celebrity Endorsements
 

Be cautious with celebrity endorsements of investment products.  Watch this video to learn more.

Crypto Landing 3

SEC Crypto Assets and Cyber Enforcement Actions

Learn about actions involving crypto assets that the SEC’s Division of Enforcement has brought.

 

Understand Your Investments

Many so-called “pig butchering” scams involve crypto assets.

“Pig butchering” scams are where a fraudster gradually builds trust with victims (similar to how pigs are fattened up before slaughter), convinces victims to “invest” their money, and then steals the victims’ money.

Fraudsters may initiate contact with potential victims on social media platforms -- including professional networking, dating, and messaging websites/apps -- or through unsolicited text messages.  The fraudster may pretend to be an old friend or claim to have contacted the victim accidentally.  The fraudster then initiates a friendship or romantic relationship with the victim to gain their trust, and convinces them to invest their money before disappearing with the funds.

Learn more about pig butchering scams and how to avoid them:

Learn More

Additional Information

Contact Us

                  U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission
                  Office of Investor Education and Advocacy
                  100 F Street, NE
                  Washington, DC 20549-0213

Paid for by the SEC