Pig Butchering
A long-running scam that builds a relationship or friendship before steering you into a fake investment.
How it appears in scam messages
Pig-butchering builds a romantic or friendly relationship over days or weeks, then steers you to a fake crypto or trading platform showing fake profits. Small early 'gains' build trust before you're pushed to deposit more, and withdrawals are blocked behind fees.
Example only - do not act on it
Example only: Let me show you how I trade - start small and we'll grow it together.
Why it matters
It blends romance and investment fraud, causing large, slow losses.
Common red flags
- Unexpected contact creating urgency or fear
- Requests for codes, passwords, payment, or personal details
- Links or attachments you did not expect
- Sender or domain that does not match the real organisation
Safe next steps
- Stop and verify through official channels you find yourself
- Never share codes, passwords, or card details from a message
- Use the message checker if you are unsure
- Report and block the sender
Related scam types
Related scam messages you can check
- Is this crypto investment group invite a scam?
- Is this fake mining platform scam a scam?
- Is this fake crypto tax/withdrawal fee a scam?
- Is this fake crypto loan liquidation message a scam?
- Is this fake trading profit withdrawal fee a scam?
Related scam-type hubs
Related red flags
Emergency guides
Frequently asked questions
How can I avoid pig butchering?
Slow down, never act on urgency, and verify through official apps or websites you open yourself. Use the free checker if a message seems off.
What if I have already been affected?
Contact your bank or the relevant provider through official channels, change any exposed passwords from a trusted device, and save evidence. See our recovery guides.