FBI Dismantles 241 Crypto Scam Sites Across Global Network

United States authorities have dismantled 241 websites connected to an international cryptocurrency fraud operation, exposing the scale of a criminal network accused of stealing tens of millions of dollars from unsuspecting investors.

The operation was conducted by the Brooklyn District Attorney's Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation following a three-year investigation into fraudulent investment activities linked to infrastructure in Eastern Europe. Established in 2023, the specialised prosecutorial unit was created to address cryptocurrency fraud affecting local communities, particularly residents vulnerable to targeted investment scams. Its previous investigations included a June 2024 operation that seized 70 internet domains connected to schemes responsible for approximately $5 million in losses. Before the latest enforcement action, the unit had already disrupted or removed approximately 400 domains associated with cryptocurrency investment fraud.

Investigators seized 112 servers located across the United States and Eastern Europe, effectively disrupting the technological systems supporting the alleged criminal enterprise.

It was reported that the fraudulent network primarily targeted Russian speaking communities living in Brooklyn and other parts of the United States.

Investigators discovered that numerous victims had initially encountered the schemes through Facebook advertisements promoting cryptocurrency investment opportunities.

These advertisements allegedly directed prospective investors toward websites controlled by the criminal network, creating opportunities for fraudsters to obtain funds through deceptive investment arrangements.

The investigation traced internet infrastructure and associated addresses to Ukraine and other Eastern European locations, highlighting the international complexity of the operation.

Rather than concentrating exclusively on individual scammers, authorities pursued the technological infrastructure that allowed the network to operate.

By confiscating servers, investigators disrupted access to victim information, website content and operational systems used by the suspected fraudsters.

However, shutting down fraudulent websites does not automatically mean that stolen assets have been recovered or that victims will receive compensation.

According to FBI figures cited in the reporting, Americans disclosed approximately $11.4 billion in cryptocurrency fraud losses during 2025, representing an increase of 22% compared with the previous year.