OKLAHOMA CITY, March 17, 2026 – Promises of quick riches or a financial “pot of gold” are often red flags for cryptocurrency scams, according to the Oklahoma Department of Securities, which is urging investors to use caution before committing money to unfamiliar digital investment opportunities.
As technology evolves through artificial intelligence, digital assets, and social media, bad actors are creating online promises of easy money and quick wealth through popular cryptocurrencies and crypto-investments. By using fake profiles, photos, videos, and even AI-generated voices, fraudsters exploit the hype surrounding these products for their own financial gain.
Cryptocurrency fraud continues to surge nationwide. According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), reported losses reached $9.3 billion in 2024, a 66% increase from the previous year.
“Remember that financial luck rarely comes easy,” said Melanie Hall, administrator of the Oklahoma Department of Securities. “We are continuing to hear from Oklahomans, including those in retirement communities, who have been approached about suspicious cryptocurrency investments. If someone pressures you to act quickly on an opportunity promising fast money, that’s a red flag. Cryptocurrency transactions can be difficult to reverse or trace.”
Learn more about common investment frauds and how to protect yourself by visiting InvestEdOK.org.
ABOUT THE SECURITIES DEPARTMENT: The Oklahoma Department of Securities protects investors and regulates securities offering and professionals in the state. The Securities Department regulates the offer and sale of securities, oversees securities professionals, and enforces state securities laws to prevent fraud and misconduct.
Visit www.securities.ok.gov for more information.
