To trace a pig butchering scam, preserve every crypto deposit's transaction hash and the fake platform's details, cut all contact, report to law enforcement and any exchange involved, then follow the funds on-chain to the cash-out point. These long-con scams combine relationship manipulation with a convincing but fake investment platform.
How the scam works
It often starts with a friendly message or a dating-app match. Over weeks, trust is built, then the target is introduced to a "high-return" crypto platform. Fake profits encourage larger deposits — until withdrawals are blocked behind endless fees.
Step 1: Stop and secure
Cut contact immediately and send no more money, including any "withdrawal tax." Move any remaining assets to a secure wallet and revoke risky token approvals.
Step 2: Preserve everything
Save the platform URL, chat logs, profiles, and — critically — the transaction hashes and wallet addresses for every deposit. These are what make tracing possible.
Step 3: Report it
File reports with your local police/cybercrime unit, your bank or exchange, and national fraud centres. Then report the platform to warn others.
Step 4: Trace the crypto
Because deposits were made in crypto, they can be followed on-chain to the exchange where scammers cash out. Start a free case review to build the evidence trail for recovery.