Common C2C crypto trading scam cases
Scam case 1: Fake payment proof using forged screenshots
In this scam, the scammer places a buy order but does not actually complete the payment. They click “I have transferred, notify seller” on the order page and then urge the Maker to release crypto by sending forged payment screenshots.
These payment proofs are often carefully edited using image tools and closely resemble genuine receipts generated by banks or payment apps, making them difficult to identify at a glance. If the Maker trusts the screenshots without verifying that the funds have actually been credited to their account and releases the crypto, the assets will be transferred to the scammer and cannot be recovered.
Below are examples of forged payment proofs commonly used in such scams.
How to avoid this scam?
Always verify that the actual funds have been credited to your bank account or payment account before releasing crypto.
Do not rely on screenshots, images, or “payment proof” provided by the buyer. These can be forged.
If you encounter this situation, do not release crypto manually. Contact OKX customer service immediately for assistance.
When posting ads, consider setting a higher counterparty verification level.
Scammers involved in this type of fraud are often only Lv.1 verified, while the highest verification level on OKX is Lv.3. A higher verification level generally indicates a more secure and reliable account.
Scam case 2: Impersonating official customer service after order cancellation
In this scenario, after a buy or sell order times out or is canceled, scammers impersonate OKX official customer service and contact the customer or Maker via IM. They falsely claim that the order is being handled by a “specialist” and then guide the victim to perform off-platform transfers or authorize transactions.
By following these instructions, customers may unknowingly transfer funds or grant permissions, resulting in asset loss.
The image on the left shows an OTC high-price USDT scam.
The image on the right shows a fake customer service guiding an OTC transaction scam.
How to avoid this scam?
Do not trust requests for offline transactions or asset transfers sent by strangers.
Always complete P2P buy/sell crypto transactions within the OKX platform.
If someone claims to be an official representative, you can verify their identity in the app:
Go to Menu > Get help > Verify official channels
For more information on how to prevent fake customer service scams, click: How to prevent fake customer service scams?