AI drives $17 billion in losses in cryptocurrency scams

TL;DR: AI drives $17 billion in losses from cryptocurrency scams

• Cryptocurrency scams reached $17 billion in losses in 2025.
• Impersonation tactics increased by 1400% compared to the previous year.
• The average scam payout surged from $782 in 2024 to $2764 in 2025.
• AI-enabled scams are 4.5 times more profitable than traditional ones.
• AI technology is expected to become an essential component in nearly all future scams.

Increase in losses from cryptocurrency scams

In 2025, losses from cryptocurrency scams reached an alarming total of $17 billion, according to a Chainalysis report. This increase represents significant growth compared to the $12 billion lost in 2024. The research indicates that at least $14 billion of these losses were recorded on the blockchain, but the final figure is expected to be even higher as more illicit wallet addresses are identified in the coming months.

The rise in losses is attributed to the growing sophistication of scammers, who have begun using impersonation tactics and artificial intelligence tools to maximize their profits. Impersonation scams, in particular, have proven devastating, with a 1400% increase in volume compared to the previous year. These types of scams have not only grown in number, but also in impact, with a 253% increase in the average scam amount.

Growth of AI-enabled scams

Artificial intelligence has transformed the cryptocurrency scam landscape, enabling scammers to operate with unprecedented efficiency. Scams that incorporate AI technology are significantly more profitable than traditional ones. According to Chainalysis, scam operations linked to AI service providers generated an average of $3.2 million per operation, compared with approximately $719,000 for those with no connection to AI.

This growth in profitability is due to scammers’ ability to automate processes, personalize attacks, and manage a larger number of victims simultaneously. The combination of impersonation tactics and the use of AI has enabled scammers to create more complex and convincing schemes, which in turn has led to an increase in the amount of funds stolen.

Impersonation tactics and their impact

1400% increase in impersonation scams

Impersonation scams have emerged as one of the most concerning forms of fraud in the cryptocurrency space. These tactics involve scammers posing as trusted entities, such as exchange platforms or government services, to deceive victims and gain access to their funds. In 2025, these scams saw a 1400% increase compared to the previous year, underscoring the growing threat they represent.

Examples of impersonation tactics

A notable example of these tactics is the “E-ZPass” phishing campaign, in which attackers sent fake text messages to users, posing as government toll services. Another case involved scammers who impersonated Coinbase customer support, stealing nearly $16 million from victims. These examples illustrate how scammers are using social engineering techniques to manipulate their victims and gain access to their assets.

Average scam payouts in 2025

The average scam payout has increased dramatically, rising from $782 in 2024 to $2764 in 2025. This 253% increase indicates that scammers are focusing their efforts on a smaller number of victims, but with higher amounts, suggesting a shift toward a “big-game hunting” strategy. This approach is not only more lucrative, but also riskier, as it involves a higher level of personalization and sophistication in the scams.

Statistics on cryptocurrency scams in 2025

Estimates of total losses

Chainalysis has projected that total losses from cryptocurrency scams could exceed $17 billion as more illicit wallet addresses are identified. This increase is based on historical trends showing an average growth of 24% in annual estimates between reporting periods.

Identification of illicit wallet addresses

Identifying illicit wallet addresses is a crucial component in the fight against cryptocurrency fraud. Chainalysis uses data analytics tools to track transaction flows and cluster addresses associated with fraudulent activity. This approach enables authorities and exchange platforms to take more effective action against scammers.

Comparison between AI-enabled and traditional scams

AI-enabled scams have proven to be 4.5 times more profitable than traditional scams. This is d

due to scammers’ ability to use AI tools that optimize their operations, enabling them to reach and manipulate a greater number of victims. Traditional scams, although still prevalent, have not managed to match the efficiency and effectiveness of operations that incorporate AI technology.

Moreover, the convergence of different types of scams has led to greater complexity in the fraud landscape. Scammers now combine elements of various tactics, making fraud harder to identify and prevent.

Future outlook on scams and AI technology

As AI technology continues to evolve, its integration into scam operations is expected to become even more common. Chainalysis warns that we are moving toward a future in which virtually all scams will incorporate some degree of artificial intelligence in their operations. This poses a significant challenge for authorities and exchange platforms, which must adapt to a constantly changing environment.

Impact of scams on consumer confidence

Cryptocurrency scams have had a significant negative impact on consumer confidence. As losses increase and scammers become more sophisticated, investors feel increasingly uncertain about the security of their assets. This erosion of trust can have long-term consequences for the adoption of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology in general.

Exchange platforms and regulators must work together to implement more effective security measures and educate consumers on how to protect themselves against fraud. Trust is an essential component for the growth and acceptance of cryptocurrencies in the global financial market.

Increase in losses from cryptocurrency scams

The rise in losses from cryptocurrency scams is an alarming phenomenon that reflects the growing sophistication of scammers and consumers’ vulnerability. With the integration of artificial intelligence into fraud operations, losses are likely to continue increasing in the coming years. Authorities and exchange platforms must take proactive measures to address this problem and protect investors.

The impact of artificial intelligence on cryptocurrency scams

Alarming growth of impersonation scams

The growth of impersonation scams by iIdentity impersonation is one of the most worrying trends in the cryptocurrency space. Scammers’ ability to pose as trusted entities and manipulate victims has led to a significant increase in losses. Artificial intelligence has facilitated this process, allowing scammers to personalize their attacks and reach a greater number of victims.

The evolution of fraud tactics in the crypto ecosystem

Fraud tactics in the cryptocurrency ecosystem are constantly evolving. As scammers become more sophisticated, so do their methods. The combination of impersonation techniques, social engineering, and artificial intelligence tools has created an environment in which scams are more effective and harder to detect. It is essential that consumers stay informed and cautious to protect themselves against these threats.

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Note: The information presented in this article is based on data collected and analyzed by Chainalysis and other relevant sources. The situation in the cryptocurrency space is dynamic and can change rapidly. Investors are advised to stay informed and adopt appropriate security measures to protect their assets.