The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has issued a stark warning about the rising tide of cryptocurrency scams that employ artificial intelligence (AI) to ensnare unsuspecting investors. These scams are exploiting the growing popularity of cryptocurrency arbitrage trading by promising astronomical returns through AI-powered algorithms. In response, the CFTC is taking action to protect consumers from falling victim to these fraudulent schemes.
Exploitative claims
Fraudsters behind these schemes make audacious claims, luring investors with the promise of generating outsized profits, often in the tens of thousands of percent or touting a 100 percent success rate. These alluring claims encompass a range of algorithms, from automated trading bots to signal providers.
Regulatory action from the CFTC
The CFTC has taken legal action against several individuals who have defrauded customers by marketing commodity pools, crypto assets, or investment programs that falsely pledged consistent, above-average returns through AI utilization. However, instead of delivering on these promises, investors faced substantial financial losses, with some cases resulting in the disappearance of significant amounts of funds, including nearly 30,000 Bitcoin (BTC), valued at approximately $1.7 billion at the time.
Limitations of AI
In its warning, the CFTC highlights that fraudsters are capitalizing on the public’s interest in artificial intelligence (AI) to promote automated trading algorithms, trade signal strategies, and crypto-asset trading schemes that promise unreasonably high or guaranteed returns. The CFTC firmly asserts that AI technology cannot predict the future or sudden market changes, urging investors to exercise caution.
Cautionary advice
In response to the increasing threats posed by these scams, the CFTC advises individuals to be vigilant and skeptical, particularly when they come across AI-related investment opportunities promoted by social media influencers or unknown online entities. To safeguard themselves, potential investors are encouraged to take the following precautions:
1. Research: Investigate the background of the company or trader.
2. Verify Identities: Conduct a reverse image search on key personnel to confirm their identities.
3. Check Domain Age: Examine the history of the trading website by checking the age of the domain registration.
4. Seek a Second Opinion: Discuss the investment with a financial advisor, a trusted friend, or a family member.
5. Understand Risks and Costs: Comprehend the risks associated with the underlying assets, and consider the impact of fees, spreads, and subscription costs on potential returns.
Market recovery and dominance of Bitcoin
Despite the warnings about fraudulent schemes, the cryptocurrency market has experienced a significant recovery. Over the past 24 hours, the total market capitalization of cryptocurrencies has surged by 4%, reaching a total valuation of $1.57 trillion. Bitcoin, as the leading digital currency, continues to maintain its dominance, with a staggering market capitalization of $822 billion, representing 52.52% of the total cryptocurrency market.
While the cryptocurrency market shows signs of resilience and recovery, the CFTC’s cautionary advisory remains crucial. Investors are urged to exercise due diligence and skepticism when evaluating AI-related investment opportunities. By taking these precautionary measures, individuals can protect themselves from falling victim to scams and fraudulent schemes that promise too-good-to-be-true returns. The CFTC remains committed to safeguarding consumers and maintaining the integrity of the cryptocurrency market.
