Warning: Fake crypto trading platforms pushed in “stock tip” chat groups

You are added — sometimes by a contact whose account has been compromised — to a messaging app group focused on share trading or stock tips. Group members, who are themselves fake accounts controlled by the scammer, post enthusiastic “results” and encourage newcomers to try a particular crypto trading platform or app.

The platform has a slick dashboard showing your balance growing steadily, sometimes even allowing a small early withdrawal to build confidence. Once a larger amount is deposited, withdrawals are blocked behind invented “taxes”, “verification”, or “unlocking” fees, and the operators disappear once the well runs dry.

Australia's Scamwatch is warning that these platforms are entirely fabricated — no real trading occurs — and that any investment platform introduced through an unsolicited group chat should be treated as high-risk.