Can I recover crypto sent to a scammer?
Usually not. Crypto transactions are typically irreversible, and anyone guaranteeing recovery for an upfront fee is almost certainly a second scammer.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Explanation
Once cryptocurrency is sent and confirmed on the blockchain, it generally can't be reversed. While reporting to your exchange and authorities is worthwhile, recovery is rare and never guaranteed. Be extremely cautious of 'crypto recovery experts' who contact you, advertise guaranteed results, or ask for payment upfront — this is a common follow-up scam targeting victims.
Common red flags
- 'Recovery experts' contacting you unsolicited
- Guaranteed recovery for an upfront fee
- Claims of special access to 'frozen' or 'reversible' funds
- Pressure and secrecy
What to do now
- Report to your exchange and national fraud service
- Record all wallet addresses and transaction hashes
- Never pay an upfront fee to recover crypto
Frequently asked questions
Are any crypto recovery services legitimate?
Genuine help comes from your exchange, your bank (for the fiat leg), and official fraud services — none of which guarantee recovery or demand upfront crypto fees. Treat unsolicited recovery offers as scams.