2026-01-16 00:23:00

Spot the scam: those slick online ads with compelling founder stories? Many aren't actually from legitimate small businesses. Fraudsters are getting creative—polishing up their pitches with sob stories and professional visuals to look legit. Before you click that "buy now" button, do your homework. Check if the business has real social proof, authentic reviews, and verifiable contact info. In the crypto and Web3 space especially, this tactic thrives. Stay skeptical, verify sources, and remember: if it feels too polished to be true, it probably is.

This page may contain third-party content, which is provided for information purposes only (not representations/warranties) and should not be considered as an endorsement of its views by Gate, nor as financial or professional advice. See Disclaimer for details.

20 Likes

Reward
20
8
Repost
Share

Comment

0/400

MEVHunterLucky

· 01-18 23:24

It's so realistic. I now directly pass on those polished copywriting paired with founder stories. Especially in the Web3 space, scammers are more professional than the next, so I have to filter through them before I dare to engage.

View OriginalReply0

SnapshotStriker

· 01-18 14:51

So realistic, I've been scammed by this kind of elaborate scheme before. The founder's story is told so convincingly, but after checking social media, it's all fake accounts.

View OriginalReply0

GasFeeCrier

· 01-16 00:52

Web3 is so tired. I'm already bored of those highly polished founder stories; I can tell at a glance that it's all acting.

View OriginalReply0

TxFailed

· 01-16 00:51

ngl, learned this the hard way after dropping two grand on some "founder's journey" narrative that turned out to be a stock photo model and a burner email. the polish is literally the tells now—if your gut says too clean, your wallet's already bleeding.

Reply0

GmGnSleeper