Coin Stories with Natalie Brunell

Erin West: The Romance-Crypto Scam Taking Over - "Pig Butchering" Explained

Nov 5, 2025
Guest
Erin West
In this enlightening talk, Erin West, a leading expert on transnational organized crime and founder of Operation Shamrock, dives deep into the dangerous world of "pig butchering" scams. She reveals how emotional manipulation leads countless victims to lose everything and the shocking operations behind these scams in Southeast Asia. Erin discusses the recent $14 billion DOJ seizure, the role of crypto forensics in recovering funds, and the urgent need for social media platforms to combat this growing threat. Tune in for essential tips on protecting yourself!
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ANECDOTE

Public Figure Impersonation Cost A Family

  • A prominent Bitcoiner was impersonated and thanked by a fan who had sent life savings to a fake dashboard.
  • The impersonator used a fabricated investment dashboard showing massive gains until the victim lost everything.
INSIGHT

Victims Are Diverse And Hidden

  • Victims span genders and ages; losses are often larger in aggregate from people under 60.
  • Shame and humiliation keep victims silent, hiding the epidemic's true scale.
INSIGHT

Scam Operations Are Industrialized

  • These scams operate in industrialized compounds housing dozens to hundreds of trafficked workers.
  • Workers are forced to call and text victims under threat and brutal conditions.
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