Key facts
- TRM Labs identified World Cup-themed crypto fraud operations targeting FIFA fans.
- Scammers are using fake ticketing sites and fixed-match betting schemes.
- FIFA and the FBI have warned fans about potential ticket scams.
- Tickets purchased outside official channels may be invalid and subject to cancellation.
Crypto scammers are exploiting the demand for the FIFA World Cup by targeting fans with fraudulent schemes, according to TRM Labs. The blockchain intelligence firm has identified several World Cup-related scam operations, including fake ticketing websites and fixed-match betting pitches linked to multiple cryptocurrency addresses.
Ari Redbord, global head of policy at TRM Labs, noted that criminals often exploit major events by positioning their infrastructure weeks in advance. He highlighted that the on-chain nature of crypto payments can aid investigators in acting before losses escalate.