Romance Scam & Pig Butchering Investigation
Trace cryptocurrency stolen through romance scams and pig butchering fraud. We follow your funds through the scammer's wallet network to identify exchange destinations for potential recovery.
Understanding Romance Scams
Romance scams—also known as "pig butchering" or "sha zhu pan" (杀猪盘)—are sophisticated fraud operations where criminals build fake romantic relationships to manipulate victims into sending cryptocurrency. These scams typically involve weeks or months of relationship building before the "investment opportunity" is introduced.
Victims are directed to fake trading platforms that show fabricated profits, encouraging larger deposits. The platforms look legitimate but are completely controlled by scammers. When victims try to withdraw, they're told to pay "taxes" or "fees"—extracting even more money before the scammer disappears.
Our investigation traces the actual blockchain transactions—not the fake numbers shown on fraudulent platforms. We follow your cryptocurrency from initial transfers through the scammer's wallet network, identifying where funds ultimately went and which exchanges received deposits.
How Pig Butchering Scams Work
Initial Contact
Scammer initiates contact through dating apps, social media, WhatsApp, or "wrong number" texts. They present an attractive persona—often using stolen photos—and invest time building rapport.
Relationship Building
Over weeks or months, the scammer builds emotional connection and trust. They share personal details, make future plans, and position themselves as a caring partner.
Investment Introduction
The scammer casually mentions their "successful" crypto trading, eventually offering to help the victim invest. They introduce a fake trading platform that shows fabricated profits.
Escalating Deposits
Victims see their "balance" grow on the fake platform and are encouraged to deposit more. The scammer may initially allow small withdrawals to build trust before blocking larger ones.
The "Slaughter"
When the victim tries to withdraw significant funds, the platform demands taxes, fees, or deposits to "unlock" the account. Eventually the scammer disappears and the platform shuts down.
Our Investigation Services
Comprehensive tracing for romance scam recovery
Complete Fund Tracing
Track every crypto transaction from your wallet through the scammer's network of addresses to final destinations.
Exchange Identification
Identify when funds reach exchanges like Binance, Coinbase, or KuCoin—critical for potential recovery.
Wallet Clustering
Connect related scammer wallets to identify the full scope of the operation and other victims.
Evidence Compilation
Professional documentation package suitable for law enforcement and legal proceedings.
Cross-Chain Tracking
Follow funds across different blockchains when scammers bridge between networks.
Recovery Support
Ongoing support for law enforcement cooperation and exchange freeze requests.
Investigation Case Study
$340,000 Pig Butchering Case
Victim met scammer on LinkedIn who claimed to be a successful trader. Over 4 months, they deposited $340,000 to a fake trading platform. Our investigation traced funds through 15 intermediate wallets to deposits at two major exchanges.
Evidence package provided to FBI and victim's attorney. Exchange freeze requests submitted within 48 hours of investigation completion.
Romance Scam Investigation FAQ
What is a pig butchering scam (sha zhu pan)?
Pig butchering is a romance scam where fraudsters build relationships with victims over weeks or months—"fattening the pig"—before introducing a fake investment opportunity, usually a fraudulent crypto trading platform. Victims are manipulated into depositing increasing amounts before the scammer disappears with all funds.
Can you trace funds from romance scams?
Yes. We trace cryptocurrency from your initial transfers through the scammer's wallet network. Romance scam operations often use multiple wallets but eventually consolidate funds or deposit to exchanges. Our investigation follows the complete path and identifies exchange touchpoints.
The scammer used a fake trading platform. Can you still trace funds?
Yes. Fake trading platforms show fabricated balances, but actual cryptocurrency transfers are recorded on the blockchain. We trace your real deposits—not the fake platform's displayed numbers—to wherever they actually went.
How quickly should I start an investigation?
As soon as possible. Scammers actively move funds to obscure trails and cash out through exchanges. The sooner investigation begins, the better the chances of tracing funds before they're further laundered or converted to fiat.
I sent money over several months. Can you trace all of it?
Yes. Romance scams often involve multiple transactions over extended periods. We trace every transfer you made, documenting the complete history and following each deposit through the scammer's wallet network.
Will tracing help me recover my funds?
Tracing is the essential first step for any recovery attempt. By identifying where funds went—especially exchange deposits—we create opportunities for law enforcement freeze requests or civil recovery. Recovery isn't guaranteed, but it's impossible without knowing where funds are.
The scammer is overseas. Does that matter?
Most romance scam operations are international, often based in Southeast Asia. This affects law enforcement jurisdiction but not blockchain investigation. We trace funds regardless of where scammers are located, and our evidence supports international cooperation.
What documentation do I receive?
You receive a comprehensive report including: complete transaction tracing, wallet relationship mapping, identified exchanges, fund flow diagrams, timeline of events, and evidence package formatted for law enforcement. Reports are designed to support recovery efforts.
How much does romance scam investigation cost?
Investigation cost depends on case complexity—number of transactions, time span, and whether funds crossed multiple blockchains. Contact us for a case assessment and quote. Given the amounts typically lost to romance scams, investigation is a worthwhile investment in potential recovery.
Should I also report to law enforcement?
Absolutely. File reports with local police, FBI IC3 (US), Action Fraud (UK), or equivalent agencies. Our investigation complements law enforcement efforts—we provide blockchain expertise they may lack, while they have legal powers we don't.
Victim of a Romance Scam?
Time is critical. Start your investigation today to trace your funds before they're further laundered. We provide the evidence needed for recovery efforts.
Free consultation • No obligation • Response within 24 hours