Scammers are targeting the crypto wallets of Russians: a new scheme under the guise of second citizenship
Russians seeking a second passport or residence permit are increasingly falling victim to sophisticated scammers. Criminals expertly exploit fears of bureaucracy and the natural desire to speed up the process. However, the main target of criminals is not just money, but also citizens' cryptocurrency assets.
The scheme looks frighteningly professional. The scammer approaches a potential victim themselves, offering assistance with obtaining citizenship, a residence permit, or a visa. They create the illusion of a reliable partner ready to work quickly and without unnecessary formalities. The key point is that payment for services is accepted exclusively in digital assets.
Cryptocurrency as a Tool for Theft
Under the pretext of making an advance payment, the fraudster requests the victim's crypto wallet address. Ostensibly to check the balance and confirm solvency. After receiving this information, the client is quietly handed over to a more experienced accomplice. Using dangerous crypto drainers and targeted phishing, this accomplice empties the wallet. Both malicious scripts and fake websites created specifically for the individual are used.
The main targets of criminals are entrepreneurs and those planning to relocate. The risks here are colossal: losing large sums is just the tip of the iceberg. In addition to financial losses, victims risk becoming subjects of criminal cases regarding illegal migration, which permanently closes the path to legally obtaining a foreign passport.
Never transfer prepayment in cryptocurrency or to individuals' bank cards. All transactions must go through an official agreement via the legal entity's settlement account.
Other Methods of Deception in 2026
Crypto traps are just part of the arsenal of modern scammers. In 2026, applicants for foreign citizenship may receive unexpected calls supposedly from consulates. The interlocutors demand urgent payment of fines for failing to notify about a move in a timely manner.
Another common tactic remains the offer to obtain a passport remotely and without proof of ancestry. Scammers ask for an advance, take digital copies of personal documents, and disappear without a trace. For example, since August 2025, calls have been recorded using a cunning two-step scheme: first, fake lawyers clarified the application details, and then they took the money. Such actions bring criminals huge profits.
The main trend of 2026 could be the mass use of social engineering. This category includes high-quality clone websites of migration services and targeted advertising. Additionally, hacked messenger accounts and dangerous mobile applications are actively used. Through programs for tracking document status, attackers gain full access to banking profiles.
Ultimately, protecting confidential information comes down to critically evaluating any tempting promises. It is necessary to carefully check domain names and the legal status of companies through registries. Finally, it is important to use two-factor authentication and avoid sending documents over open channels.
Comment from Cryptalist analyst: The cryptocurrency market remains an attractive environment for scammers due to the anonymity and irreversibility of transactions. This scheme is a vivid example of how trust in "intermediaries" can lead to the complete loss of digital assets. I recommend that anyone considering relocation only use licensed law firms with a transparent reputation and never transfer private keys or wallet access to third parties.