Cryptocurrency traps for those seeking second citizenship: a new scheme to deceive Russians
The market for second citizenship services has become fertile ground for scammers, and in 2025–2026, we are witnessing an alarming trend: criminals are actively incorporating cryptocurrency tools into their schemes. Digital assets are used not only to extract advance payments but also to completely drain the electronic wallets of unsuspecting individuals. This is not just theft of money—it is a methodical destruction of financial security.
The mechanics of the attack are as follows. The scammer initiates contact themselves, posing as a client seeking to obtain residency or citizenship. They select service providers willing to accept payment in cryptocurrency. Under the pretext of making an advance payment, the victim is asked to provide their crypto wallet address, supposedly to verify the balance. After that, the client is quietly handed over to a more experienced accomplice, who uses phishing links or malicious dApps (decentralized applications) to withdraw all funds. The goal is not just to get an advance payment but to completely zero out the wallet.
Why this is especially dangerous for cryptocurrency holders
The primary targets of criminals are entrepreneurs and people planning relocation—that is, those who are likely to have significant savings in digital assets. The risks here go far beyond financial losses. Victims risk becoming subjects of criminal cases related to illegal migration, which permanently closes the path to legally obtaining a foreign passport. Additionally, scammers actively use hacked messenger accounts and create high-quality clone websites of migration agencies.
In addition to cryptocurrency traps, 2026 is seeing a rise in calls supposedly from consulates demanding urgent payment of fines, as well as offers to obtain a passport remotely without proof of ancestry. All these schemes share one thing: anonymity and irreversibility of cryptocurrency transactions.
My analysis shows: the market for second citizenship services has become an ideal environment for crypto fraud due to the high cost of services and clients' desire to speed up the process. The only way to protect yourself is thorough verification: never transfer advance payments in cryptocurrency or to personal bank cards. All transactions must go through an official contract via a legal entity's bank account. Use two-factor authentication and avoid sending documents through open channels. In a world where scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, your vigilance is your only reliable asset.