How to Spot Fake Recovery Services
“Unfortunately I see fake recovery services almost everyday. It’s my job to educate victims and make sure they are getting the real help they need.”
- Joe , Founder, Sicher Height
If you've lost cryptocurrency to a scam, you're vulnerable to being scammed again. Unfortunately, the same criminals who stole your funds, or new opportunists - often pose as "recovery services" to extract even more money from victims. Here's how to protect yourself.
⚠️ CRITICAL WARNING
Never share your private keys or seed phrases with anyone. No legitimate service needs your private keys to trace funds. This is an immediate red flag.
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Red Flags to Watch For
❌ They contacted you first
Legitimate investigators don't cold-call or DM victims on social media. If someone reaches out promising to recover your funds, it's almost certainly a scam.
❌ Guaranteed recovery
No one can guarantee fund recovery. Blockchain investigations are complex, and outcomes depend on many factors beyond anyone's control. Promises of "100% success" or "guaranteed results" are lies. Legitimate investigators are upfront that fund recovery is unlikely—the real value is understanding what happened, identifying perpetrators, and building a case for law enforcement.
❌ Upfront fees before any work
While legitimate services may require a consultation fee or retainer, be wary of large upfront payments before you've seen any evidence of actual investigative work. Scammers disappear once paid.
❌ Pressure and urgency
Fake services create artificial time pressure: "Act now or lose your funds forever!" This is a manipulation tactic. Legitimate investigators understand you need time to make informed decisions.
❌ Vague or inconsistent explanations
If they can't clearly explain their methodology, provide verifiable credentials, or their story keeps changing—walk away.
❌ Overly public testimonials
Be cautious of services displaying video testimonials with victims' faces and full names. Legitimate investigators prioritize client privacy and typically use anonymous reviews or written testimonials. Services showcasing identifiable victims may be desperate for social proof—or fabricating testimonials entirely.
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What Legitimate Services Look Like
✓ Transparent pricing and process
Clear fee structures, written agreements, and realistic timelines. You should understand what you're paying for.
✓ Verifiable credentials
Professional website, business registration, reviews from multiple independent sources. Look for evidence of real casework.
✓ Educational, not pushy
They explain what's possible and what isn't. They help you understand the process without pressuring you to sign immediately.
✓ Professional communication
Proper grammar, professional email addresses (not Gmail/Protonmail), and consistent branding.
✓ They work with law enforcement
Legitimate investigators often coordinate with authorities and can provide documentation for legal proceedings.
💡 Pro Tip
Verify the investigator's location and professional background. They should have a LinkedIn profile showing their work history and credentials. Cross-reference their name with their business registration and online presence.
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Before You Hire Anyone
Research independently
Don't rely on testimonials from their website aloneBook a consultation call
Speak directly with the investigator to assess their expertise and approachVerify credentials
Check business registrations, LinkedIn profiles, professional associations
Get everything in writing
Never proceed based on verbal promises alone
Trust your instincts
If something feels off, it probably is
🔐 Remember
If you're unsure about a service, don't hesitate to ask questions during your consultation. A legitimate investigator will take time to address your concerns and explain their process clearly. Your caution now can prevent a second loss.
Stay safe. Stay vigilant. Verify everything.
