NH Attorney General Warns of Cryptocurrency Scams After $22M in 2024 Losses

September 15, 2025

By: Scanner Alerts Media Group

Attorney General John M. Formella issued a consumer alert warning New Hampshire residents to be vigilant as cryptocurrency scams continue to target Granite Staters; in 2024 alone, 547 residents reported losing more than $22 million to scams involving Bitcoin and other digital assets.

“Cryptocurrencies can seem exciting, but they also present opportunities for fraudsters to steal money quickly across borders,” said Attorney General Formella. “New Hampshire consumers need to be cautious and understand the warning signs before sending money or investing in digital assets.”

Schemes described in the alert include: impersonating tech support, government or law enforcement officials, and celebrities; long-term trust-building through fake romantic relationships before requesting money or suggesting investments; claims that a loved one is in urgent need of funds; fake investment opportunities; and scam contacts on Telegram and WhatsApp by individuals posing as exchange support staff. The alert notes that scammers exploit the pseudonymous, irreversible, and borderless nature of cryptocurrencies and references “grandparent” scams and “Pig Butchering” schemes.

The New Hampshire Department of Justice Consumer Protection and Antitrust Bureau issued guidance today with tips for spotting scams, safely conducting transactions, and reporting incidents. Residents who have been targeted are advised to contact their local police department, report to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov, and reach the NH DOJ Consumer Protection and Antitrust Bureau at (603) 271-3641, DOJ-CPB@doj.nh.gov, or file a complaint online at https://www.doj.nh.gov/consumer/complaints/index.htm.

The Consumer Protection and Antitrust Bureau enforces the New Hampshire Consumer Protection Act and works to protect residents from deceptive, unfair, and fraudulent business practices. More information is available at https://www.doj.nh.gov/citizens/consumer-protection-antitrust-bureau.

Credit: New Hampshire Department of Justice, Office of the Attorney General