Fraud alerts
Fake police and regulator recovery calls
Verify authority independently before disclosing information or paying anything.
By Block Claim Group Editorial Team · Published 4 October 2026
AI-generated conceptual artwork; not a real case, client, employee or investigation.
The short answer
An official title, badge image or case number can be invented. Recovery fraudsters may claim that police or a regulator has already recovered your funds and needs an administrative payment. ESMA specifically warns against this form of impersonation and says it will not approach you to recover funds for a fee.
What to check and preserve
End the contact and find the organisation's official website or public number yourself. Ask whether the named unit, person and reference are genuine without using a link from the caller. Preserve the number, sender address, documents and requested beneficiary details. A caller knowing your loss details does not establish legitimacy.
Limits and important distinctions
Real reporting and legal procedures differ by country. A verification check should not require a password, seed phrase, bank login or transfer to a 'safe account'. If personal information or money has already been shared, report that fact promptly to the relevant provider and local authorities.
Checklist
- Verify the organisation through an independent channel.
- Never transfer funds to a caller's safe account.
- Do not disclose login or wallet secrets.
- Preserve the impersonation evidence.
This article is general educational information, not legal, financial or tax advice. Every situation differs, and no outcome, including recovery of funds, can be guaranteed. Consider speaking with a qualified professional and your local authorities.
AI-assisted educational content based on the linked official sources. It is not individual legal, financial or tax advice. Rules and provider procedures may change.
Written by the Block Claim Group Editorial Team under our editorial policy.
