In the fast-paced world of fintech and cryptocurrency, companies are under constant pressure to grow their brand visibility and customer reach. However, as demand for digital marketing expertise increases, so does the proliferation of scams—especially on platforms like Telegram, where many freelancers promote themselves as “marketing experts” for fintech and crypto projects. Here’s what every business needs to know to stay safe.

The Scam: “Expert” Freelancers with No Real Expertise

Many scammers on Telegram claim to have an extensive portfolio, experience in crypto marketing, and expertise in strategies that promise rapid results. These fraudsters frequently offer:

• Paid promotional services: They may claim partnerships with major industry media outlets or influencers.
• Bot-driven follower boosts: Fake engagement through bots that create a façade of popularity.
• Guaranteed growth and audience acquisition: Promises of substantial growth within unrealistic timeframes.

The Tactics: Building Trust, Then Requesting Payment Upfront

After drawing in potential clients with low rates and enticing offers, scammers often request upfront payment to “initiate the campaign” or “reserve ad space.” Common red flags include:

1. No verifiable track record: Profiles often lack substantial references or have generic, untraceable testimonials.
2. Pressure for quick commitments: Scammers push clients to make payments swiftly to secure “limited spots.”
3. Unprofessional communication: Errors in communication or inconsistency in their claimed credentials and skills.

The Impact: Wasted Budget, Damaged Reputation, and Lost Time

The result of hiring these so-called experts can range from minimal engagement with bot-created followers to significant budget losses and even reputational harm from associations with fake accounts or unauthorized promotions.

Protecting Your Project: What to Look For

To steer clear of scammers, companies should consider the following precautions:

• Thorough Vetting: Request case studies, verify previous work, and seek out reviews from trusted sources.
• Referrals: Working with professionals recommended by reputable partners within the industry can be more reliable.
• Avoid Upfront Payments: If possible, negotiate pay-for-performance or milestone-based payment structures.

By staying vigilant, fintech and crypto projects can avoid these traps and instead work with legitimate marketing experts who can provide real value, transparency, and results. Scammers may be everywhere, but by taking these precautions, your business can stay secure and on the path to authentic growth.