Deribit Warns of Rising Job Scams Targeting Crypto Professionals

Cryptocurrency Options & Futures Exchange Deribit has warned about a growing wave of job scams targeting crypto space professionals. 

The Netherlands-based exchange, which also has a presence in Dubai, took to its X (formerly Twitter) account to alert users about fraudsters impersonating reputable exchanges to lure job seekers with fake employment opportunities on LinkedIn.

⚠️ Scam Alert from Anthony Sweeney, CISO at Deribit

In recent weeks, we’ve noticed a surge in scammers posing as recruiters claiming to work for Deribit (and likely other well-known firms soon). The crypto industry often pioneers the latest fraud tactics, and this scam is no… pic.twitter.com/BHxGxhn2nS

— Deribit (@DeribitOfficial) March 19, 2025

According to Deribit, scammers primarily target senior staff or developers with access to sensitive systems, aiming to extract private data or siphon funds. 

These fraudsters leverage social engineering tactics to manipulate victims, exploiting their job-seeking status to gain trust and access to critical resources. 

The Growing Threat of Crypto Job Scams

Deribit highlighted the deceptive techniques scammers use to ensnare victims, warning that these frauds are becoming increasingly elaborate. 

One common tactic involves offering highly attractive job opportunities with exorbitant salaries. 

This approach tempts job seekers into engaging with scammers while discouraging them from discussing the offer with their current employers, which could otherwise raise suspicions.

Web3’s rapid innovations create more job opportunities, making it easier for scammers to take advantage of individuals who fail to conduct due diligence before engaging with recruiters. 

This trend is exacerbated by the industry’s decentralized nature, where traditional employment verification processes are often bypassed.

FBI and MetaMask Warnings on Crypto Job Scams

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has also sounded the alarm on crypto-related job scams. 

In an article titled “Cryptocurrency Job Scams,” the agency detailed how fraudsters often pose as employees of legitimate companies to recruit victims through social media groups and phishing emails. 

Initially, scammers may pay victims small sums to build credibility, only to later demand large deposits under the pretense of job-related expenses. 

Once victims make these payments, they cannot withdraw their funds, resulting in financial losses.

MetaMask, a leading crypto wallet provider, has also flagged several common job scams identified by its Security Research team. 

These scams include job Ponzi schemes, fake game beta testing roles, fraudulent recruiters conducting fake skills tests, and malicious job offers posted on freelance job sites. 

Some companies also unknowingly recruit individuals from known scam networks, including those based in North Korea.

Protecting Job Seekers from Fraud

In response to the rising threat, Deribit has provided guidance on how job seekers can protect themselves. 

The exchange urges individuals to scrutinize recruiter profiles and verify their authenticity through official company channels. 

If a recruiter’s profile appears suspicious or lacks clear ties to the company they claim to represent, it is a major red flag. 

Deribit also advises job seekers to contact the company’s HR department directly to confirm the recruiter’s identity before engaging further.

The FBI has similarly advised job seekers to exercise caution when evaluating job opportunities, warning against offers that do not require professional references or demand upfront payments in cryptocurrency.