The evolving crypto scams in Africa have spurred a global cryptocurrency exchange, Binance, to educate its users on how to protect them from losing their hard-earned money to fraudsters.
In a statement, Binance said it was committed to working with African regulators to promote safe, compliant crypto access, urging its users to always avoid unlicensed services that could expose them to unnecessary legal or financial risks.
The firm is saying this amid the growing adoption of digital assets on the continent, noting it is more important than ever for users to only trust official Binance channels for information, updates, and support.
It stressed that scammers are using increasingly sophisticated methods, including AI-driven deepfakes and fake websites, to mislead users, encouraging its community to stay informed, secure, and vigilant by following essential safety practices.
“Staying safe in the world of cryptocurrency requires vigilance, education, and common sense. By understanding how scams work and using trusted tools and official channels, Ethiopian and African users can enjoy crypto securely and confidently,” Binance’s Africa Compliance/MLRO, Samukele Mkhize, stated.
It listed these important tips to protect users on its platform;
Be Cautious of Unsolicited Messages
One of the biggest red flags is receiving unsolicited messages from someone claiming to be from a cryptocurrency platform like Binance. No legitimate company will ever contact you directly to ask for money, personal details, or investment advice. Binance will never call you to request funds or account details. Always be sceptical of unsolicited offers, especially those that come with pressure to act quickly.
Use Only Official Binance Channels
Before making any financial decisions or taking action, double-check the information through official channels, including its official website, the verified Binance app via Google Play or App Store, Binance’s official social media profiles and local Telegram communities, and Binance Academy for educational content.
Educate Yourself on Cryptocurrency
A big part of staying safe is having a basic understanding of how cryptocurrencies and exchanges like Binance work. The more educated you are about the crypto world, the less likely you are to fall victim to scams. Binance Academy offers resources that explain the fundamentals of digital assets, blockchain technology, and safe trading practices.
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off, it probably is. Scammers often create a sense of urgency, pushing you to make fast decisions or share personal information. A legitimate company will never rush you into making a financial decision. Take your time, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to step back and evaluate the situation.
Use Strong Security Measures
Ensure that your crypto accounts are protected by strong passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA). This adds an extra layer of protection to your accounts, helping to keep your assets secure. Never share your private keys, passwords, or login information with anyone.
Be Aware of Deepfakes and AI-Generated Content
Scammers are increasingly using AI and deepfake technology to impersonate people, including executives from companies like Binance. These deep fakes can be very convincing, but remember that no real company representative will ask you to send money or invest in a project through video calls or social media DMs.
Understand the Role of Crypto Platforms
It’s important to know that cryptocurrency platforms like Binance are tools for buying, selling, and managing digital assets. These platforms provide access to the crypto space, but they are not financial advisors. They don’t offer investment advice or guarantee returns. If anyone claiming to be from a crypto platform offers investment advice or asks for money, it’s likely a scam.
Report Suspicious Activity
See something off? Report it immediately through Binance Support (https://apo-opa.co/4fvnp7T) and alert local law enforcement if needed.
Keep Your Personal Information Private
Finally, always be mindful of the information you share online. Scammers often target individuals who share excessive personal information or are overly trusting online. Be especially careful with your online presence, especially on social media.