The "Script" Scam: When they promise you cheap USDT in another local currency

Greed for better prices in cryptocurrencies is the perfect bait. Thousands of users fall into this sophisticated scheme every year, which combines social engineering with P2P system vulnerabilities, losing everything from small amounts to their entire wallets.

What is the mechanism behind this scam?

The criminal initiates contact through social media, typically Facebook or trading groups, offering USDT at significantly below-market prices. The proposal includes an enticing condition: “Open the transaction in a different market than yours” ( for example, if you reside in Chile, open the order in Colombia).

The user falls into the trap because on P2P platforms like those in the market, switching regional markets is perfectly legal. They start a purchase with a merchant who appears legitimate and is located in that country. This is where manipulation begins.

The scammer instructs: “Copy this code and send it in the chat of the merchant.” What the user doesn’t know is that this “code” is actually a bank account controlled by the criminal or their accomplice. The merchant, seeing the number in the official transaction chat, interprets it as valid payment details and transfers the funds to that fraudulent account.

The consequences of the deception

The buyer never receives anything because the money was diverted. The merchant, believing they have fulfilled the transaction, pressures the user to release the USDT. If they release, they lose the cryptocurrencies. If they refuse, the merchant opens a dispute by presenting the bank transfer receipt as proof of valid payment.

Mathematically, there are always losers: the user loses money or crypto, the merchant is held responsible for a transaction they didn’t properly execute, and the criminal disappears without leaving a significant digital footprint.

Warning signs you should identify

Immediately distrust if someone offers you abnormally low prices in USDT. If they ask you to change your geographic region on the platform. If they insist you use “special codes” or specific account numbers outside the standard protocol. If they mention that “an assistant” will contact you via chat. If the transaction requires multiple unusual steps or verbal instructions.

How to protect yourself in P2P operations

Conduct all your transactions exclusively in your local currency and certified geographic region. Never follow instructions from external sources outside the trading platform. Do not share account numbers, banking codes, or sensitive financial information through the transaction chat. Always verify the merchant’s identity: transaction history, ratings, time on the platform.

If a price seems too attractive, it’s because there is a hidden cost. Security is worth more than any savings.

Spread this information

This type of scam constantly evolves and mainly affects novice operators seeking arbitrage or better rates. If you share this knowledge with other traders, you help reduce potential victims. P2P security education is the responsibility of the entire crypto community.

Protect yourself, stay informed, and warn others.