How can I avoid “Gift” scams?
1. How do scammers misuse the “Gift” feature to carry out scams?
Scammers often use social media, emails, SMS, or private messages to promote so-called “mining projects,” “rebate programs,” or “limited-time offers.” They lure users with false promises, claiming that sending a certain amount of crypto through the Gift feature is required to participate and will result in high returns.
Instead of asking users to click suspicious links or provide account credentials, scammers exploit the perceived legitimacy of the Gift feature and induce users to voluntarily transfer funds. For example, they may claim a “gift” is required to activate a rebate or mining reward and promise additional bonuses or tokens in return.
In reality, once the crypto is sent, no rewards are provided and the funds are irreversibly transferred to the scammer. Victims often only realize they have been scammed after noticing that their funds are gone.
2. Why do users mistakenly think their funds were stolen or their account was hacked?
When users send crypto to scammers via the Gift feature, they may not immediately notice anything unusual. Scammers typically disguise the transaction as part of a legitimate activity, making users believe their funds are temporarily invested, locked, or pending rewards.
When no returns are received and the account balance decreases, users may assume their account was hacked. In most cases, however, the funds were voluntarily transferred under false pretenses as part of a scam activity.
How can I avoid “Gift” scams?
1. Stay alert to suspicious investment messages
Be cautious of messages promoting “rebates,” “mining,” guaranteed returns, or limited-time investment opportunities—especially when received through social media, email, or SMS. Legitimate platforms won’t promote investment activities or request fund transfers through private or unofficial channels.
2. Don’t send crypto casually using the “Gift” feature
Although the Gift feature is a legitimate platform function, scammers often misuse it to trick users into transferring funds. Avoid sending crypto unless you fully understand the recipient and purpose. Be especially cautious of activities that require you to send funds first in exchange for rewards.
3. Verify platform activities through official channels
If you receive information about platform promotions or events, always verify it through the official website or app. Official activities won’t require you to act through unknown links, private messages, or third-party platforms.
4. Protect your account security
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA), use a strong and unique password, and change it regularly. Never share your login credentials, QR codes, verification codes, or authorization details with anyone.
5. Watch out for fake or spoofed interfaces
Scammers may use fake pages or apps that closely resemble official platforms to trick users into transferring funds. Always ensure you’re using the official app or website and double-check the URL before performing any actions.
What should I do if I notice suspicious activity in my account?
If you detect unusual transactions or believe you may have fallen victim to a scam, take action immediately:
Contact customer support to report the issue and request an account freeze
Change your password and reset security settings, including 2FA
Review account activity records to check for unauthorized transfers
Report the incident to the platform to help improve scam prevention measures
Note:
OKX will never ask you to perform asset transfers, including buying, selling, withdrawing, or gifting crypto, through private messages. Anyone claiming to be an official staff member or partner who guides you to transfer assets or invest is likely a scammer.
If you believe you’ve already been scammed, contact OKX Assistant immediately for further assistance.