U.S. Prosecutors Seek Forfeiture of $327,000 in USDT, Linked to 'Pig Butchering' Crypto Scam

Odaily News: Federal prosecutors in Massachusetts have recently filed a civil forfeiture lawsuit seeking to recover 327,829.720952 USDT (approximately $327,000), which is allegedly linked to a cryptocurrency scam conducted through a dating application.

The prosecution stated that the investigation began in the fall of 2024, when authorities discovered a Massachusetts resident was suspected of being involved in an "online romance scam." Using the alias "Linda Brown," the suspect established a relationship with the victim over several weeks before claiming to have a cryptocurrency investment opportunity and inducing the victim to transfer funds.

Prosecutors allege that the suspect, under the guise of a "legitimate investment," actually deceived the victim into transferring funds to wallet addresses controlled by the suspect or their accomplices. The victim realized it was a scam only after failing to withdraw the funds.

Law enforcement pointed out that the stolen funds were transferred through multiple cryptocurrency wallets, subsequently converted into USDT, and ultimately used for money laundering transactions.

This case comes as U.S. regulators are strengthening warnings against "romance crypto scams." Previously, the Ohio Federal Prosecutor's Office issued a reminder titled "Cupid Doesn't Ask for Crypto" ahead of Valentine's Day, warning the public to be vigilant against romance investment scams carried out through social media and instant messaging platforms.