Tuna Chain is a modular Layer 2 solution that functions on Bitcoin while also integrating with Ethereum. Learn more about how it works in this article.

 is rightfully known for its security through its use of 

 offers greater versatility. Until recently, blockchain projects had to choose between the two. Now, however, a hybrid solution is available that blends the benefits of both of these leading blockchains and takes a bold leap into the future.

 that functions on Bitcoin while also integrating with Ethereum.

) is strongly rooted in elevating the user experience (UX). Bitcoin is the most trusted cryptocurrency, largely due to the recognized strength of its security protocols. However, while it excels in security, it lacks the versatility that ultimately fosters innovation. In this regard, Ethereum is viewed as a superior blockchain. 

Tuna Chain’s modular Layer 2 solution works on Bitcoin through a 

 hybrid layer while offering Ethereum functionality. It uses 

-powered modularity to minimize transaction costs. At the same time, this modularity improves both trust and efficiency. Tuna Chain currently supports Solana, Ethereum and Bitcoin transactions. It works with Bybit, Phantom, MetaMask, UniSat Wallet and OKX Wallet.

Tuna Chain is a new project that was established by three unknown individuals, known under the names of Tuna Nigiri, Tuna Sushi and Tuna Sashimi. Each team member brings their unique experiences and knowledge with blockchain, cryptography and 

 to move Tuna Chain forward. Tuna Chain is financially supported by BSC News, Normie Capital, Serafund, ArkStream Capital, Cogitent Ventures, MH Ventures and other angel investors. After its Ocean Festival and Ocean Trio, Tuna Chain now has over 1.3 million wallets connected on the Tuna Chain Testnet, with a total 

The purpose of Tuna Chain is to bridge the gap between Bitcoin and Ethereum. Although Bitcoin’s chain boasts superlative security, it lacks the versatility that Ethereum’s 

 provides. As a hybrid Layer 2 solution, Tuna Chain’s primary goal is to blend the two. By doing so, its founders want to push the envelope on the future of blockchains and provide a better UX.

Tuna Chain’s functionality is based on three core features: the Toro native 

, Celestia-powered modularity and a hybrid ZK-OP layer. With the Toro stablecoin, users can purchase new digital assets through the overcollateralization of their BTC supply. Meanwhile, Celestia-powered modularity improves data availability, and the ZK-OP hybrid layer executes smart contracts with fast, secure transactions.

Rollup Solutions and Operational Mechanism of Bitcoin Layer 2

Layer 2 solutions similar to those found on Ethereum enhance Bitcoin's scalability, using technologies such as 

 (ZK). Tuna Chain enhances Bitcoin's transaction capacity by integrating optimistic rollup technology into its Layer 2 framework.

Securing Native Assets on Bitcoin: Leveraging Taproot's Upgrade

 upgrade into the Bitcoin network marks a significant advancement in the security of its native assets. This update incorporates advanced cryptographic techniques, such as Schnorr Signatures, MAST and Tapscript. To further secure these assets, Tuna Chain has implemented a multisignature security model and is exploring the addition of external validators to its network security protocols.

Tuna Chain processes transactions through a detailed system that begins with the precise arrangement and execution of transactions. These are then reliably recorded on 

's data availability layer and conclusively verified on the Bitcoin blockchain. Verifiers are essential to the chain's integrity, quickly producing fraudproofs to address any transaction discrepancies and ensure the network remains secure and reliable.

Tuna Chain is a next-level Layer 2 solution that moves blockchain into the future. Each of its core features provides unique benefits to support a superior UX. 

Tuna Chain uses Celestia-powered modularity to optimize its Layer 2 functionality. Specifically, this modularity is supported by Layer 2 data management that enhances trust, improves efficiency and reduces transaction fees.

The ZK-OP Layer is Tuna Chain’s hybrid Layer 2. This layer utilizes a dual-phase architecture that integrates Ethereum’s benefits with those of Bitcoin. By doing so, it empowers smart contracts and accelerates secure transactions.

 is a grand opening event celebrating Tuna Chain’s launch. During this grand opening, the first round of TUN tokens will be distributed. Distribution cap for this initial release is based on 

 growth driven by the community, and could range between 2% and 21%. The token supply increases by 2% as each new milestone is achieved.

, the setup experience for new community members, consists of Calm Waters, Whimsical Tides and Majestic Depths. With Calm Waters, new users can receive 60 points for following Tuna Chain on social media and linking their wallet. Additional points are available by referring friends to Tuna Chain. Whimsical Tides, the testnet phase, is still in development along with Majestic Depths.

In the first quarter of 2024, Tuna Chain successfully completed several milestones, including the launch of the Tuna Testnet — Alpha, Ocean Trio Points campaign, Ocean Festival (which highlights the TVL) and the rollout of the TunaChain Explorer. 

Moving into Q2 2024, progress is ongoing with significant developments. Tuna Chain’s team is currently deploying an optimistic rollup (OP)-based Mainnet, establishing a native bridge from Bitcoin to the Tuna Mainnet, launching a Mainnet decentralized exchange (

), and developing a modular data availability (DA) layer.

Tuna Chain functions with three primary tokens: TORO, TUNA and WOOG. Each serves a different and integral role.

TORO, Tuna Chain’s native stablecoin, helps users transform their BTC into their choice of high-yield digital assets. This is accomplished seamlessly and with full transactional stability. The user doesn’t need to liquidate the BTC to complete the transaction.

 of Tuna Chain, is used for various purposes, such as revenue generation, funding builders and contributors, benefiting token holders, incentivizing users and community members, and promoting community engagement within the Tuna Chain ecosystem.

TUNA has a total token supply of 210,000,000.

 token that acts as the primary ticket into the Tuna Chain ecosystem. Only 200 of 1,000 available WOOG tokens were distributed at the BRC-20 Launchpad event. The remaining WOOG will be distributed only when they’re activated by external forces.

Looking to get your hands on the TUNA token? Bybit will soon offer it via our 

In the meantime, you can also purchase TUNA through 

WOOG tokens grant access to the Tuna Chain ecosystem. Of the total supply of 1,000 tokens, only 200 are currently scheduled to be released. These tokens are exclusively available through the 

. There’s a purchase limit of one WOOG token. While 800 WOOG tokens will remain, they’re sealed, and their release isn’t scheduled. You must have an active Bybit account with a funded wallet to participate in the event. 

TUNA tokens play a fundamental role in governance of the Tuna Chain’s unique hybrid Layer 2 chain, designed to deliver the benefits offered by both Bitcoin and Ethereum. Tuna Chain is presented as the future of blockchain, and is poised to change the blockchain landscape in exciting ways, which could place a premium on TUNA tokens. 

As an investment, TUNA should be purchased conscientiously because the value of the tokens will decrease when additional tokens are released, even for a short period of time. In addition, all cryptocurrencies are speculative in nature, with a risk of partial or complete loss. Therefore, 

 cryptocurrencies before making an investment.

Tuna Chain is a hybrid Layer 2 solution that provides a much-needed service in the blockchain world. By bridging the gap between Bitcoin and Ethereum, it allows users to enjoy the best of both worlds. In doing so, it has the potential to move the dial forward significantly in blockchain technology. Moving forward, Tuna Chain is a platform worthy of attention.

Intermediate

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Tuna Chain (TUNA): Reinventing Bitcoin With a ZK-OP Approach

Notable Ethereum Spot ETF applications have come from high-profile issuers that received approval for Bitcoin Spot ETFs earlier this year. Learn more here.

The cryptocurrency landscape could be on the brink of a major shake-up as several Ethereum spot exchange-traded fund (

) applications await regulatory approval. These financial instruments promise to bridge the gap between traditional investment markets and the fast-growing world of digital assets, offering investors a regulated and accessible means for gaining exposure to 

This article explores the top pending Ethereum Spot ETF applications, exploring their significance, potential impact on the market and implications for the broader adoption of cryptocurrencies.

What Is an Ethereum Spot ETF Application?

An Ethereum Spot ETF application is a filing submitted to regulatory bodies, such as the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), to list an exchange-traded fund that tracks the price of Ether (ETH), allowing investors to gain exposure to the cryptocurrency without directly holding it.

How Does an Ethereum Spot ETF Application Work?

An Ethereum Spot ETF application is a formal request by a financial institution to gain regulatory approval to offer a financial product that tracks the price of Ether (ETH), the second-largest cryptocurrency and the token of the Ethereum network, in real time. 

Investors can participate in the ETF by purchasing shares through their brokerage accounts. This way, they can gain exposure to Ether's price movements without the complexities associated with directly buying or holding the cryptocurrency. The ETF provider assumes responsibility for securely holding the Ether, managing the fund's day-to-day operations and ensuring ongoing compliance with regulatory requirements.

Current Ethereum Spot ETF Application Landscape

, Fidelity, VanEck and ARK 21Shares have all thrown their hats into the ring by submitting applications to the SEC for approval. These particular issuers have previously applied to run Bitcoin Spot ETFs that are currently approved and trading.

However, the SEC has pushed back on the recent Ethereum Spot ETF applications, prolonging the decision-making process. They've also sought public feedback in order to gauge whether the arguments supporting the approval of Bitcoin Spot ETFs are applicable to Ethereum Spot ETFs as well.

Anticipation has continued to build with the approach of the final deadlines for the SEC's decisions, set for between May 23 and Jul 5, 2024 for various applicants. The SEC's review process involves assessing factors such as the potential for market manipulation and the resemblance between Ethereum spot and futures exchange-traded products.

The outcome of these applications holds significant weight, as it could shape the future landscape of cryptocurrency investment vehicles and play an important role in driving broader adoption of Ethereum within traditional financial markets. Investors and observers alike are closely monitoring these developments, recognizing their potential to influence the trajectory of both Ethereum and the wider crypto market.

Top High-Profile Ethereum Spot ETF Applications

Several high-profile financial institutions have applied for Ethereum Spot ETFs, reflecting a growing interest in cryptocurrency investment products. Following is a list of some notable contenders.

BlackRock, a global investment giant and the world’s largest asset manager, submitted its 

 Ethereum Trust, in November 2023. However, the SEC postponed its decision to late January 2024 and again to March. The SEC is currently seeking public comment on the application, particularly concerning Ethereum’s susceptibility to fraud, and has delayed its decision until Jun 11, 2024.

Franklin Templeton, another major player in the investment world, 

 for an Ethereum Spot ETF in February 2024, making it the latest contender to join several other firms in the race. The SEC has delayed the deadline to June 2024 to rule on the firm’s application. If approved, the fund will be listed on the Chicago Board Options Exchange as Franklin Ethereum ETF.

Known for its ETFs and mutual funds, investment management firm VanEck has expressed doubts about the SEC's approval of its Ethereum Spot ETF application, 

 in July 2021. Although the SEC’s decision is expected in May 2024, VanEck’s CEO has voiced his skepticism of approval by the May 23, 2024 deadline, citing the regulators' ominous silence. Notably, VanEck holds the distinction of being the first investment management firm to file an ETH Spot ETF application in the United States.

21Shares specializes in cryptocurrency exchange-traded products (

), while ARK Invest focuses on thematic investing. The two firms 

 for the ARK 21Shares Ethereum ETF in September 2023, with the SEC expected to decide by May 24, 2024. The application has been 

 to include a cash-creation model, and has proposed plans to stake a portion of the ETF’s Ether for generating additional income.

A global asset manager focused on cryptocurrencies, Hashdex 

 with the SEC in September 2023 to list and trade shares of the 

 its decision on the application, with a verdict expected by late May 2024.

Grayscale is the world’s largest digital currency asset manager, with a range of investment products that provides exposure to cryptocurrencies and the digital currency asset class. The firm 

 its Grayscale Ethereum Trust into an Ether Spot ETF in October 2023. The SEC extended the review period, setting a new deadline for June 2024. 

Invesco, an investment management firm, has partnered with Galaxy Digital, a diversified financial services firm, to create a 

 for an Ethereum Spot ETF to be named the Invesco Galaxy Ethereum ETF. The SEC's decision, expected in December 2023, has been 

Fidelity Investments is a major financial services corporation with a global presence and millions of customers. Fidelity first filed for an Ethereum Spot ETF in November 2023. It later 

 its application in March 2024 to include ETH staking, which would allow investors to earn additional income from staking rewards. The SEC has set a deadline of May 23, 2024 to approve or deny the application.

What Could Happen If an Ethereum Spot ETF Application Is Approved?

The approval of an Ethereum Spot ETF application holds significant implications for the cryptocurrency market.

Approval of an Ethereum Spot ETF could mark a significant milestone for the crypto market. It would greatly improve Ethereum's accessibility, bolster market confidence and potentially drive up Ether’s price. In addition, such an approval would represent a new milestone in cryptocurrency adoption, providing investors with a regulated and easy avenue for investing in Ethereum. Nevertheless, regulatory hurdles and market volatility are variables that could influence the timing and magnitude of the approval of the pending applications.

ethereum spot etf applications featured image

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An Overview of the Top Pending Ethereum Spot ETF Applications

Bybit Arbitrage is a trading tool that simplifies arbitrage trading by capitalizing on funding rate and price differences.

If you're seeking consistent returns with minimal risk, Bybit Arbitrage is the perfect ally.

 This robust tool empowers you to generate regular profits with minimal risks by capitalizing on price disparities across different markets. Its user-friendly interface lets you easily spot and exploit these differences, so that you can execute flawless arbitrage trading in the crypto market with confidence. Read on to learn how Bybit Arbitrage makes arbitrage trading an effortless way for you to achieve low-risk gains.

 is the buying and selling of the same or similar asset(s) at the same time across different markets to earn from slight price deviations. This act of purchasing an asset at a fixed price — while simultaneously selling it at a higher price — allows a trader to instantly make profits without any risks. 

While arbitrage trading has long been a staple in traditional financial markets, such as stock and forex, the advent of crypto trading has propelled arbitrage trading to new heights — thanks to the heightened volatility of the crypto market. Additionally, unlike traditional stock markets, crypto markets are traded 24/7, offering more opportunities for arbitrage traders to reap profits from the price gaps across exchanges and markets. 

 across exchanges or within a single exchange. Keep in mind that if you opt to arbitrage trade across different platforms, accessing your profits may prove to be complex, due to the need to transfer your assets between the exchanges, which can take up to several days to complete. On the other hand, arbitrage trading on a single platform is more straightforward — but more competitive as well.

There are multiple arbitrage trading strategies, but the most common ones in the crypto market include funding rates arbitrage, spot-futures arbitrage and futures arbitrage. 

Funding rates arbitrage allows traders to profit from variations in funding rates between 

 contracts. In contrast, spot-futures arbitrage enables traders to profit from price disparities between the spot and 

 for the same asset. Meanwhile, futures arbitrage involves profiting from price discrepancies between futures contracts with different expiration dates.

Bybit Arbitrage is a trading tool that helps traders identify arbitrage trading opportunities in two ways: funding rate and spread. 

The user-friendly interface organizes trading pairs based on either funding rates or spreads in different markets, so that traders can easily spot disparities in funding rate or price across the markets at a glance. 

Bybit Arbitrage is exclusively available to 

 mode. It facilitates arbitrage trading for USDT Perpetual, USDC Perpetual and USDC Futures contracts, thereby allowing you to enjoy arbitrage trading opportunities between USDT 

Spot pairs and USDT Perpetual pairs, or USDC Spot pairs and USDC Perpetual/Futures pairs. 

The Funding Rate Arbitrage feature exploits differences in funding rates between the Spot and Perpetual/Futures markets on the Bybit exchange. With the Funding Rate feature, traders can earn funding fees while simultaneously managing their positions in order to minimize potential losses and maximize gains through positive and negative arbitrage strategies.

Funding rates for the different trading pairs are listed in descending order. This helps traders to easily leverage the interest rate differential between Spot and Perpetual/Futures contracts.

The Funding Rate feature also allows you to 

 orders (with the same amount, but in different directions) in both Spot and Perpetual/Futures, which enables you to earn funding fees while mitigating potential losses (with potential gains).

holders in Futures/Perpetual contracts pay short position holders. You can leverage this situation by executing a positive arbitrage, which involves

 buying a Spot pair and taking a short position in 

Perpetual to earn steady funding fees. Alternatively, if the funding fee is negative, short position holders pay long position holders. In this case, you would perform a negative arbitrage by shorting a Spot pair and going long in a 

The Spread Arbitrage feature helps traders capitalize on price discrepancies between different markets for the same cryptocurrency asset. With this feature, you can easily compare the market prices of an asset traded across various trading pairs and contracts. While Spread Arbitrage may be similar to spot-futures arbitrage, it offers more arbitrage opportunities since it covers a broader range of markets, unlike spot-futures arbitrage, which targets specific markets

With Spread Arbitrage, the aim is to profit from the eventual price convergence as you buy the crypto asset at a lower price in one market (e.g., Spot) and sell it at a higher price in another market (e.g., Futures). 

As the futures price will eventually align with the Spot price when the contract expires, you’ll be able to take advantage of the simultaneous price disparity for the same asset.

In order to trade with Bybit Arbitrage, you’ll first need to 

. Currently, Bybit Arbitrage is exclusively accessible via the 

 for the web version, which will be launched soon!

Bybit Arbitrage offers multiple advantages.

Bybit Arbitrage is a powerful tool for traders seeking low-risk gains in the volatile crypto market. With its intuitive interface and exclusive features, traders can effectively leverage funding rate and price differences to maximize profits while minimizing risks. Bybit Arbitrage offers diverse benefits that make arbitrage trading more accessible and profitable than ever before.

Beginner

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How to Use Bybit Arbitrage to Achieve Funding Rate and Price Difference Arbitrage

An Ethereum Spot ETF is an exchange-traded fund that tracks the real-time price of Ether and allows investment through traditional stock markets. Learn more.

Earlier this year, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) gave the green light to a number of Bitcoin Spot exchange-traded funds (

), sparking optimism that similar approval might be extended to Ethereum Spot ETFs. Adding to the excitement, news of Ethereum Spot ETF approval in Asia’s first region has heightened anticipation for a potential approval and launch in the U.S. However, despite the buzz, some industry observers remain skeptical. This article explores the potential impact of Ethereum Spot ETF approval on the broader crypto market.

An Ethereum Spot ETF is an exchange-traded fund that tracks the real-time price of 

 and allows investment through traditional stock markets. It offers investors a way to invest in Ether without having to actually buy or hold the asset itself.

An Ethereum Spot ETF operates by pooling investor funds to purchase Ether, which is held in reserves by the ETF.

Rather than navigating the complexities of 

 and exchanges, investors buy shares of the ETF through regular brokerage accounts, just as they would with traditional stocks. These shares represent a stake in the Ether held by the ETF, providing a simple and regulated way to own Ethereum indirectly.

In order to create ETF shares, authorized participants — usually financial institutions — purchase Ether in exchange for ETF shares of equal value, which are then sold onto the market. An authorized participant can also redeem shares by buying enough ETF shares and exchanging them for Spot Ether and taking those shares away from the market.

As a result, the price of ETF shares tends to fluctuate in line with Ethereum's Spot market price. If it didn’t, there would be an 

 opportunity to profit from any mispricings in the ETF price. However, it’s still theoretically possible for the ETF to trade at different prices simply because of supply-and-demand factors.

ETFs as securities are regulated by the SEC, so an Ethereum Spot ETF provides a regulated product that investors can purchase. By contrast, Spot Ether is being investigated by the SEC to determine whether it should be classified as a security, and currently lacks regulatory clarity. 

This setup offers numerous benefits for investors. It simplifies the investment process, allowing anyone with a brokerage account to invest in Ethereum without setting up a crypto exchange account or managing storage. This can save time and give some investors greater peace of mind. An ETF structure also provides the regulatory clarity that institutional investors need, which can enhance liquidity and trading volumes.

Security is paramount in the realm of cryptocurrency, and the ETF provider takes it seriously. To safeguard Ether holdings, ETF providers employ a combination of 

 and insured custodial services. As a result, they could potentially minimize the risk of theft or loss that individual crypto investors may encounter.

The Ethereum Spot ETF bridges traditional finance (TradFi) and the exciting (but still growing) cryptocurrency space. It offers the security and ease of trading associated with traditional financial markets while opening up investment opportunities in Ethereum for a broader audience.

Both excitement and regulatory scrutiny characterize the current landscape of Ethereum Spot ETFs. Major financial institutions like 

 and Fidelity have submitted applications for these ETFs to the SEC. Still, decisions have been delayed, with the next 

If applicants begin updating their filings by April, this may indicate they’re incorporating feedback from the regulator, which could be interpreted as a positive sign. However, a lack of updates to filings could indicate that the SEC isn’t maintaining the same level of discussions with issuers that led to its 

Another challenge is that the SEC is still investigating whether Ether should be classified as a security, especially since it transferred its consensus mechanism to 

. Earning rewards through staking could meet criteria that determine whether an asset is a security. Ethereum also provides a foundation for 

 (DeFi), which could add to the complexity of the review. 

Analysts' opinions vary regarding the likelihood of ETH ETF approval. One Bloomberg analyst, for instance, 

 chance of approval by May. However, the SEC's recent silence might hint at a less favorable outcome.

The approval of Ethereum Spot ETFs is eagerly awaited because it could mirror the impact of Bitcoin Spot ETF approval, which led to an influx of capital in the market. It would mark a pivotal milestone, likely to attract increased investment and further validate cryptocurrency. The crypto community is closely monitoring these developments, as the coming months will be crucial in shaping the future of Ethereum investment opportunities.

 was recently given to the first Spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs in one of the Asian regions. This landmark decision positions the city as a trailblazer in the Asian financial landscape, embracing the integration of popular cryptocurrencies into mainstream investment avenues.

This milestone has sparked excitement within the crypto community, indicating a positive reception toward digital assets in that region. Analysts believe this move could set a precedent for other jurisdictions to follow, potentially leading to broader acceptance and recognition of cryptocurrencies as a legitimate asset class.

These newly approved ETFs are expected to attract a wave of fresh investors — both retail and institutional — by offering a regulated and familiar investment option for exposure to cryptocurrencies. This growth of interest could increase stability in the crypto markets, possibly influencing the price movements of Bitcoin and Ethereum in the region.

The timing of this approval is noteworthy, considering that the U.S. could also be on the cusp of approval of an Ethereum Spot ETF. If this proactive approach inspires other financial centers beyond the U.S. to consider similar approvals, it will palpably contribute to the global expansion and maturation of the cryptocurrency market.

Current Impact of Ethereum Spot ETF Applications on the Crypto Market

The buzz surrounding Ethereum Spot ETF applications is noticeably affecting the crypto market, particularly Ethereum's price and overall sentiment. Submission of new ETF applications to the SEC has coincided with an 

, pushing it to around $3,700. This uptick reflects the market's optimism and positive sentiment regarding the potential for easier access to Ethereum. However, the market has exhibited some volatility as well, with Ether dropping over 14% in a week in early April. 

Despite these fluctuations, there's a general expectation that ETF developments would significantly impact Ethereum's price dynamics, similar to what was observed with the recent Bitcoin Spot ETF approvals. Moreover, the recent approval of cryptocurrency ETFs has further fueled optimism and positive expectations for increased investment inflows and a broader recognition of cryptocurrencies.

To sum up, the current impact of Ethereum Spot ETF applications on the crypto market is marked by heightened anticipation along with some volatility. Ethereum's price is responding to changes in the regulatory landscape and the potential for broader adoption of cryptocurrency-based investment products.

What Will It Mean if an Ethereum Spot ETF Application Is Approved?

The approval of an Ethereum Spot ETF application by the SEC would mark a significant milestone for the cryptocurrency market, especially for Ethereum. Following are some of the potential benefits.

Drawing parallels to the earlier Bitcoin Spot ETF approvals, some pundits expect an initial surge in Ethereum's price following the expected announcement, reflecting renewed confidence and interest in Ether as an asset. Over the long term, Ethereum Spot ETFs could contribute to growth and stability, similar to the impact that Bitcoin Spot ETFs have had on BTC’s price.

However, there are key differences to consider. The SEC's cautious stance on Ethereum — notably because of its PoS consensus mechanism — could influence the approval process and subsequent market reactions. In addition, Ethereum's unique ecosystem, including its role in DeFi and 

, could lead to different market responses as compared to those following the Bitcoin Spot ETF approvals.

The potential approval of Ethereum Spot ETFs is a crucial turning point for the crypto market, promising easier access, increased investment and greater legitimacy. Although short-term price fluctuations may occur, the long-term effects could echo the positive growth recently witnessed with Bitcoin Spot ETFs, promoting a more mature investment environment for Ethereum.

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Ethereum Spot ETF Approval: Its Impact on Crypto Markets

Bybit Learn

Investing

Crypto investing can be an exciting affair. As interest in cryptocurrencies rises worldwide, however, an increasing number of scammers are targeting the industry. We go through some shocking crypto scams, and the lessons to be learnt from them.

 (DeFi) has experienced tremendous growth in recent years, with crypto becoming an important part of many investment portfolios.

However, the increase in crypto adoption has also drawn unwanted attention from a malicious group of opportunists: scammers. From 2020 to 2021, losses from crypto-related scams rose 79%, with 

Such scams have caused investors to lose not only billions of dollars but also their trust in the industry. In addition, these schemes have evoked feelings of doubt and fear, dissuading potential investors from making their first crypto investments.

This article explains the various types of crypto scams and provides examples of each one — with tips on how to avoid getting scammed in the first place.

Crypto “scams” refer to attempts by individuals or companies to access users' private information, such as their security codes, or deceive unsuspecting people into sending their crypto to a compromised digital wallet. They come in many different forms, on which we’ll elaborate below.

Crypto scams can be compartmentalized into two main categories:

Despite this broad categorization, there are also specific types of scams that cryptocurrency users have been experiencing. The following are the main types of scams in the crypto industry.

 scams involve a group of insiders using messaging apps or social media in order to plant rumors that a renowned mogul is supporting the digital currency in question. The aim of this setup is to lure investors into purchasing the crypto, drive up the price, and sell their stake — thus causing the value of the currency to plummet.

public purchases all of the cryptocurrency (often newly issued, with very little trading history), the insiders start selling —or “dumping” — the crypto at high prices. This move sparks a steep sell-off and a resultant profit at the expense of the duped masses.

Phishing is a common scam in cryptocurrency. Just as with pump-and-dump, phishing isn’t restricted to digital currency. In the world of cryptocurrency, phishing means deceiving victims in order to get them to reveal sensitive details like passwords and 

Phishing scams often take place via email, with scammers posing as an authority and asking for users' credentials. These scams are also widespread on various social media platforms.

As evocative as its name is, the consequences of “pig butchering” are very serious for its victims.

The pig butchering scam usually takes place on online dating websites. The scammer sets an attractive profile picture to attract the "pig” (victim), and then "fattens” them up over a period of time through online messaging. As the victim grows closer to the perpetrator, they begin to trust the scammer more.

Eventually, the scammer informs the victim about huge gains that they’ve supposedly made in the cryptocurrency market, and advises the victim to follow along in some of their investments. Initially, these investments seem to pay off handsomely on paper, but the money's gone as soon as it's sent. The scammer uses phony sites, duping the victim into shelling out bigger sums of money to the perpetrator’s fake account.

When the victim tries to withdraw their money, their efforts are in vain. As the "pig" — who is now fattened for slaughter — they’re left empty-handed.

The pig slaughtering scam is believed to have originated in China, and is known for its relatively long duration.

Ponzi schemes are named after the notorious 1920s swindler, 

. The basic idea of the scam hasn’t changed for over a century.

Here's how it works: A crooked broker proposes a surefire investment with guaranteed, lavish returns. Their pitch may involve a secretive strategy — or, in this case, a 

In the beginning, the idea looks legit — your account balance keeps rising, and you might be able to withdraw some amount of cash. In reality, however, the crook pockets most of the money, issues phony paperwork to cover up the ruse, and uses cash from early investors to pay a little to the new ones.

As more investors come on board, the scammer finds it increasingly hard to sustain the ruse. By the time the scheme collapses, your money is long gone.

 collected an estimated $17 billion from nearly 5,000 investors before his fraud fell apart in 2008. Almost $3 billion was never recovered.

 is a crypto scam wherein a cryptocurrency's promoters pump up a new coin to boost its price, after which they disappear with the funds. The investors are then left with a valueless token that has zero fundamentals and no future.

A rug pull often doesn't allow a non-insider owner to sell their token, as it’s coded in a manner that allows only insiders to exit.

Airdrop scams are prominent in decentralized finance (DeFi). They involve a phenomenon in crypto called a token 

 as a reward for carrying out specific actions on 

While legitimate airdropping of tokens is typically done to start and grow a grassroots community, airdrop scams are also doing the rounds.

Here's how it works: An entity airdrops a token that appears to have value into your wallet. “When you try to exchange that airdropped token for a more well-known token, you give the protocol more permissions than you realize, allowing the hacker to access all the assets in your wallet," says 

, COO at Stacked, a crypto investment startup. Once that happens, your wallet is likely to be swept clean within minutes or even seconds.

In the realm of financial transactions, the 

 (APP) scam is a growing concern. This type of fraud involves the victim being deceived into willingly making a payment to an account controlled by a scammer. The key point to note in an authorized push payment scam is that the transaction is authorized, or perceived to be authorized, by the victim, making it difficult to reverse and recover the funds once the scam has been executed.

The deceptive nature of an authorized push payment scam lies in its exploitation of trust and manipulation of information. Fraudsters may pose as legitimate entities such as banks, solicitors, or even government departments, convincing victims that they are making a secure payment for a genuine reason. The victims, believing they are conducting a standard transaction, authorize the payment, only to discover later that they have been duped and their money has been sent to the scammers.

The growing prevalence of authorized push payment scams reflects the sophistication and adaptability of modern fraudsters. As technology advances and financial transactions become increasingly digital, these scams are becoming more complex and harder to detect. Measures are being taken to mitigate the risks associated with APP scams, including enhanced security protocols and customer education. However, the ever-evolving tactics employed by scammers necessitate constant vigilance and proactive measures from both financial institutions and consumers. While efforts are ongoing to combat these scams, it remains crucial for individuals to be vigilant when authorizing any payment, especially those conducted online.

Scammers set up bogus celebrity accounts on 

 to deceive devoted fans. These scammers then reach out to the star’s followers and ask for money under various pretexts: 

Another popular scamming tactic involves the use of a phony livestream. The scammer's fake celebrity account features a video taken from the star’s real social feed, with a message promising a hefty cash prize to the first, say, 500 or 1,000 people who identify something hidden in an optical illusion or comment with a specific phrase. Respondents to such prize offers then receive a direct message requesting their crypto wallet keys and other personal data to facilitate the supposed payment. With the information collected, the scammer accesses and steals the victim's crypto assets.

7 Crypto Scams That Actually Happened So Far

Grab Up to 5,000 USDT in Rewards

Grab Up to 5,000 USDT in Rewards