Japan police probe cryptocurrency investment scams that duped two women of over ¥1.8 million

Police in Japan are investigating two separate cryptocurrency investment frauds that targeted women in Awara City and Fukuoka. In Awara, a woman in her 50s was lured via Instagram and LINE to invest in crypto, eventually sending the equivalent of about ¥5.3 million after being promised that “¥5 million will become ¥10 million in one year.”

In Fukuoka, a 65‑year‑old part‑time worker was contacted through social media by a man claiming to be Korean. After gaining her trust, he directed her to purchase crypto and transfer about ¥12.8 million to a prescribed address, also sending ¥300,000 to a personal bank account. Police warn that such “guaranteed‑profit” schemes are fraudulent and urge victims to seek advice before sending money.