- TRM Labs identified crypto scams targeting FIFA World Cup fans months before kickoff.
- World Cup-themed crypto scams have received less than $1,700 so far.
- Researchers identified a $1,562 Polygon scam and a Bitcoin ticket fraud site.
Cybersecurity researchers have been tracking cryptocurrency-related scams targeting fans seeking tickets, betting opportunities, and tournament-related content around the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to findings released by TRM Labs, several fraud operations linked to the event are already active, with scammers establishing infrastructure months before kickoff in an effort to attract victims. While the value received by the identified scam addresses remains low so far, investigators say the activity suggests a pattern of criminals using major global events to launch targeted fraud campaigns.
Fraud Operations Appear Before Tournament Begins
TRM reported that scams remain one of the largest categories of crypto-related crime. In 2025 alone, approximately $35 billion flowed into wallets linked to fraud, accounting for a major share of illicit crypto activity.
Researchers said major sporting events often create ideal conditions for scammers because they lead to high demand for tickets, travel arrangements, accommodations, and collectibles. Fraud operators frequently set up websites, social media accounts, and payment networks weeks or months before an event begins, then ramp up promotional efforts as public interest grows.
According to TRM, several World Cup-themed crypto scams have already been identified. Although the combined value received by the initial scam addresses is less than $1,700, investigators expect activity to increase.
Fake Ticket Schemes Leave On-Chain Evidence
Among the operations identified, fake ticketing scams currently present the strongest on-chain verification. These schemes imitate legitimate ticket vendors or resale platforms and direct buyers to make payments using cryptocurrency.
One operation involved a Polygon wallet address that was also deployed on Ethereum. TRM reported that the Polygon address received approximately $1,562, with nearly all funds arriving on April 1, 2026. The corresponding Ethereum deployment did not receive any payments.
A separate case involved a Bitcoin address linked to a phishing website advertising World Cup tickets. Researchers reported that the site remained active at the time of analysis, although no crypto payments had yet been received by the address.
TRM also identified fixed-match betting scams as an active category. Additional threats, including scam-kit sellers and fan-branded meme coin promotions, have emerged but currently lack confirmed cryptocurrency addresses.
Movement of Funds Through Bridges
Investigators noted that scammers often attempt to distance themselves from victim deposits by moving funds through cross-chain bridges and custodial exchange accounts. The firm reported that scammers have moved approximately $1.9 billion through blockchain bridges over time, complicating tracing efforts and maintaining access to liquidity.
Related: FIFA World Cup 2026 Turns Into Crypto Prediction Battleground
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