Erin West: Romance-Crypto Scam Taking Over - "Pig Butchering" Cyber Fraud Explained

In this episode with Erin West, a globally recognized speaker and educator specializing in transnational organized crime, we expose "pig butchering" scams. You won't believe it until you hear it.

We discuss:
- Who is targeted and why are they so dangerous?
- The DOJ just announced a $14 billion pig butchering bust - we explain
- How have CZ and Elon Musk helped in the fight against these scams?
- How to protect yourself

Bio: Erin is the founder of Operation Shamrock, a global nonprofit uniting law enforcement, industry, and everyday citizens to disrupt the world’s fastest-growing form of transnational organized crime: digital scams.

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*IN THIS COIN STORIES EPISODE*
00:00 Who is Erin West?
01:29 What Is Pig Butchering?
03:28 The Investment Trap
05:32 Gemini Bitcoin Credit Card | Bitwise | Bitdeer (BTDR)
07:11 A Fan Meets a Fake
10:02 Human Trafficking Compounds
13:08 Forced Labor Reality
16:56 DOJ Bitcoin Seizure
19:45 Victim Restitution
21:25 Speed Wallet | Bitkey | The Bitcoin Way | Genius Academy
23:15 Operation Shamrock
32:39 Social Media Failings
38:25 Deepfake Threat
43:45 Starlink Crackdown

*OTHER RESOURCES*
Natalie Brunell’s website https://www.talkingbitcoin.com/
Operation Shamrock https://operationshamrock.org

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Producer: Aron Bender https://www.linkedin.com/in/aron-bender/
Editor: Silas Foley

📄 LEGAL & RISK DISCLOSURE

1. No Financial Advice: This content is for entertainment purposes only and not intended as financial, legal, or tax advice. I am not a licensed financial advisor. Always consult a professional.
2. Sponsored Content & Affiliate Links: I may receive compensation when you use them, which helps support the channel at no additional cost to you.
3. Crypto Risk Warning: Cryptocurrencies are highly volatile and speculative. Risks include loss of capital, extreme price swings, and lack of regulatory protection.
4. Jurisdiction Notice: This content may not be appropriate for residents of jurisdictions where digital asset promotions are restricted or prohibited. Please verify your local laws before engaging.
5. Accuracy & Timeliness: All content reflects personal opinion and is based on available information at the time of recording. No guarantees are made regarding accuracy or future performance.

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