TRM Labs warns of crypto scams targeting 2026 World Cup

Blockchain analytics firm TRM Labs announced that it is tracking cryptocurrency scams aimed at the 2026 World Cup. The firm stated it has so far identified two fake ticket websites that mimic the official World Cup site to solicit crypto payments, and one match-fixing betting scam demanding upfront Bitcoin payments with claims of knowing game outcomes in advance. In one of the fake ticket scams, approximately $1,562 was deposited into a Polygon (POL)-based address, with the funds later moved to the Tron (TRX) network after several swaps. TRM Labs also warned that memecoins presented as fan-led projects, such as WORLDCUP listed on LBank, could become vehicles for pump-and-dump schemes. "While confirmed losses so far are only around $1,700, there is a risk of additional victims from some of the existing scam infrastructure," the company added.