Google sues crypto scammers for tricking users via fake apps

In 2023, the U.S. witnessed crypto fraud losses totaling over $1 billion. Google’s lawsuit seeks to protect users but also aims to deter future fraudulent activities. The defendants, identified as Yunfeng Sun and Hongnam Cheung, allegedly engaged victims through various methods, including text messages via Google Voice, promotional videos on YouTube, and affiliate marketing, since at least 2019.

Applications such as TionRT, a purported crypto exchange, were designed to appear authentic, even allowing initial minor withdrawals to earn users’ trust. However, victims were eventually unable to access their funds, often misled by additional payment requests or minimum balance withdrawal requirements.

The lawsuit highlights that when these fraudulent activities were identified, Google took steps to remove the apps, though the scammers persistently created new ones to circumvent detection.

Google asserts that it has incurred damages exceeding $75,000 due to investigation and safety measures taken against these breaches. The tech giant seeks a permanent injunction to prevent the accused and their associates from accessing Google services and creating accounts.