It was the start of a $280,000 nightmare (3.Viewing)

She flaunted an image of a wealthy lifestyle​

Novak’s experience is part of a growing online scam known as “pig-butchering,” which authorities say has drained billions from US victims through fake cryptocurrency investments.

It often starts with innocuous online messages from a fraudster posing as a romantic interest to gain trust and connection. As the bond grows, the scammers introduce the idea of crypto investing, projecting images of wealth and financial success to make it seem attainable. Experts have compared it to fattening a pig before slaughter.

https://us.cnn.com/2025/11/29/us/crypto-romance-scam-pig-butchering-cec

I cried when I read the story, he's a father trying his best and got taken by a professional scammer.