Joe A. from Shelton, Connecticut, has lost $228,000 to a ZAP Solutions cryptocurrency investment scam, an incident that has brought to light the risks associated with online fraud. After his divorce, Joe received a text about a potential investment opportunity, which he initially believed could help him rebuild his life. However, the promise of quick returns quickly turned into a trap, as each “short-term investment” required another wire transfer. By the end of the ordeal, Joe had sent every penny he had, including his 401K and IRA investments. His mother, Carol, expressed her devastation upon learning of the loss, stating that Joe showed them his screenshots and the messages, confirming he had emptied his accounts. The family filed a police report with local authorities and contacted the FBI, but recovery seems unlikely. The FBI reports that cybercriminals have stolen more than $50 billion from Americans in just five years. Scammers often target individuals in emotional and financial transitions, such as those experiencing divorce. Joe’s story underscores the importance of vigilance and awareness in the face of potential investment scams. He now emphasizes the adage, “If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.” Experts recommend verifying any investment opportunity through official government or financial websites, such as the SEC’s Investment Adviser Public Disclosure database or FINRA’s BrokerCheck. Additionally, they advise against clicking on links from unknown sources and installing strong antivirus software to protect against phishing attempts and malware. Joe’s experience serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the need for individuals to remain cautious and informed when dealing with potential investment opportunities online.