Pig Butchering
Definition
The 'sha zhu pan' romance-investment scam. Phase 1 builds the relationship over weeks. Phase 2 introduces a fake crypto or trading platform. Phase 3 drains the victim through repeated small deposits the platform refuses to release.
- Origin term
- Sha zhu pan
- Phase 1
- Relationship building over weeks
- Phase 2
- Fake crypto or trading platform introduced
- Phase 3
- Repeated small deposits, platform refuses release
Common questions
Why do these scams open with weeks of relationship building rather than an immediate financial pitch?+
The extended rapport-building phase establishes trust and emotional investment, which makes the victim far less likely to question the legitimacy of the investment platform introduced later and more willing to keep depositing money even after early warning signs appear.
How does the fake platform keep victims depositing money in phase three?+
The platform typically shows fabricated gains to encourage larger deposits, then blocks withdrawal with excuses such as taxes, fees, or account verification requirements, prompting the victim to send additional funds to try to free up the money they believe they already earned.
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