Every so often a Telegram channel sells a “scheme”: paste seed phrases into a bot, get a few dollars per “valid” phrase, watch the bot empty wallets and split the take. It sounds like clever arbitrage. It is a funnel.
A seed phrase is not a coupon. It is full control of the wallet. If a phrase still holds anything of value, the only rational buyer is a thief — or someone pretending to be one while they prepare a different ask. The usual sequel is familiar: the bot “needs gas”, “needs a mirror deposit”, or “needs KYC unlock” money from you.
Never type a live seed into a chat, a website form or a stranger’s bot. If you already did, move whatever you can from that wallet immediately using a device and apps you trust, then assume the old phrase is burned. And if the channel’s whole business model is harvesting keys, you do not need a brand biography — you need an exit.
If this pattern matches something you’ve been offered, start at Get help. If someone is already pitching “recovery”, read Fake recovery before you pay another fee.
This article is for general information only. It is not legal or financial advice. Details change. If you have lost money, contact your bank or card issuer and use the routes on the help pages.