⏱ 2 min read
Noman Saleem, a 39-year-old man from Queens and Levittown, New York, has been sentenced to 15 months in prison for running a crypto investment scam in Maryland. Between December 2020 and March 2021, Saleem impersonated popular online crypto influencers, convincing victims to send him cryptocurrency under the guise of a crypto staking or investment opportunity with guaranteed returns. Once he had control of the victims’ crypto, he ceased communication and disappeared with their money.
Saleem’s scheme targeted multiple victims, including one in Maryland, and involved promoting himself as a trustworthy crypto investor. He used virtual wallets to receive the crypto and then disappeared with the funds. The FBI Baltimore Field Office investigated the case, which was announced by U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland Kelly O. Hayes.
The sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge Deborah K. Chasanow, who also ordered Saleem to serve three years of supervised release. The case highlights the growing threat of crypto-related scams and the importance of vigilance when investing in cryptocurrency.
Crypto staking, which involves holding cryptocurrency for a period of time to earn interest or rewards, can be a legitimate investment opportunity. However, scams like Saleem’s can be devastating for victims, who often lose significant amounts of money. The FBI and other law enforcement agencies are working to combat these types of scams and protect investors.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Defendant: Maryland
- Location: MD
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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