The moment you realize you’ve been a victim of crypto fraud is a shock. The perpetrators move quickly, but if you react immediately, you can limit the damage and, in some cases, significantly increase the chances of recovering some or all of your funds. The Apostolidis Law team has handled dozens of international crypto and cash recovery cases, working with forensic investigators, banks and international authorities. Here are the critical steps you need to take within the first 24 hours.
The first 24 hours: Time counts
The first few hours after the fraud is committed are crucial. The process of blocking, freezing and tracing funds must begin as soon as possible, before the perpetrators transfer the funds through multiple crypto wallets or offshore accounts.
Step 1: Immediate legal activation — The office takes over management
The first and most important step is to contact a specialized lawyer immediately. From that point on, you do not need to know “what to do” — the firm takes over on your behalf. The Apostolidis Law team:
- immediately assesses the incident
- initiates the tracing process (blockchain and banking)
- activates legal procedures for interim protection
- drafts and files the necessary reports
- coordinates communication with banks, payment providers, and exchanges
- manages international requests for assistance (where required)
THIS is the point at which the largest percentage of cases is won or lost. From the moment we take on the case, the client does not need to do anything without guidance.
Step 2: Do Not Delete Evidence — Gather All Supporting Material
Until the firm fully takes over, it is critical to preserve all evidence. What should be retained:
- emails, messages, screenshots
- IBANs, wallet addresses
- platform name or domain
- date, time, and transaction amount
Even details that may seem insignificant can prove crucial for the tracing process.
Step 3: Bank — Report the Fraud and Request Immediate Action
If the payment was made via bank transfer or card:
- inform the bank immediately that the transaction is fraudulent
- request an investigation and, where possible, a temporary transaction freeze
- initiate the chargeback or recall procedure
Banks often cooperate with authorities when prompt legal guidance is provided. Attention: Do not trust “refund services” or “recovery agents” that request advance payment. They almost always constitute a second scam.
Step 4: Filing an Official Report with the Authorities
To activate international cooperation mechanisms, an official report must be filed without delay:
- with the Cyber Crime Division (Hellenic Police)
- with the Authority for Combating Money Laundering
- where an international route is involved, through the Greek authorities to Europol / Interpol Cybercrime
The firm coordinates and prepares the reports so that they are complete and usable in subsequent procedural steps.
Step 5: Blockchain and IBAN Tracing
The next stage is purely technical and legal. Our team:
- conducts blockchain analytics using specialized tools
- fully maps the flow of funds
- identifies points where crypto is converted into fiat
- prepares the necessary legal requests for freezing orders
This process runs in parallel with the initial legal actions to ensure that no time is lost.
Step 6: Legal Actions and Interim Measures
Depending on the specifics of the case, the following may take place:
- applications for temporary freezing of accounts (freezing orders)
- formal communication with exchanges and payment service providers (PSPs)
- filing of a criminal complaint and a claim for damages
- activation of international mechanisms for cross-border recovery
Each case requires a tailored strategy, a combination of technological substantiation, and swift legal action.
How Apostolidis Law Can Assist
Our firm provides comprehensive and structured support:
- Immediate legal activation and guidance
- Blockchain and banking tracing
- Drafting and filing of reports
- Cooperation with international authorities and exchanges
- Representation in fund recovery and compensation claims
Our team can be activated immediately, 24/7, in crypto fraud cases.
For any legal need, our team is at your disposal. 📧 info@apostolidis-law.gr 📞 +30 231 3113829 📅 Book an appointment: Book an Appointment – Apostolidis Law You may also request an urgent legal consultation via Zoom for an immediate assessment of your case.