Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Act quickly, but do not send more money. You generally cannot reverse a confirmed blockchain transaction yourself. Your best chance of stopping further movement is to secure exposed accounts, alert every exchange or custodian that may receive the funds, and file an FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) report with complete wallet and transaction evidence. An exchange may flag or freeze an account under its internal rules or legal process, but no freeze is guaranteed and it does not erase the transfer.
This guide is U.S.-focused. It explains what “freezing” means in practice, the exact information to collect, where to report, how to avoid recovery scams, and what to expect if authorities later seize assets.
Do these things first
- Stop communicating with the suspected thief and any “recovery” agent. Do not send additional cryptocurrency, fees, passwords, seed phrases, one-time codes, identity documents, or remote-access credentials. The FBI warns that recovery fraudsters often impersonate law enforcement or lawyers and demand an upfront payment.
- Secure accounts that could still be accessed. From the exchange or wallet provider’s official website or telephone number, change passwords, sign out unknown sessions, revoke suspicious token approvals where the product supports that feature, and enable multifactor authentication. If someone calls claiming to represent an exchange, independently type the service’s web address or find its published number; do not use a link or number supplied by the caller.
- Contact every relevant exchange or custodian immediately. Notify the service you used to send the funds and any destination service you can identify. Give the receiving address, transaction hash, asset, amount, timestamp and your police or IC3 case number when available. Ask whether the destination account can be flagged or frozen.
- File an IC3 complaint now. The FBI says, “Do not wait. Go to www.ic3.gov and click on ‘file a complaint’.” Submit what you know even if some details are missing; add information later if the portal permits.
- Make the other reports that fit the facts. Use ReportFraud.ftc.gov for consumer fraud. The facts may also warrant a report to CFTC.gov/complaint for commodities or derivatives conduct, SEC.gov/tcr for securities-related conduct, your local police department, or another national law-enforcement agency. Obtain each case or ticket number.
- Preserve original evidence. Save transaction hashes, wallet addresses, screenshots, emails, texts, phone numbers, domain names, app names, exchange records, bank or card statements and a dated timeline. Keep exported files and message headers when possible, and do not crop or edit screenshots.
What “freeze the crypto” actually means
A blockchain normally records a completed transfer permanently. A victim cannot cancel it through a wallet app, and an ordinary customer-service request cannot roll it back. The practical target is a centralized exchange, broker, payment service or other custodian that receives the assets after the theft.
An exchange can sometimes place a hold on an account or withdrawal. That action may follow the company’s internal risk procedures or a request backed by a subpoena, court order, seizure warrant or other legal process. A hold can prevent the suspect from withdrawing or converting funds while an investigation proceeds; it does not delete the original blockchain transaction, prove ownership, or guarantee that money will be returned.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
The FBI states: “Private sector recovery companies cannot issue seizure orders to recover cryptocurrency. Cryptocurrency exchanges only freeze accounts based on internal processes or in response to legal process.” Treat anyone promising a guaranteed freeze as a fraud risk, especially if the person asks for an upfront payment or your wallet credentials.
How to ask an exchange to flag or freeze funds
Use an official support route
Open the exchange’s own website or app by typing the address yourself or using a bookmark you created previously. Use its fraud, account-security or law-enforcement channel rather than a social-media direct message. If you are unsure whether a caller is genuine, end the call and dial the number listed on the official site.
Send a concise incident package
Include enough information for an investigator to locate the transfer quickly:
- Every sending and receiving wallet address.
- Asset and quantity, such as BTC, ETH or USDT, plus the approximate U.S.-dollar value at the time.
- Exact date and time, including time zone.
- Every transaction ID or hash, copied directly from the blockchain record.
- The exchange, broker, ATM, decentralized application, website or wallet application used.
- Your IC3, police and exchange ticket numbers, if already assigned.
- A short chronology explaining how contact began, when you sent funds, when you noticed the theft and what happened afterward.
State clearly that the transfer is suspected theft or fraud and ask whether the destination address belongs to an account on that service, whether withdrawals can be held under its policy, and what additional documents its fraud or law-enforcement team needs. Do not include a private key, recovery phrase or one-time authentication code. A legitimate investigator does not need those secrets to identify a public transaction.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What the exchange can and cannot do
- It may be able to: identify a customer account associated with a deposit, place an internal hold, block withdrawals, preserve records, or respond to a lawful request from investigators.
- It normally cannot: reverse a confirmed on-chain transfer, control funds held in a self-custody wallet, or disclose another customer’s identity solely because a victim asks.
- It may require: a police or IC3 reference, proof that you controlled the sending wallet, identity documents, a court order or other legal process, and a formal request from law enforcement.
How to file an FBI IC3 report
IC3 (ic3.gov) is the primary federal intake for internet-enabled cryptocurrency theft and fraud. File as soon as you recognize the loss. The FBI’s Virtual Assets Unit, formed in February 2022, centralizes cryptocurrency investigative expertise, but filing does not guarantee that an agent will contact you or that funds will be recovered.
Information to enter
The FBI specifically requests cryptocurrency addresses, amount and type of cryptocurrency, date and time, and the transaction ID (hash). A complete report should also contain:
- Wallet details: each address that sent or received funds, identifying which you control and which belongs to the suspected actor.
- Transaction details: asset, quantity, approximate fiat value when sent, exact timestamps and all hashes. If several transfers occurred, list them separately in chronological order.
- Service details: exchange, broker, ATM, dApp, website, wallet application or payment processor involved, including the account or user name used.
- Contact evidence: names, aliases, usernames, email addresses, phone numbers, messaging handles, domains, social profiles and any claimed company or government affiliation.
- Documents: exported chats and email headers, invoices, payment instructions, QR codes, call records, screenshots, bank or card records and exchange correspondence.
- Narrative: how the contact started, what you were promised, when each payment was made, when you recognized the theft, and every follow-up demand or threat.
- Reference numbers: local police report, exchange ticket, bank dispute and other agency numbers, if available.
Use plain language and separate facts you observed from statements the other person made. If you do not know an address or exact time, say that it is unknown rather than guessing. Keep a copy of the submitted report and any confirmation number.
When details are incomplete
Do not delay while waiting for a perfect timeline or a tracing report. Submit the transaction hashes and addresses you have, then preserve additional material and update authorities if the portal allows. A later report can reference the original confirmation number. Prompt notice gives exchanges and investigators a better chance of seeing funds before they move through additional services.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Which agencies and reports apply?
| Route | Best fit | What it can contribute | Important limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| IC3/FBI | Internet-enabled theft, scams and cryptocurrency fraud | Federal intake, investigative leads and a reference number that can be given to exchanges | It does not promise an investigation, freeze or repayment |
| Local FBI field office | Cases needing direct contact or potentially significant investigative follow-up | Local point of contact and a way to provide supporting records | Jurisdiction and resources determine what action is possible |
| FTC ReportFraud.ftc.gov | Consumer fraud and deceptive business practices | Regulatory complaint data and referrals; the FTC also directs victims to IC3, the CFTC, SEC and the exchange used | It is not an emergency freeze mechanism |
| CFTC.gov/complaint | Commodities, futures, swaps or other conduct within CFTC jurisdiction | Regulatory record and possible investigative lead | Not every cryptocurrency dispute is a commodities matter |
| SEC.gov/tcr | Securities-related offerings, brokers or investment conduct | Regulatory complaint and potential enforcement lead | A filing does not itself recover assets or establish that a token is a security |
| Local police or another national law-enforcement agency | Device theft, identity theft, threats, extortion or crimes requiring local jurisdiction | Case number, local investigation and supporting documentation for other requests | Procedures and jurisdiction vary; explain the cryptocurrency component clearly |
| Sending or destination exchange/custodian | Immediate operational alert | Fastest possible internal flag, withdrawal hold or record-preservation request | Action is discretionary or requires legal process; staff cannot reverse the blockchain |
File with every route that matches the conduct, and give each agency the other reference numbers. Reporting to one organization does not automatically notify the others.
Evidence checklist and preservation method
Capture the blockchain record
- Copy the complete transaction hash exactly as displayed by the wallet or a reputable block explorer.
- Record the sending and receiving addresses, asset, token contract where relevant, quantity, network and timestamp.
- For a token sent on the wrong network or to a contract, preserve the network name and the destination type; do not attempt risky “recovery” transactions without verified technical advice.
Preserve communications and account records
- Export chats and emails in their original format when the service permits; retain full headers, attachments and the sender’s address.
- Save unedited screenshots showing the complete conversation, profile, URL, date and time. Keep the original files and a backup in a location the suspected actor cannot access.
- Download exchange statements, deposit and withdrawal histories, support tickets, login alerts and multifactor-authentication notices.
- Keep bank, card, wire and payment-app records linked to the purchase or transfer.
- Maintain a dated timeline with one line per event and the evidence file name supporting it.
Do not publicly post your full wallet history, identity documents or recovery phrase. Share sensitive material only through a verified agency or exchange channel.
Recovery: what is realistic?
The FBI does not promise recovery. The outcome depends on where the assets move, whether they reach a cooperative exchange, how quickly the transfer is reported, the identifying evidence available, and whether investigators obtain legal process. Funds left in a self-custody wallet or moved through services that do not cooperate can be especially difficult to recover.
If law enforcement later seizes cryptocurrency, an identified victim may have to petition for the property. A 2025 seizure notice from the FBI and Secret Service said victims may need exchange records, proof that they owned or controlled the wallet, and bank statements. Keep those documents even after submitting your initial complaint.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
A seizure is not the same as an immediate refund. The government may need to establish forfeiture, notify potential claimants and resolve competing claims before any distribution. Follow the instructions in an official notice and meet its deadlines; do not pay a private intermediary to “unlock” seized funds.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Recognize and avoid recovery fraud
People who lose cryptocurrency are commonly targeted again because the original transaction identifies them as victims. A new contact may claim to be a blockchain tracer, attorney, exchange employee, FBI agent or “asset-recovery” specialist. Warning signs include an unsolicited message, a guarantee of recovery, pressure to act immediately, a request for cryptocurrency or gift cards upfront, demands for your seed phrase or remote access, and a fee for a supposed government investigation.
The FBI warns: “Law enforcement does not charge victims a fee for investigating crimes.” It also warns that private recovery operators may stop responding, provide an inaccurate tracing report, request more money or falsely claim law-enforcement affiliation. Verify any government or exchange contact through a website or telephone number that you locate independently. Never click a link supplied by the caller to sign in, connect a wallet or approve a transaction.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallOutdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchSecurity steps after the report
- Change passwords for the exchange, email account, cloud storage and phone carrier account associated with the wallet. Use unique passwords and an authenticator-based multifactor method where available.
- Review active sessions, API keys, withdrawal addresses and token approvals. Revoke anything you do not recognize, following the wallet provider’s documented process.
- Contact your mobile carrier if a phone number may have been taken over, and ask about an account PIN or port-out protection.
- Scan devices for malware, install operating-system and wallet updates from official sources, and remove unfamiliar remote-access software.
- Move any remaining assets to a newly created, verified wallet only after securing the device and recording the new recovery phrase offline. Never type that phrase into a website or send it to support.
- Monitor bank, card and exchange accounts for additional unauthorized activity and report new losses under the same case references.
How common is cryptocurrency fraud?
The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center recorded more than 69,000 cryptocurrency-related complaints and over $5.6 billion in reported losses in 2023. About $3.9 billion of those reported losses involved investment fraud. FBI Director Christopher Wray said in a 2024 release that “Scams targeting investors who use cryptocurrency are skyrocketing in severity and complexity.” These figures are reported losses, not a measure of every theft, and they do not predict the result of an individual case.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Questions victims commonly ask
Can an exchange freeze a wallet?
An exchange can potentially freeze an account or withdrawals on its own platform, but it cannot freeze a self-custody wallet or undo a confirmed blockchain transaction. Its action depends on internal procedures or legal process.
Should I wait until I know every transaction hash before filing?
No. File the IC3 complaint as soon as possible with the addresses and hashes you have. Add missing information later if the portal allows and give the confirmation number to the exchange and local police.
Is a blockchain-tracing report proof that I will recover my money?
No. Tracing can help organize transaction paths, but it cannot issue a seizure order, compel an exchange to disclose records or guarantee repayment. Be especially cautious if the report is unsolicited or tied to an upfront fee.
What if the thief contacts me again?
Do not negotiate or send anything. Preserve the message, profile, phone number and payment demand as evidence, then report the contact through your existing IC3, police and exchange channels.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
