Crypto Impersonation Scam: NY Man Sentenced to 15 Months for $1.4M Fraud

According to ChainCatcher, Noman Saleem, a 39-year-old New York man, pleaded guilty in September 2025 to wire fraud for impersonating crypto influencers on Telegram and defrauding investors of more than $1.4 million. Saleem created multiple fraudulent Telegram accounts impersonating prominent crypto KOLs, attracted thousands of users to channels, and solicited them to join paid 'VIP sub-channels'. He deceived victims by promising guaranteed returns through crypto staking and investment opportunities, directing them to transfer assets to wallets under his control. The defendant never executed any staking operations and absconded with the funds.

The U.S. court sentenced Saleem to 15 months imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release. Authorities have recovered and seized the majority of the stolen funds.