As Bitcoin's price and popularity surge, so do the number of scams. Two of the latest investment schemes gaining traction are Bitcoin Superstar and Bitcoin Era. A closer look reveals they are virtually identical in structure and tactics, sharing the same cookie-cutter template with several other well-known scams.
Identical Templates, Different Branding
Both websites feature a red warning at the top: “Due to extremely high media demand, we will close registration as of 19/02/2020 – Hurry.” This classic urgency tactic is used to pressure visitors into making hasty decisions. The sites also display the same hype phrases like “Bitcoin is making people rich,” “you can become the next millionaire,” and “change your life today.” Strangely, both use the same promotional video featuring CNN coverage and positive comments from celebrities like Richard Branson. They also display logos of Bitgo, Norton, Secure Trading, and McAfee, and claim to have been featured on CNN, FT.com, Time, and Forbes to build false credibility.
Bitcoin Superstar describes itself as a group of people “who jumped on the insane returns that Bitcoin offers” and claims members “make money on their laptop with just a few minutes of ‘work’ every day.” Bitcoin Era focuses on its trading software, stating that with it “you can take advantage of the profit potential in the Bitcoin and cryptocurrency markets.”
Fake Testimonials with Stock Photos
The testimonials section is nearly identical on both sites. Both display four “successful traders” with photos, names, locations, and profit amounts. However, the images are identical across both platforms, with only the names and profits altered. In fact, the photos are stock images from Pexels.com, a free photo site. Bitcoin Superstar even misspells “testimonials” as “testemonials.”
A Long List of Similar Scams
According to Scamcryptorobots.com, the same template has been used by many other scams, including Bitcoin Investor, Bitcoin Revolution, Bitcoin Trader, Bitcoin Evolution, Bitcoin Formula, Bitcoin Secret, Crypto Revolt, Bitcoin Rush, and Crypto Xchange. The first known use of this template was for Bitcoin Trader. Over time, some sites change their look; Bitcoin Era has launched a second website with the same logo. These scams also publish fake press releases on crypto news sites.
$250 Upfront Fee and Unrealistic Profit Promises
Both schemes require an upfront investment of at least $250. Once paid, users likely never see their money again. Bitcoin Superstar even claimed: “Ride on the Bitcoin wave and earn €13,000 ($14,038) in exactly 24 hours. Guaranteed.” Bitcoin Era boasts an “accuracy rate of 99.4%” and claims “many users have reported making thousands of dollars per day.” These unrealistic promises are classic red flags. As Scamcryptorobots notes: “The only exclusive club you are invited to join is a losing club designed by professional con artists to rip you off and steal your money.”
How to Protect Yourself
Common warning signs include: urgency tactics (“closing soon”), unverifiable profit claims, upfront payment requirements, use of generic stock photos, and unauthorized use of trusted brand logos. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it almost certainly is. Always research any investment platform thoroughly, check with financial regulators, and never send money to unknown entities promising guaranteed returns.
As long as people chase quick riches, scams like Bitcoin Superstar and Bitcoin Era will continue to reappear under new names. Stay vigilant and verify before you invest.