Token
What it may indicate
Many crypto scams revolve around a token that appears valuable but is in reality worthless or manipulated. Identifying the type of token and its issuer is an important step in an investigation. A token in itself is neutral; the context determines whether fraud is involved.
What is a token?
A token is a digital unit of value issued on an existing blockchain, for example on Ethereum. Unlike a coin such as bitcoin, a token uses the infrastructure of another network. Tokens can represent a balance, a voting right, a collectible or pure speculation.
How can a token be used in a scam?
Scammers often create their own token and artificially inflate its price, then dump their own holdings. Honeypot tokens, which you can buy but not sell, also occur. An investigation looks at the issuer, the distribution of the token and the transaction patterns around its launch.
More questions about tokens
What is the difference between a token and a coin?
A coin runs on its own blockchain, such as bitcoin; a token is issued on top of an existing blockchain. The distinction matters because it affects how a token is created, moved and traced.
Can token transactions be traced?
Yes, tokens move across public blockchains and are therefore traceable in the same way as other transactions. Paucitas can map those movements in a traceable report.