Crypto Exchange Red Flags: When You Should Walk Away

If something feels wrong, it usually is.

Crypto Exchange Red Flags: When You Should Walk Away

Some crypto exchanges fail slowly. Others should be avoided immediately. This module shows the most important crypto exchange red flags that tell beginners when to walk away — no second chances.

Important: You do not need proof of a scam. One strong red flag is enough to stop.

Red Flag 1: Withdrawal problems (the biggest warning)

If you see repeated stories about blocked withdrawals, delayed exits, or extra payments to unlock funds, walk away.

Quick check: Mark any item you see in reviews or support messages.

Withdrawals pendingDays or weeks with no clear timeline Deposit more to withdrawThey ask you to add funds first Pay fees to release fundsThey demand money just to unlock your funds

Red Flag 2: Pressure tactics and fake urgency

Real exchanges do not rush you. Pressure is a classic sign of manipulation.

Countdown timersUrgency to deposit right now Limited slots / VIP accessArtificial scarcity offers Support pushes fast actionsThey pressure you instead of helping

Red Flag 3: Too-good-to-be-true rewards

Free money almost always comes with a trap. Bonuses are often used to lock withdrawals.

Guaranteed profitsNo real market can guarantee profit Risk-free tradingClassic bait language Bonus requires extra depositsDesigned to lock you in

Red Flag 4: Fake or dangerous customer support

Support should protect you, not extract information.

Asks for password or seed phraseNever share these, ever Requests remote accessAnyDesk / TeamViewer style requests Only contacts via private chatsNo official support channels

Rule: No real exchange will ever ask for your private keys.

Red Flag 5: No real company or changing stories

If the company identity is unclear, changes often, or cannot be verified, trust is impossible.

No legal entity or addressNothing verifiable Different names on different pagesInconsistent branding/legal info Copied or broken legal docsLow-effort or missing policies

Red Flag 6: Broken or confusing rules

Confusion benefits the exchange, not you.

Fees explained after depositSurprise costs Withdrawal rules hiddenVague or hard to find Rules may change anytimeUnlimited power against you

Red Flag 7: Repeated bad patterns in reviews

One bad review means nothing. Hundreds saying the same thing means everything.

Same complaints everywhereAcross multiple platforms Many locked-account storiesPattern matters more than one story Support stops respondingCommon escalation pattern

The one-question test

Ask yourself:
“If I needed my money tomorrow, would I feel calm?”

If the answer is no — walk away.

What to do when you see red flags

1. Stop depositing immediately
2. Do not send more documents or money
3. Withdraw what you can (if possible)
4. Choose another exchange using the full checklist

← Prev: Withdrawals & Exit Safety Final Step: Make the Safe Decision →

FAQ: Crypto exchange red flags

What is the biggest crypto exchange red flag?

Withdrawal problems, especially being asked to pay or deposit more to withdraw.

Is one red flag enough to leave?

Yes. You do not need multiple warnings. One strong red flag is enough.

Are bonuses always bad?

Not always, but many are designed to lock withdrawals. Beginners should avoid them.

What should I do if I already deposited?

Stop adding funds, test withdrawals immediately, and document all interactions.