WATCH: Gardaí warn about cryptocurrency bitcoin investment frauds and how to avoid being scammed Garda Fraud Awareness Week '); '); Fraud involving digital cryptocurrency such as Bitcoins are becoming more common in investment fraud scams according to Gardaí who are highlighting the dangers of such frauds. The dangers of falling prey to investment scammer was flagged on day one of the Garda Fraud Awareness Week which began on March 8. "Unfortunately, such scams are becoming more prevalent, particularly during the pandemic due to increased online traffic and targeting of the general public by criminals using ever increasingly sophisticated means. "An investment fraud scam is a fraud where criminals pose as investment managers, promise quick and high rates of return, and simply steal your money. The fraudster uses various investment schemes such as in rare metals, overseas property, and alternative energy schemes such as carbon credits and forestry. Promises are made of fast, enormous returns, once in a lifetime opportunities and can be seen to be endorsed by reputable business people or celebrities but this is without their knowledge," say gardaí