Malwarebytes uncovers fake Google Coin crypto scam using AI chatbot

You might think that you can spot a cryptocurrency scam a mile away. But what if the idea came from what seemed like an official google assistant artificial intelligence, Answer your questions in real time and show expected profits? This is exactly what scammers are doing now. Security researchers at Malwarebytes, a cybersecurity company known for tracking malware and online scams, recently discovered a “Google Coin” direct sales site featuring a chatbot claiming to be Google’s Gemini AI.

The bot walked visitors through an investment demo, provided detailed return estimates and guided them to send cryptocurrency payments. Google doesn’t have it Cryptocurrency. However, the site looked polished, professional, and convincing enough to appear legitimate at first glance.

Sign up for my free CyberGuy report
Get the best tech tips, breaking security alerts, and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide – FREE when you join my site CYBERGUY.COM Newsletter

Be aware of fraudulent emails claiming your data has been stolen

Security researchers at Malwarebytes have discovered a polished crypto scam that falsely claims that Google has launched a new digital currency. (Photo by Helena Dolderer/Image Alliance via Getty Images)

What you need to know about the “Google Coin” cryptocurrency scam.

Researchers have discovered a fraudulent website promoting a fake cryptocurrency called “Google Coin.” The site was designed to look like it was owned by Google, and claimed that the project was related to its AI assistant Gemini.

At the heart of the scam was a chatbot that introduced itself as “Gemini, your Artificial intelligence assistant for Google Coin.” and used familiar branding and images to make visitors believe they were interacting with a legitimate Google product.

When asked simple investment questions, the chatbot gave specific financial forecasts. For example, it claimed that purchasing 100 tokens at $3.95 each could turn into more than $2,700 once the coin was “listed.” The site displayed fake progress meters, countdowns, and claims of millions of tokens that had already been sold. Once someone clicked “buy,” they were directed to send Bitcoin to a specific wallet address. Payment was final and irrevocable.

There is no official Google currency. The entire process is designed to collect cryptocurrencies from unsuspecting investors.

How the Google Coin Cryptocurrency Scam Works.

This scam combines two powerful tricks: brand impersonation and artificial intelligence. First, the scammers created a website that mimicked the look and feel of Google, including logos, design, and technical language. They then layered in a chatbot that acts like a real AI assistant. Since many people are now accustomed to chatting using AI tools, this interaction seemed natural and legitimate.

The chatbot is programmed with a tight script. He answers questions confidently, avoids recognizing risks, and refuses to acknowledge their possibility Scam. If you ask about company registration or regulation, they are deflected with vague promises about security and transparency.

This means you’re not arguing with a goofy scammer over email. You interact with programs designed to persuade you around the clock. The chatbot can talk to hundreds of people at once, giving each of them personalized answers and prompting them to send cryptocurrencies. Once you send it, your money is gone.

This type of scam is dangerous because it is interactive and appears credible. When a chatbot answers your questions in real-time, it can lower your guard. You’re probably thinking, “If this is fake, it won’t look professional.” But that’s exactly the point. Artificial intelligence allows scammers to increase their confidence and refinement.

If you fall for this, the financial loss could be immediate and permanent. Cryptocurrency payments cannot be reversed like credit card charges. There is no customer support line to call. There is no refund process.

Worse still, once you engage with a scam site, your contact details, email or wallet address can be added to lists circulated among scam groups. This could make you a target for future investment scams, phishing emails, or impersonation attempts.

We reached out to Google for comment but did not hear back before our deadline.

Spotify Voting Scam Detected

Scammers are using a fake “Google Coin” pre-sale website with a chatbot pretending to be Google’s Gemini AI to lure investors into sending cryptocurrencies. (Photo by Thomas Trotschl/Photothek via Getty Images)

7 ways you can protect yourself from cryptocurrency scams

Cryptocurrency scams are becoming more sophisticated, especially with AI tools that make fake investments look polished and legitimate. The good news is that you can significantly reduce your risk by taking some smart precautions before investing or sending any cryptocurrency.

1) Be skeptical of “new” coins associated with famous brands

If you see a cryptocurrency claiming to be launched by a well-known company, check it out directly on the company’s official website. Major companies publicly advertise major financial products. If you can’t find confirmation of the company’s real scope, assume it’s fake and walk away.

2) Never trust guaranteed or specified return forecasts

No legitimate investment can promise that your $395 will turn into $2,700. When a chatbot offers specific futures prices or guaranteed multiples, this is a red flag. Real investments carry risk and uncertainty. Promises of quick and predictable profits are classic scam tactics.

3) Use a password manager

A password manager creates strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts and stores them securely. If scammers trick you into entering credentials on a fake site, unique passwords prevent them from accessing your other accounts. Many password managers also alert you if your information appears in known data breaches. Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2026 at Cyberguy.com.

4) Install antivirus software

Powerful antivirus software helps detect malicious websites, phishing attempts, and suspicious downloads before they harm your device. It adds another layer of protection if you accidentally click on a dangerous link. This can stop Hidden malware From installing while you are distracted by a convincing fraudulent offer. Get my picks for the best antivirus protection winners of 2026 for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS at Cyberguy.com.

5) Consider identity theft protection

An identity theft protection service monitors your personal information, such as your Social Security number or email, and alerts you if it is misused. If scammers collect your data through a fake investment site, early alerts can help you act quickly before the financial damage spreads. See my tips and top picks for the best identity theft protection at Cyberguy.com.

6) Use a personal data removal service

Data removal services remove your personal data from public data broker websites. The less personal information there is about you online, the harder it is for scammers to target you with personalized promotions. Reducing your digital footprint reduces your overall exposure to fraud. Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free check to see if your personal information really exists on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com. Get a free check to see if your personal information is already on the web: Cyberguy.com.

7) Slow down before sending cryptocurrency

Crypto payments are fast and irreversible. Before sending any cryptocurrency, pause and verify the recipient independently. Look for reviews, warnings, and official announcements. If the investment requires urgency, such as a countdown or a “final stage” message, treat this pressure as a warning sign.

300,000 Chrome users exposed to fake AI extensions

The AI-powered scam mimics Google’s branding and uses real-time chat to build trust before demanding irreversible crypto payments. Google does not own cryptocurrency, despite claims on a disguised investment site called “Google Coin.” (Photo by Thomas Trotschl/Photothek via Getty Images)

Key takeaway for Kurt

Fraudsters no longer rely solely on… Clumsy emails Or obvious red flags. They use AI to create polished, compelling conversations that feel real and are responsive. When this fake AI wears the face of a trusted brand, it becomes even more convincing. The good news is that awareness is powerful. If you take a minute to verify claims, question guaranteed returns, and use protective tools, you significantly reduce your risk.

Do you think AI makes it harder to identify online scams than it was a few years ago? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

Click here to download the FOX NEWS app

Sign up for my free CyberGuy report
Get the best tech tips, breaking security alerts, and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide – FREE when you join my site CYBERGUY.COM Newsletter.

Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.