How can I identify if a crypto investment opportunity is a scam?

Watch for red flags: promises of guaranteed returns (crypto is volatile and unpredictable), pressure to invest quickly, unknown teams without verifiable backgrounds, and requests to send money to private wallets. Legitimate projects have transparent whitepapers, active development teams with public identities, and community presence. Verify information independently through multiple sources, never share private keys, and research on official websites only. If something sounds too good to be true—unrealistic gains, celebrity endorsements—it likely is. Start small, use regulated exchanges, and enable two-factor authentication. Remember: legitimate opportunities don't pressure you.