The Numismatic Crime Information Center (NCIC) is alerting coin dealers, collectors, and the general public to a growing wave of fraudulent advertisements selling counterfeit coins and precious metals through the Google phone app platform.
Over the past thirty days, NCIC has been actively monitoring a series of deceptive websites promoted via paid ads appearing on the Google mobile ecosystem. These websites falsely advertise rare coins and precious metals at prices significantly below current market values, luring unsuspecting buyers into fraudulent transactions.
What makes these scams especially dangerous is their use of images of genuine coins and bullion — often lifted from reputable sources — which creates a false sense of legitimacy. These sites also engage in unauthorized use of intellectual property, including the logos and trademarks of respected industry authorities such as PCGS, NGC, CAC, and even well-known, legitimate coin dealers, misleading potential buyers into believing they are purchasing from trusted sources.
NCIC strongly urges all members of the numismatic community to remain vigilant:
- Do not purchase coins or precious metals from unfamiliar online sources, especially if prices appear too good to be true. Buy from dealers who are members of PNG, ANA or a local trusted dealer.
- Verify the legitimacy of websites and dealers through known numismatic directories or by contacting NCIC.
- Report any suspicious ads or transactions to NCIC immediately via the NCIC website and the Internet Crime Complaint Center (FBI).“
“We are working closely with industry partners, the Anti-Counterfeiting Educational Foundation, and legal authorities to combat this growing threat,” said Doug Davis, Founder and President of NCIC. “The numismatic community must work together to stop the spread of these fraudulent operations and protect both seasoned collectors and new buyers.”
NCIC is continuing to collect and analyze data on these counterfeit operations and is urging Google to take immediate action in removing these harmful advertisements from their platform.
