Unit 1 · Ledger basics
How do I spot fake tokens and scam transfers?
- 2 min read
- 4 sections
- 3 questions · +25 XP
Same name, different issuer means a different token. Links in surprise micro-payments and requests to "verify your wallet" are almost always scams.
Anyone can use any token name
On the XRP Ledger anyone can issue a token called RLUSD. Only the issuer address tells you which is real: the one the issuer lists in the xrp-ledger.toml file on its own website.
Our stablecoin page lists the real issuers and flags look-alike tokens as impostors.
You have to opt in before a token can arrive
On the XRP Ledger you must set a trust line before you can receive a token. Scammers ask you to "open a trust line for an airdrop". Each trust line locks 0.2 XRP, and the fake token usually cannot be sold.
Do not open links in tiny transfers
Transfers can carry a memo. A common trick is to spray tiny payments, like 0.000001 XRP, to many wallets with a website in the memo. That site usually asks you to connect your wallet or enter your seed.
No exchange, wallet app or Ripple will ever ask for your seed (secret key). Treat any request for it as a scam.
If you are receiving, check the delivered amount
With the partial-payment flag, a payment can show a large Amount while delivering very little. If you accept XRP for goods, always check delivered_amount.
See it on the site
Related terms
- Issuer address
- The wallet that created a token. Same name, different issuer means a different token.
- Trust line
- A wallet setting that says it will accept a given issuer’s token. Trust line counts are not holder counts.
- Official address file (xrp-ledger.toml)
- A file issuers publish on their own website listing their real issuing addresses.
- Reserve
- An account must hold 1 XRP, plus 0.2 XRP for each object such as an order or trust line. Locked, not spent.