This Generation Needs to Stop Flaunting Their Crypto

For decades, society has drilled into us the importance of financial discretion. From a young age, we’re taught that bank accounts are private, and the details within them are for our eyes only. It’s not just etiquette—it’s a fundamental part of protecting ourselves from fraud, theft, and even kidnapping. Banks themselves enforce this principle: modern e-banking apps now block users from taking screenshots of account details. This feature serves as a protective barrier, reminding us that our financial information is not meant to be broadcast.

Yet, despite this longstanding habit, a baffling trend has emerged among the younger generation: the urge to show off their cryptocurrency wealth online, and cryptocurrency only. Screenshots of crypto wallets boasting profits, successful trades, and six-figure balances are paraded across social media platforms daily. At Compliancia, we regularly encounter cases of individuals flaunting their so-called “success,” completely oblivious to the risks they are inviting. It begs the question: why is it that we understand the need to protect traditional bank accounts, yet treat cryptocurrency, another form of money, with such reckless abandon?

Cryptocurrency enthusiasts often boast the decentralization and personal control over assets as reasons to embrace digital currencies. Ironically, many of these same individuals undermine their security by showcasing their holdings online. It’s not just unwise—it’s an open invitation to criminals.

Consider the irony: bank account balances are guarded secrets, but crypto wallets, which are equally if not more vulnerable, are treated like trophies to be displayed. Financial institutions have long understood the risks associated with sharing sensitive data, which is why they’ve implemented safeguards such as screenshot-blocking features. Meanwhile, many crypto exchange platforms and wallet apps fail to implement similar protections. This technological gap seems to encourage a culture of oversharing, particularly among younger users.

This isn’t just careless—it’s dangerous. Everyone knows that crypto transactions are anonymous and difficult to trace. While this feature may appeal to those who value privacy, it comes with a dark downside: once the money is gone, it’s nearly impossible to recover. Now imagine a scenario where a person who has flaunted their crypto wealth on social media is stopped in the street, beaten up, and forced to transfer their cryptocurrency. The anonymity of the transaction ensures the attacker is never found. Why would you even allow such an app on your phone without taking serious precautions?

The urge to flaunt wealth isn’t new, but the tools to do so have evolved. Social media amplifies this tendency, providing an instant audience for boasting. Unfortunately, the consequences of such behavior remain as dire as ever. Criminals no longer need to physically stalk potential victims; all the information they need is just a few clicks away.

In November 2024, Phuket police arrested four foreigners—two Ukrainians, one Armenian, and one Russian—for allegedly robbing a Ukrainian tourist of 8.5 million baht in Tether (USDT) cryptocurrency. The victim, was lured to a hotel room, overpowered, and coerced into transferring the funds under threat of violence. The suspects were apprehended shortly after the incident and charged with robbery and unlawful detention. This case underscores the risks associated with publicly displaying cryptocurrency holdings, as it can attract criminal attention and lead to severe consequences.

At its core, cryptocurrency is simply another form of money. The flashy graphics and jargon may make it seem different, but it holds the same value as cash or bank deposits. So why the disconnect? Why do so many people treat their crypto wallets as public achievements rather than private assets?

Part of the answer lies in the culture surrounding cryptocurrency. Many early adopters were drawn to the industry for its potential to democratize wealth and provide opportunities for anyone to succeed. Success stories in the crypto world are celebrated, often accompanied by screenshots of wallet balances or trading profits. This culture of public validation has normalized oversharing, creating a false sense of security among users.

However, crypto wallets come with unique vulnerabilities. Unlike bank accounts, which are protected by regulatory frameworks and customer support systems, crypto wallets are often unregulated. Lose access to your wallet or fall victim to a scam, and there’s no central authority to help recover your funds.

At Compliancia, we’ve seen firsthand how oversharing leads to devastating consequences. Social media posts that were meant to impress friends and followers often end up catching the attention of the wrong people.

These cases serve as stark reminders that privacy is not just a preference—it’s a necessity. Whether it’s your bank account, your crypto wallet, or even physical cash, the rule is simple: keep it secret. No one needs to know how much money you have, and broadcasting that information only increases your risk.