Local high schooler dedicates free time to helping kids avoid crypto scams

LEWIS CENTER, Ohio (WCMH) -- An Olentangy High School senior is working to help protect youth from cryptocurrency scams.

Jai Anand said he has worked with more than 250 students over the past year through his free educational program, Crypto4Kidz. Anand said when he learned the scope of cryptocurrency scamming, -- $5.6 billion in 2023, according to the FBI -- he knew he wanted to do something.

"The impact has been amazing. Kids are not only grasping these topics but also taking action," Anand said. "One parent shared that their child flagged a suspicious link, preventing what could have ended poorly."

In 2023, over 850 individuals ages 19 and younger reported they had fallen victim to cryptocurrency scams, losing a combined $14,745,598, according to the Internet Crime Complaint Center. Anand said early this year, he had several people close to him become targets of crypto scams. Among them, one was even hacked on social media.

"A group of 'crypto gurus' hacked one of my friend’s Instagram accounts and contacted me and many of my peers pretending to be my friend," Anand said. "This really opened my eyes to how common and dangerous these scams are, especially to youth."

In response, he said he began to spend his free time informally educating friends, peers and strangers about cryptocurrency awareness. Over time, he developed the Crypto4Kidz programming, which he said includes open conversations, a presentation and playing games like Kahoot, time permitting.

As the program grew, he began reaching out to local schools and said he's worked with places like Acton Academy Columbus to educate their students in online seminars. Anand said he's worked with students ages nine through 17 -- so far.

"The program is 100% free; I wouldn't ever charge for something like this because of how rewarding it is," Anand said.

He said he hopes it continues to grow, and "absolutely" intends to continue Crypto4Kidz after graduation. He even said he wants to expand it, planning educational videos and programming for elderly individuals, who he said can be particularly vulnerable.

Anand said he hopes to reach more people who want to learn about protections from crypto scams. For more information, visit his website or email him at Crytpo4kidzoh@gmail.com.