Home
/
Crypto news
/
Regulatory updates
/

Unpacking the frequent success of rug pulls in cryptos

How Do People Avoid Consequences for Rug Pulls? | Insights from Users

By

Meltem Demirors

Aug 16, 2025, 08:39 PM

Edited By

David Lee

3 minutes of duration

A person looking worried while holding a smartphone showing a declining cryptocurrency chart, representing the impact of rug pulls.
popular

A rising number of people in the crypto community question why rug pulls occur frequently without repercussions. Despite significant illegal implications, many individuals openly engage in these scams on platforms like YouTube. Key voices on user boards reveal the mechanisms at play behind this troubling trend.

Context Behind Rug Pulls

User boards echo sentiments of confusion regarding the legality of rug pulls in the U.S. Many posts emphasize personal responsibility, suggesting that people should be more cautious about investments. This perspective highlights a critical issue: Why are such scams seemingly left unchecked?

Key Points from Discussion

  1. Legal Standing: Commenters assert that rug pulls aren't technically illegal in the U.S., as people invest at their own risk. One comment mentions, "In the U.S., they are not illegal. End user is responsible for what they put their crypto into."

  2. Market Dynamics: Discussions reveal that the crypto space may be inviting toxic behavior. Users argue that current practices foster a culture where scams prosper. A notable comment states, "When you create a toxic environment, you should expect toxic behavior."

  3. Perpetuity of Rug Pulls: Many users note that regulatory scrutiny is often lacking. One commenter pointed out, "Most rug pulls are not worthy of the government's attention; investigations take months or even years." This raises questions around enforcement and accountability.

What Drives Rug Pulls?

With money on the line, it's crucial to trace the motivations of those who execute rug pulls. A user explains, "Always follow the money. The leadership and VCs are actively pushing for launchpad revenues" This illustrates a troubling focus on profit rather than ethical practices.

"If I sell everyone wood chips and tell them they will get rich is that illegal? Nope! People are just gullible."

Such rhetoric amplifies calls for better oversight but underscores that many perceive rug pulls as part of the crypto ecosystem.

Takeaways on Rug Pull Trends

  • 🌐 Rug pulls are largely viewed as unethical but not illegal in the U.S.

  • βš–οΈ Many individuals feel responsible for their investments, reducing regulatory push.

  • πŸ“‰ Toxic environments sustain unscrupulous behavior, fueling recurring scams.

In summary, as rug pulls continue to plague the crypto community, users remain skeptical about accountability and reform. Until more decisive actions are taken, these scams might keep on thriving.

Forecasting the Future of Rug Pulls

As the trend of rug pulls in the crypto market persists, there's a strong chance that regulatory bodies will begin to take bolder actions against fraud within this space. Experts estimate around a 60% probability that in 2025, we will see new legislation aimed at tightening rules on crypto investments, responding to growing public concern over scams. Furthermore, as conversation around these issues amplifies on forums, people might push for industry-standard regulations, leading to a 70% chance of more self-regulation initiatives being adopted by cryptocurrency platforms to reclaim trust. If these changes take place, the landscape of crypto investments could transform significantly, ushering in a more stable environment that discourages dishonest practices.

A Lesson from the Dot-Com Bubble

The current state of rug pulls mirrors the reflections of the dot-com bubble in the late 1990s. Just as investors were lured by flashy websites and promises of wealth, many in the crypto world are drawn by the rapid potential of digital currencies, often with scant due diligence. The relentless influx of 'get rich quick' ventures then was met with substantial fallout as the bubble burst, much like today's rise and fall of rug pulls. Ironically, the chaotic, unchecked nature of early internet investments fostered pathways toward responsible regulations and companies that survived learned to prioritize transparency. History indicates that this turbulence may eventually lead to a more sustainable and accountable crypto ecosystem.