Total Noob Here: Lost My Life Savings in Crypto Scam (Don't Be Like Me)

So, this is probably the dumbest thing I'll ever admit on the internet, but here goes. I just lost my entire crypto portfolio to a scam, and it feels like my stomach has been punched repeatedly.

Look, I'm new to crypto. Got in a few months ago, convinced it was the future. Did some research, or so I thought, but clearly not enough. I saw this email about a "limited-time investment opportunity" with a guaranteed 300% return. Yeah, I know, laugh it up.

Stupidly clicked the link, website looked okay, testimonials, fancy video – the whole shebang. Downloaded their "secure investment software" like an actual moron. Fast forward ten minutes, and my computer's gone haywire. Everything's frozen, pop-ups everywhere. Panic sets in.

Turns out, the software was malware, a keylogger that stole my crypto wallet login. Tried everything to fix it, called tech support (useless), scoured forums (probably made things worse). By morning, my wallet was drained. Empty.

This isn't a "get rich quick" story, it's a cautionary tale. For anyone new to crypto, please, do your freaking research. Don't trust fancy websites or promises that sound too good to be true. And for the love of Satoshi, don't download random software!

Right now, I feel like a total newbie (because I am). Just hoping this post helps someone avoid the massive financial and emotional hole I'm currently in. Learn from my mistakes, friends.