Beware of Pig Butchering Scams: What They Are and How to Stay Safe In recent years, a particularly insidious form of online scam has emerged, known as "pig butchering" scams. Despite its peculiar name, this scam is anything but a joke. It preys on people's emotions and trust, often leading to devastating financial losses. Here’s what you need to know about pig butchering scams and how to protect yourself.