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Cryptocurrency News Articles

The lady behind the viral “Hawk Tuah” meme, Hailey Welch, has been absolved of any misconduct by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the FBI

May 22, 2025 at 01:21 am

Following a street interview film with her quirky tagline “You gotta give it that hawk tuah,” Welch became well-known on social media.

The lady behind the viral “Hawk Tuah” meme, Hailey Welch, has been absolved of any misconduct by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the FBI

Hailey Welch, the lady featured in the viral “Hawk Tuah” meme, is being investigated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the FBI for any wrongdoing in connection with a meme token that used her unexpected internet fame. The coin, $HAWK, became wildly popular shortly after her viral street interview, sparking a lot of legal inquiry and speculation.

Viral Fame Turned Crypto Coin

Following a street interview film with her quirky tagline “You gotta give it that hawk tuah,” Welch became well-known on social media. Like many viral personalities, the crypto space was quick to profit from the event with opportunistic coders releasing the $HAWK token, a meme coin ostensibly connected to her likeness and business.

Though the inventors and supporters of the token never formally connected themselves with Welch, this did not stop spectators and investors from believing she was involved. Suspicions about possible insider trading and influencer-backed pump-and-dump operations emerged as the market valuation of the coin skyrocketed and wallets linked to the token emptied massive quantities.

FBI and SEC Get Involved

Both the FBI and SEC intervened to investigate possible securities violations and misleading promotion as the coin acquired popularity and doubts about its legality arose. Welch became a key subject in the inquiry due to her sudden internet popularity and the rapid monetization of the $HAWK token.

However, sources close to the investigation verified, according to CCN, that Welch had no role in the creation, marketing, or promotion of the cryptocurrency. The project’s creators did not pay or contact her. Federal agencies, after examining the relevant wallet activity, communications, and promotional materials, found no evidence linking Welch to any misconduct.

Influencer-Backed Crypto Hype Under Scrutiny

The circumstances surrounding $HAWK expose a somewhat common occurrence in the crypto space: meme coins being developed following viral events or personalities, frequently without their consent. While meme tokens are becoming increasingly popular and could result in rapid financial success, they often cross ethical and legal boundaries.

The SEC has recently shifted its attention to influencer-backed cryptocurrency campaigns, particularly those that conceal payments or deceive investors. Cases involving celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Floyd Mayweather have brought influencer disclosure under close examination.

Welch dodged the legal minefields, but the episode highlights how easily online personalities could be exploited in the fast-paced crypto frenzy.

No Legal Action Against Welch

The outcome of the investigation finally supports Welch’s innocence and clears her of any legal entanglement. The FBI and SEC have completed their probes into her connection with $HAWK, having discovered no direct or indirect links between her and the project’s activities or cash flows, according to CCN’s report.

This brings relief for Welch as she navigates the demands of overnight fame. For the broader crypto community, it serves as a reminder of how, in the absence of regulation and supervision, viral events can become investment vehicles.

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Other articles published on May 22, 2025