Basically hope this helps others not invest here if it is absolutely a scam as it sounds like it. Also I have one question can I get this looked into legally and say I had a good lawyer would they be able to get the BTC/$ value out of the exchange or the people responsible? Since it is still a crime.
I know it’s not likely but I figure I ask here where the best knowledge is at 😚 thanks
First of all, I'm sorry for your loss. The crypto universe is full of such scam attempts, and you must be extra vigilant not to fall for them.
This type of scam has been around for a long time and it is (sometimes) important to use common sense. It defies logic for random internet person to send you a message and offer you a free BTC worth thousands of dollars.
This is well explained in this topic by Royse777:
List of (un)known methods scammers user to scam users with honorable mention Deposit before withdrawing
It mostly happens in gambling section but I have seen people coming up with currency exchange service and try this method.
The trick is very easy. You will see an ANN or service announcement of a new website out of nowhere. You will be given X amount of free BTC to try their website. You will spend those fee BTC and play games in their site. Instantly you will find yourself very lucky. You will make Y times of the X and once you will request a withdrawal they will ask you to deposit Z amount BTC. Once you will contact the support they will give this explanation that the primary deposit is required to verify your account. I have seen people to be trapped and lose their money. Do not send any single satoshi to anyone who will come to you with this method. Stay away, you have been warned.
As for legal actions, I’m not sure what you can do about it. Scammers have most certainly ensured that they are difficult to identify, making it difficult to determine their location or true identity.