Cryptocurrency

Vitalik Buterin X Account Hack Highlights Crypto Scam Risks

crypto scam risks
vitalik buterin x account hack highlights crypto scam risks 4

Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin reportedly fell victim to hacking on social media platform X, resulting in over $691,000 in stolen crypto assets. The incident exemplifies the prevalence of scams as crypto adoption grows.

On September 9, Buterin's X account was compromised and used to share a malicious link, according to blockchain investigator ZachXBT.

Victims who clicked the link and connected their wallets ultimately had their funds drained, with losses exceeding $691,000 so far. CryptoPunk NFTs were among the assets stolen, including CryptoPunk #3983 worth over $250,000.

Buterin's father Dmitry confirmed the hack, tweeting: "Disregard this post, apparently Vitalik has been hacked. He is working on restoring access."

Social Media Accounts Remain Hack Targets

While details remain limited, the incident highlights the ongoing risk of social media account takeovers in crypto.

High-profile individuals like Buterin remain prime targets for hackers. Flawed security practices may also play a role, but social media firms themselves are vulnerable to breaches.

In 2020, a major Twitter hack affected verified accounts like Elon Musk and Joe Biden, spreading a fake bitcoin giveaway.

As crypto adoption increases, hackers continue exploiting vulnerabilities to steal crypto assets and trick users.

Fake Grayscale Account Also Emerges on X

In a separate crypto scam on X unveiled this week, an account posing as Grayscale Investments promoted a fake $25 million token giveaway.

screenshot 2023 09 11 01 16 22 76 40deb401b9ffe8e1df2f1cc5ba480b128752753857758350624 694x1024 jpg
A fake Grayscale (X) Social Media Account

The @Grayscale_FND account used the real company's logo and referenced its popular Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC) product. But Grayscale confirmed it is not associated with the account.

screenshot 2023 09 11 01 16 53 04 40deb401b9ffe8e1df2f1cc5ba480b128956575827975988138 1024x941 jpg
@Grayscale_FND copies @Grayscale's real account details (X)

This exemplifies the rise of fake brand accounts on X since verification rules were relaxed under new owner Elon Musk. Previously, blue checkmarks denoted vetted and authentic profiles.

Social Media Fraud Likely to Persist as Crypto Matures

While crypto security and authentication solutions exist, social media scams and hacking persist due to human error and unavoidable system risks.

As crypto expands, its integration with mainstream social platforms will continue to introduce vulnerabilities open to exploitation by fraudsters.

However, greater awareness and education around best security practices can help users safeguard themselves against scams as the crypto ecosystem evolves.

Proactive steps like robust password hygiene, account protections, blocking suspicious accounts and verifying links are key to mitigating risks in crypto's social sphere.

Show More
Back to top button
CCNC | Cryptocurrency Newscast We would like to show you notifications for the latest news and updates.
Dismiss
Allow Notifications

Ad Blocker Detected

Please turn off and Support us