Arrr, mateys, scurvy hackers be setting their sights on X verification accounts to bamboozle ye, beware!
2024-01-17
Avast ye scurvy dogs! These landlubber hackers be usin' verification accounts on X, once known as Twitter, to swindle unsuspectin' souls into purchasin' worthless pieces o' scam cryptocurrencies. 'Tis but one o' the newest tricks o' the trade, a phishing scam like no other!
If you use X, formerly known as Twitter, you might've seen gray or gold-verified accounts promoting cryptocurrencies. They often pose as actual cryptocurrencies. While you would think these cryptocurrencies are legitimate — in reality, it's the work of hackers who hijack X accounts.These hackers target politicians, companies, and other official accounts that you trust to trick you into buying into their crypto scam. Some act as middlemen, selling accounts to malicious actors. Cybersecurity experts MalwareHunterTeam found accounts belonging to a Canadian senator, a Brazilian politician, and a nonprofit all being used to push cryptocurrencies. Hackers used the Canadian politician's account to pose as a legitimate cryptocurrency project, whose actual account isn't even verified.
That attack is two-fold. Not only are hackers trying to trick X users into thinking that they're an actual cryptocurrency project, they also use that gold or gray checkmark to make you think they are trustworthy. Cybersecurity firm Mandiant also had its X profile taken over. Hackers changed the profile to impersonate the Phantom crypto wallet. They then promised free tokens to users who clicked a link. However, a BleepingComputer report found that users who clicked on the link would get redirected to download the real Phantom cryptocurrency wallet. That's when hackers would attack — draining unsuspecting users' crypto wallets.
To protect yourself, you should use a strong password that you don't reuse on other websites and consider using a password manager. Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your X account. Be cautious of suspicious links and never give your username and password out to third parties. Make sure your computer software is up to date with the most recent upgrades and antivirus software. If you suspect your X account has been hacked, immediately change your password, let your friends and family know, and keep an eye on your account for any unfamiliar activity. It's also recommended to have good antivirus protection installed on all your devices and consider reaching out to cybersecurity professionals or services if you believe your personal information has been compromised.