Crypto investors lost over $10.2 million to phishing scams in January, with more than 9,000 victims affected. This represents a 56% drop from December’s figures.
Phishing Scams: A Persistent Threat
The latest findings from blockchain firm ScamSniffer reveal that phishing losses fell to $10.25 million in January, with over 9,200 victims losing funds. A new threat, known as “transaction simulation spoofing,” has emerged, tricking users into signing fake transactions. In one instance, a user lost 143.45 ETH (approximately $461,000) in a single day due to this scam.
New Threats on the Rise
Malware is also spreading rapidly, with Telegram “Fake Safeguard” scams skyrocketing by over 2,000% since November 2024. Solana users are not immune, with scammers using fake Phantom wallet popups to steal seed phrases, which can unlock full control of a crypto wallet.
Fake Accounts and Bogus Tokens
Fake accounts are popping up at an alarming rate, with over 300 new accounts created daily. This is twice the number seen in November. Scammers are even taking over prominent accounts, such as Yahoo News UK and Lenovo India, to promote bogus tokens.
Tips to Stay Safe
To protect yourself from these scams, follow these tips:
- Be cautious when interacting with suspicious websites or apps.
- Revoke app permissions for your non-custodial wallets if you suspect malicious activity.
- Avoid “recovery experts” who promise 100% returns, as they may be scammers in disguise.
- Contact recovery services if you’ve fallen victim to a scam.
Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Stay informed and stay vigilant to protect your crypto assets.
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