Crypto investors are increasingly facing malware attacks on Telegram, as reported by blockchain security company Scam Sniffer.
While phishing scams continue to pose a significant threat, resulting in nearly $500 million in losses in 2024, attackers have adopted new tactics, with Telegram-based malware emerging as a rapidly growing danger. These scams have spiked by 2,000% from November 2024 to January 2025.
In contrast to traditional phishing methods, which often involve impersonating well-known individuals, these novel schemes infiltrate authentic Telegram groups. Victims are lured into joining fake communities through seemingly credible invitations.
Once ensnared, malicious bots or fake trading platforms coax users into unwittingly activating harmful code. This allows attackers to obtain sensitive information, such as passwords and crypto wallets.
Scam Sniffer highlights that the progression of these scams illustrates the heightened awareness among crypto users regarding conventional phishing, prompting attackers to devise more intricate strategies. The company recommends users to refrain from executing unverified commands or installing suspicious software, advocating for the use of secure wallet solutions. Furthermore, they caution users that legitimate crypto platforms never ask for such actions, underscoring the importance of vigilance when navigating online interactions.