Experts from the blockchain security company Scam Sniffer reported a new type of fraud that combines social engineering and fake Telegram bots.
Experts reported that criminals create fake social media accounts impersonating popular crypto influencers, and then invite users to their groups on Telegram. After transitioning to the resource, potential victims are offered to verify themselves using the fake bot OfficiaISafeguardBot.
After using OfficiaISafeguardBot, malicious software is implanted into the user's smartphone or computer to steal private keys. Scam Sniffer experts have discovered 'numerous cases' of theft, as the scam scheme using the fake Telegram bot 'has been around for a long time.'
We are seeing for the first time such a specific combination of fake social media accounts, fake Telegram channels, and malicious bots. It is unclear if there are other similar fake bots, the company stated.
Blockchain security analysts have noted a surge in activity from scammers posing as well-known members of the crypto community. On average, in December, the Scam Sniffer monitoring system identifies about 300 scammers per day compared to 160 in November. It is known that at least two victims lost more than $3 million by clicking on malicious links.
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