There are several methods commonly used by hackers to break into crypto assets.
Here is an analysis of some commonly used techniques:
1. Phishing
How it works:
Phishing involves sending fake emails or messages that appear to be from a trusted source.
Victims are redirected to fake websites that imitate crypto services (e.g., wallets or exchanges) and asked to enter sensitive information such as passwords or private keys.
Main targets:
Public users who are less careful in checking the authenticity of the site or received communication.
How to avoid:
Verify the URL address and avoid clicking on unknown links.
2. Malware
How it works:
Malware is malicious software that can be installed on a victim's device. It is designed to steal login information, private keys, or directly steal assets by modifying crypto transactions.
Main targets:
Users who do not update their device's security or who download applications from unofficial sources.
How to avoid:
Use an up-to-date antivirus and be careful when downloading applications.
3. Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attack
How it works:
In a MitM attack, a hacker infiltrates the communication between a user and a server. This allows the hacker to steal information such as login credentials or modify transactions.
Main targets:
Users who use public or unsecured networks, such as public Wi-Fi without encryption.
How to avoid:
Use a secure network, VPN, and ensure the site uses the HTTPS protocol.
4. 51% Attack
How it works:
This attack involves a hacker or group of hackers gaining control over more than 50% of the computing power (hash rate) of a blockchain network.
This allows them to manipulate transactions, such as double spending (using the same crypto asset more than once).
Main targets:
Blockchain with a low degree of decentralization or a small network with a low hash rate.
How to avoid:
Larger, more decentralized blockchains are harder to attack in this way.
5. Fraud and Social Engineering
How it works:
Hackers use psychological techniques to manipulate victims into revealing sensitive information such as private keys or account credentials. This can happen through phone calls, emails, or even through direct interactions on social media.
Main targets:
Users who are trusting and not wary of suspicious communications.
How to avoid:
Do not share sensitive information publicly or with unknown parties.
6. Exploiting Vulnerabilities di Smart Contracts
How it works:
Smart contracts are programs that run on the blockchain. If there is a loophole or bug in the code of a smart contract, hackers can exploit it to steal the funds stored in the contract.
Main targets:
New or unaudited DeFi (Decentralized Finance) protocols.
How to avoid:
Using smart contracts that have been tested and audited by trusted third parties.
7. Use of Botnets
How it works:
A botnet is a network of malware-infected computers controlled by a hacker. These botnets can be used to carry out large-scale attacks such as distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) or brute-force attacks to gain access to crypto wallets.
Main targets:
Exchange servers or crypto platforms with weak security.
How to avoid:
Improve server protection and use anomaly detection systems.
Conclusion
The security of crypto assets largely depends on how users and platforms maintain their systems. Some preventive measures such as using two-factor authentication (2FA), storing assets in cold storage (offline wallets), and being careful about phishing schemes are essential to protect assets from attacks.
On the other hand, improving the security of smart contracts and blockchain networks is also necessary to reduce the risk of more technical attacks such as 51% attacks or exploiting loopholes in smart contracts.
