New Wave of Phishing Scams Targeting Crypto Professionals
Bitget CEO Gracy Chen has issued a warning about a new wave of phishing scams targeting cryptocurrency professionals through fake Zoom and Microsoft Teams meeting invitations.
How the Scams Operate
According to Chen, hackers are sending fraudulent meeting invites through Telegram and fake Calendly pages. Once victims join the call, the scammers claim there are audio issues or connection problems and persuade them to download a supposed software update or SDK. This file is actually malware designed to steal passwords and private keys, a tactic often used by the Lazarus group, which is allegedly linked to North Korea.
Context: Recent High‑Profile Kidnapping
The warning comes on the heels of a high‑profile kidnapping incident involving Chinese travel blogger Lan Zhanfei, who was abducted in South Africa. The kidnappers reportedly spent months planning the attack, bribed hotel and airport staff, and forced Lan to collect biological samples while threatening his life. Although Chen did not link the kidnapping directly to cryptocurrency, she highlighted it as part of a broader pattern of targeted crimes against online personalities and blockchain users.
Impersonation of Bitget Representatives
Chen also pointed out that scammers are impersonating Bitget representatives through fraudulent Telegram accounts and fake Calendly pages. She urged users to verify all meeting links, avoid downloading any software suggested during calls, and report suspicious activity to security teams immediately.
Rising Crypto‑Related Violence
This warning comes at a time when incidents of crypto‑related violence are on the rise. Earlier this year, two brothers in Minnesota were charged with holding a family hostage at gunpoint and forcing a victim to transfer $8 million in crypto. In Paris, a man was kidnapped near the Arc de Triomphe and robbed of a hard drive containing €2 million in Bitcoin.
Takeaway
Chen’s message is clear: users must remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves from these evolving threats.
