The promise of cryptocurrencies for moonshots continues to draw investors, as crypto trading is seen as one of the best ways to make money online. However, as cryptocurrency gains popularity around the world, it has become a hotbed for scammers who engage in a variety of fraudulent operations. Clipboard jacking is one such fraud that you may be unaware of. So let’s look into this form of attack and how to secure your cryptocurrency.
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What is clipboard jacking?
Clipboard jacking is a type of cyber assault in which an attacker employs malware or a trojan to intercept data that a user transfers to the clipboard. This could include sensitive information like cryptocurrency addresses or passwords. The attacker then changes this information with data under their control, such that when the victim pastes the data, it is inadvertently sent to the attacker.
This is a sort of crypto address poisoning in which cybercriminals take advantage of the fact that most individuals are unable to remember cryptocurrency addresses. As a result, the malicious actor has an easier time transferring coins or tokens to their replacement wallets. Unaware users will only learn when the assets they transferred do not reach their intended destination.
How Clipboards are Hijacked.
Attackers use a variety of methods to gain control of your device’s clipboard. They frequently use malware, which customers unintentionally download and install on their own computers or mobile phones. This can be done through adult websites, fraudulent websites, or by embedding it in legitimate applications and apps on free software and file-sharing sites. This spyware keeps snooping on the clipboard until it finds a copied wallet address or other sensitive information. It will modify the contents of the clipboard by substituting legal data with information controlled by the attacker. This also applies to credit/debit card information for consumers who make online payments.
Some of the hazardous malware that employs clipboard tactics include:
CryptoShuffler: This malware targets cryptocurrency wallets by altering the wallet address you copy so that coins are transmitted to the hackers rather than the intended destination.
Malicious Tor Browser: This software monitors what you copy and paste during cryptocurrency transactions and attempts to steal your valuables. Furthermore, hackers might use websites or online applications to target naive cryptocurrency users.
The attacker may inject malicious code into a webpage, allowing it to access the user’s device clipboard data when information is copied and pasted from the webpage. This allows the attacker to obtain sensitive information, such as login details or wallet credentials.
How to Protect Your Crypto From Clipboard Jacking.
1. Install robust antivirus.
It is critical to have a strong antivirus suite that can detect and protect your cryptocurrency against unauthorized access, which could result in cash loss. This is critical for cryptocurrency wallets, particularly software wallets and self-custodial wallets, which are widely available online.
Hackers can use clipboard jacking to hack wallets, which is comparable to phishing attempts, a prevalent cryptocurrency scam. This is why you should always use an excellent antivirus to protect your devices from harmful activity.
2. Install the latest updates.
You must always apply the most recent security patches and updates on your device. This plays an important role in preventing security breaches and malware attacks. However, if your device’s operating system is not up to date, hackers can easily exploit its vulnerabilities to manipulate how it functions.
3. Download programs from official sources.
If you’re using a software wallet, avoid downloading software from third-party or fraudulent websites. These are frequently the leading causes of malware that might result in clipboard jacking. As a result, make sure to obtain programs from reputable and trusted sources.
4. Be cautious.
Malware cannot infect your system without some level of user engagement. This is why you should be vigilant about your internet activities and clicks. For example, free software with no reviews or authoritative sources raises red flags. Furthermore, you must always check the cryptocurrency wallet address you enter before sending payments.
This guarantees that you send the cryptocurrency to the correct wallet address.
Conclusion
Cybercriminals continue to invest in various tactics for attacking cryptocurrency users and stealing their funds, such as clipboard jacking. While clipboard jacking is not the only internet assault, you should know how to avoid it, especially if you engage in cryptocurrency transactions.
