Cryptocurrency scam running rampant on Discord — and it looks legit

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Users being duped into fake Bitcoin and Ethereum cryptocurrency exchange

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Discord servers have recently seen a number of scams involving a fake cryptocurrency exchange for free Bitcoin or Ethereum. The worst part is the scammer's site looks official.

Guess what? it isn't. As shown on cyber security company Kaspersky's blog, the scam is seen on cryptocurrency servers on Discord. It sends random users a private message concerning the scams "fast growing" cryptocurrency exchange, along with a free giveaway prize of cryptocurrency of Bitcoin or Ethereum worth around $20,000 (the amount varies). Of course, instructions of how to get it follow.  

Discord Cryptocurrency Scam

(Image credit: Kaspersky)

The link for registering to the fake cryptocurrency exchange leads to a fairly legitimate-looking site — there's an adaptive layout, believable design, exchange rate info, charts and trading history which is usually expected on trading sites. Reportedly, there's even technical support and several language options. They really put some effort into this.

Then there's two-factor authentication for user's peace of mind for security. But not so fast. Kaspersky states that following through with the registration means either making a small cryptocurrency deposit or going through a 'Know Your Customer' (KYC) identity check.

The contact details and information supplied by the users are collected on a database the scammers then sell through the black market. Yikes. When completing registration, users actually do get the stated Bitcoin or Ethereum in their account, although they won't be able to exchange these coins to their wallet. Pity.

It goes without saying, but random messages offering big prizes or money should never be trusted. With the recent surge in cryptocurrency enthusiasm thanks to GameStop and Dogecoin, vulnerability to fake cryptocurrency scams has definitely heightened. Be safe.

Just to be sure you don't get scammed, here's where you can find the best cryptocurrency exchanges. 

Darragh Murphy
Darragh Murphy
Editor

Darragh Murphy is fascinated by all things bizarre, which usually leads to assorted coverage varying from washing machines designed for AirPods to the mischievous world of cyberattacks. Whether it's connecting Scar from The Lion King to two-factor authentication or turning his love for gadgets into a fabricated rap battle from 8 Mile, he believes there’s always a quirky spin to be made. With a Master’s degree in Magazine Journalism from The University of Sheffield, along with short stints at Kerrang! and Exposed Magazine, Darragh started his career writing about the tech industry at Time Out Dubai and ShortList Dubai, covering everything from the latest iPhone models and Huawei laptops to massive Esports events in the Middle East. Now, he can be found proudly diving into gaming, gadgets, and letting readers know the joys of docking stations for Laptop Mag.