How Do Crypto Scammers Target Users Through Advertisements on Etherscan?

**Crypto Scammers Target Etherscan Users with Massive Phishing Ads**

Etherscan Ads Behind Phishing Campaign

Crypto scammers have shifted their focus to phishing ads, with their latest target being Etherscan, a reputable blockchain explorer. The concerning campaign has raised alarms among security experts and crypto enthusiasts.

Phishing Ads Run Rampant on Etherscan

On April 8, cryptocurrency user McBiblets exposed the presence of “wallet draining” ads on Etherscan. SlowMist’s Chief Information Security Officer, 23pds, corroborated the findings and urged caution. Web3 anti-scam platform Scam Sniffer revealed that the phishing ads had spread beyond Etherscan to other online platforms.

🚨🕵️‍♂️ Alert: Phishing ads running rampant on Google, Twitter, Bing, & DuckDuckGo are now targeting Etherscan users.

Etherscan aggregates ads from platforms like Coinzilla & Persona, where insufficient filtering could lead to exposure to phishing attempts.🛡️🔍 pic.twitter.com/EGDLiCrrAa

— Scam Sniffer | Web3 Anti-Scam (@realScamSniffer) April 8, 2024

Phishing Campaigns Target Etherscan Users

The ongoing phishing campaign targets Etherscan users through malicious advertisements. Scammers employ methods like “wallet drainers” to trick victims into linking their cryptocurrency wallets, subsequently allowing the attackers to withdraw funds without authorization.

Scammers Use Sophisticated Tactics

The phishing attacks are often attributed to notorious actors like Angel Drainer. The fraudsters lure victims to fake websites and trick them into signing harmful phishing signatures, granting them unauthorized access to their digital assets.

Industry Braces for Rising Phishing Attacks

The recent Etherscan phishing campaign is part of a worrying trend of increasing phishing schemes in the cryptocurrency industry. Scam Sniffer data indicates that over 97,000 crypto investors have fallen victim to phishing scams this year, losing millions of dollars.

How to Protect Yourself

* **Be vigilant:** Avoid clicking on suspicious ads, especially those promising unrealistic returns.
* **Verify authenticity:** Inspect website URLs and sender addresses carefully for any irregularities.
* **Enable two-factor authentication (2FA):** Add an extra layer of security to your cryptocurrency accounts.
* **Report suspicious activity:** Inform Etherscan and other relevant authorities about any potential phishing attempts.
* **Educate yourself:** Stay informed about the latest phishing techniques and security best practices.