North Korean cybercriminals have stolen more than $300 million worth of cryptocurrency by tricking victims through fake Zoom meetings, according to a report by Cointelegraph. Cybersecurity nonprofit Security Alliance (SEAL) says it is now detecting multiple such scam attempts every single day.
How the Fake Zoom Scam Works
This scam relies on social engineering rather than technical exploits. Hackers pretend to be trusted contacts and lure victims into what looks like a real Zoom call.
- Victims are first contacted on platforms like Telegram
- The hacker pretends to be someone the victim knows or works with
- A legitimate-looking Zoom meeting invite is shared
- During the call, hackers claim there is an audio or video issue
- A “fix” file is sent, which actually contains malware
Once the file is installed, the malware gives attackers access to passwords, sensitive data, and crypto private keys. Wallets are then quietly drained without the victim realizing it.
Why This Scam Is So Dangerous
Security researcher Taylor Monahan warned that this technique has already caused losses exceeding $300 million. Experts say it is currently one of the most effective cyberattack methods used by North Korean-linked hacking groups.
Unlike phishing emails, this attack feels personal and urgent, making even experienced crypto users vulnerable.
Who Is Being Targeted?
The attackers mainly target:
- Crypto investors and traders
- Web3 developers and founders
- DeFi users and NFT holders
- Anyone active on Telegram or crypto communities
What To Do If You Encounter a Fake Zoom Attack
If you suspect you have been targeted or have already installed a suspicious file, act immediately:
- Disconnect your device from Wi-Fi and the internet
- Turn off the device to stop further access
- Move crypto funds to new wallets using a clean, safe device
- Change all passwords linked to email, exchanges, and wallets
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) everywhere
How To Stay Safe From Zoom Crypto Scams
To protect yourself going forward:
- Never download files during online meetings
- Verify meeting invites through a second channel
- Avoid clicking links sent during calls
- Use hardware wallets for large crypto holdings
- Keep your operating system and security software updated
Bottom Line
North Korean hackers are using fake Zoom calls as a powerful weapon to steal crypto, with losses already crossing $300 million. As crypto adoption grows, such scams are becoming more sophisticated. Staying alert and following basic security practices can help protect your digital assets.
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