Crypto security firm PeckShield recently raised an alert about a phishing scam targeting followers of the prominent crypto influencer, whose account on X (formerly Twitter) appears to have been compromised. PeckShield’s urges users to avoid engaging with any Telegram links shared through the influencer’s profile, specifically warning against the fake airdrop and wallet-related instructions posted.
#PeckShieldAlert #phishing @AndyAyrey’s X has been compromised. Do *NOT* engage with any Telegram communities linked to his account pic.twitter.com/LW8SjcCkLD
— PeckShieldAlert (@PeckShieldAlert) October 29, 2024
The influencer, posing as @AndyAyrey, directed followers to join a Telegram group for a supposed token launch. The tweet encouraged followers to repost and drop their SOL wallets while promoting a fake Solana airdrop. The message further incentivized users by claiming there would be a token launch within “10-15 mins,” creating a false sense of urgency to lure unsuspecting followers. As the influencer has a substantial following, this post quickly gained traction, posing a high risk to individuals unfamiliar with phishing tactics.
The scam tweets utilized language implying an exclusive opportunity for followers to receive tokens directly, aiming to exploit the trust built between the influencer and their community. Followers were encouraged to buy into the “1 SOL dev supply,” an apparent attempt to defraud users by redirecting them to a phishing Telegram channel.
Community Response and Preventative Measures
The rise in phishing scams within the crypto community highlights the importance of digital vigilance. Cybercriminals frequently hijack popular accounts to target followers, luring them into scams under the guise of “airdrops” or “exclusive token offerings.” This latest breach underscores the growing sophistication of these scams and the need for both influencers and their followers to be aware of potential red flags. Suspicious prompts to share wallet addresses or engage in third-party Telegram groups are often clear signs of malicious intent.
Following PeckShield’s alert, many in the crypto community have begun sharing the warning, urging followers to report the compromised account and refrain from interacting with any suspicious links or posts. The incident serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities associated with social media platforms and the importance of account security, especially for those with significant influence in the cryptocurrency space.