Fake Ledger Live app sneaks into Microsoft’s app store, $588K stolen
Ledger hasnt commented on the scam but has formerly repeated to users that the “only safe place” to download Ledger Live is from its website, ledger.com.Cointelegraph reached out to Microsoft for comment but did not get an instant response.Magazine: Account abstraction supercharges Ethereum wallets: Dummies guide
In a follow up post, ZachXBT kept in mind that Microsoft might have removed the fake Ledger Live app from its platform.The first transaction sent out to the fraudsters wallet address took location on Oct. 24, worth $5,210. A search by Cointelegraph found the phony “Ledger Live Web3” application appeared in Microsofts app store as early as Oct. 19. Source: MicrosoftZachXBT stated they have received 2 messages from victims on Nov. 4 and even argued that Microsoft “should be held responsible” for allowing the phony Ledger Live app to appear in its app store.Sadly received two messages about this from victims today.
Related: Ledger hardware wallet presents cloud-based private key recovery tool It isnt the first time a phony Ledger Live app has actually made its way into Microsofts app shop either.Ledgers assistance account on X (previously Twitter) informed its users about a phony Ledger Live app on two different events in December and March. Hey #ledger usersBeware of phony Ledger Live apps published on the Microsoft StoreThe only safe place to download Ledger Live is on our websitehttps:// t.co/ cDLX1rEWPfLedger will NEVER ask you for your 24-word recovery phrase ❌ Stay safe pic.twitter.com/0dXTJ7FeuO— Ledger Support (@Ledger_Support) December 26, 2022
Almost $600,000 in Bitcoin (BTC) has been taken from users who downloaded a fake Journal Live application on Microsofts app shop, according to cryptocurrency sleuth ZachXBT.The on-chain analyst identified the rip-off, “Ledger Live Web3” on Nov. 5, which is fooling users into believing that theyre downloading “Journal Live”– an interface for Ledger hardware wallets to keep cryptocurrency offline.Approximately 16.8 BTC worth $588,000 has actually been received by the fraudster across 38 transactions utilizing wallet address, “bc1q … y64q,” according to Blockchain.com. About $115,200 has actually left the scammers wallet throughout 2 deals, leaving it with $473,800 or 13.5 BTC.Community Alert: There is presently a fake @Ledger Live app on the main @Microsoft App Shop which was resulted in 16.8+ BTC ($ 588K) stolenScammer addressbc1qg05gw43elzqxqnll8vs8x47ukkhudwyncxy64q pic.twitter.com/rOZ0ZWRWbn— ZachXBT (@zachxbt) November 5, 2023
Related Content
Other Questions People Ask
What happened with the fake Ledger Live app that sneaked into Microsoft's app store?
The fake Ledger Live app, identified as "Ledger Live Web3," was discovered in Microsoft's app store and has reportedly led to the theft of approximately $588,000 in Bitcoin from unsuspecting users. The fraudulent app appeared as early as October 19, 2023, and the first transaction to the scammers' wallet occurred on October 24. This incident highlights ongoing security issues within app stores, particularly regarding cryptocurrency-related applications.
How can users protect themselves from the fake Ledger Live app in Microsoft's app store?
To safeguard against scams like the fake Ledger Live app, users should only download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website, ledger.com. Ledger has consistently warned users about the risks of downloading unauthorized apps and has reiterated that they will never ask for recovery phrases. Staying informed about potential scams and verifying app sources before downloading is crucial for protecting your cryptocurrency assets.
What actions did Microsoft take regarding the fake Ledger Live app?
Following the discovery of the fake Ledger Live app, there are indications that Microsoft may have removed it from their platform, although confirmation from Microsoft has not been received immediately. The incident has raised questions about the responsibility of app stores in preventing fraudulent applications from appearing. Users are encouraged to report suspicious apps to help improve security measures within these platforms.
What should victims of the fake Ledger Live app do?
Victims of the fake Ledger Live app should immediately report the incident to Microsoft and any relevant authorities to help track down the scammers. Additionally, they should monitor their cryptocurrency wallets for any unauthorized transactions and consider changing their security settings. Engaging with community forums or support groups can also provide guidance on next steps and recovery options.