- OpenAI’s Newsroom account was compromised, leading to a post promoting a fake OpenAI-themed cryptocurrency token.
- With scammers exploiting legitimate accounts to build trust, users should stay vigilant and verify the authenticity of sources.
OUR TAKE
The hijacking of the official OpenAI Newsroom account on X to promote a cryptocurrency scam is a troubling incident that underscores the vulnerabilities of online platforms and the sophistication of scammers. It’s alarming how easily fraudsters can exploit legitimate accounts to gain credibility, making their deceptive schemes appear authentic to unsuspecting users. This incident not only highlights the pressing need for enhanced security measures on social media but also serves as a stark reminder for users to remain vigilant.
-Tacy Ding, BTW reporter
What happened
An official OpenAI account on X (formerly Twitter) was hijacked on Monday evening to promote a cryptocurrency scam. At 6:24 PM ET, the @OpenAINewsroom account, which has nearly 54,000 followers and typically shares updates from OpenAI, made a now-deleted post promoting a fake “$OPENAI” token.
The fraudulent post claimed, “We’re very happy to announce $OPENAI: the token bridging the gap between AI and blockchain technology.” It further stated that all OpenAI users were eligible to claim a portion of the token’s initial supply and that holding $OPENAI would grant access to future beta programs. The post included a link to a spoofed website, using a URL that was not openai.com.
OpenAI and X did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the incident. As of this writing, the OpenAI Newsroom account has not posted any explanation for the breach. The account, which launched earlier this month, remains silent on what might have occurred.
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Why it’s important
The alarming hijacking of the OpenAI Newsroom account underscores serious concerns about online security and the risks linked to cryptocurrency ventures. While OpenAI and X have yet to respond, the breach serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance against scams disguised as legitimate offers. Users should verify sources and remain cautious when faced with enticing opportunities, particularly in the fast-moving cryptocurrency landscape, where scams can proliferate easily.
The recent hijacking highlights several critical trends in cryptocurrency scams. Scammers are increasingly leveraging social media platforms to gain credibility by exploiting legitimate accounts, fostering trust among potential victims. This tactic makes their schemes appear more authentic. In 2023 alone, the Federal Trade Commission reported a 70% rise in cryptocurrency scams, reflecting the growing sophistication and prevalence of these fraudulent activities. The incident underscores the urgent need for heightened awareness and security measures across digital platforms.
