Verified Crypto Accounts: A Lucrative Business
According to Privacy Affairs’ research, verified cryptocurrency accounts are a hot commodity on the darknet, with the following prices seen for various hacked accounts:
- Kraken verified account: $1,170
- Binance verified account: $410
- Crypto.com verified account: $300
- Coinbase verified account: $250
- U.S.-verified Bittrex account: $30
The Price Jump Since 2022
These prices have significantly increased since 2022, when verified Kraken and Binance accounts were selling for only $260 and $250, respectively. The surge in prices indicates a growing demand for such accounts among cybercriminals.
Evading KYC Measures
Hacked accounts can be used by criminals to bypass Know Your Customer (KYC) measures implemented by popular cryptocurrency exchanges, allowing them to engage in illegal activities under a stolen identity.
Other Online Accounts for Sale
Cryptocurrency accounts aren’t the only ones being sold on the darknet. Credit card information with balances of up to $5,000 can be purchased for $110, while online bank account credentials with balances of up to $2,000 go for $60. Hacked social media accounts, such as Facebook, Airbnb, and Gmail, are also available, starting from $25.
The Importance of Online Security
Privacy Affairs security researcher Miklos Zoltan urges internet users to be cautious with their personal information. The value of their accounts to criminals is often much lower than what users themselves perceive, making them easy targets for a quick profit.
Crypto Exchange Account Hacks: A Growing Problem
The hacking of accounts at popular crypto exchanges has become increasingly prevalent. Recently, a Coinbase customer filed a lawsuit against the company after losing 90% of his life savings in a “SIM swap” attack, where scammers gained control of his phone number by tricking the telecommunications provider. As the demand for hacked accounts continues to rise, the importance of online security cannot be overstated.
Conclusion
The alarming trend of cybercriminals selling hacked, verified cryptocurrency accounts on the darknet is a stark reminder of the importance of online security. With prices for these accounts skyrocketing since 2022 and the prevalence of account hacks at popular crypto exchanges, it is crucial for internet users to take necessary precautions to protect their personal information. By being more cautious, users can reduce the risk of falling victim to these criminals and ensure that their digital assets remain secure. As the demand for hacked accounts continues to grow, the need for increased awareness and vigilance in the realm of online security is more important than ever.
