Originally published on: October 13, 2024
ZachXBT, a prominent blockchain investigator, has raised concerns about a recent surge in thieves targeting crypto traders offline. Reports have been flooding in about individuals falling victim to in-person crypto thefts, particularly in Western Europe.
According to ZachXBT, there has been a noticeable increase in incidents of crypto home invasion thefts in the region over the past few months, compared to other areas. He shared alarming stories of crypto enthusiasts being held at gunpoint and having their digital assets stolen in recent months.
In a shocking revelation, ZachXBT uncovered evidence suggesting that a victim who lost $4.3 million in crypto during a home invasion had their personal information leaked due to a data breach. This breach enabled the criminals to locate and target the victim.
The thieves meticulously planned their attack, posing as delivery personnel to gain access to the victim’s home armed with machetes. They coerced the victim into transferring crypto to two wallet addresses, which are still inactive to this day.
To avoid becoming a victim of such incidents, ZachXBT advises taking precautions such as refraining from sharing personal information or flaunting crypto holdings on social media. With at least 15 recorded cases of offline crypto robberies worldwide in the past year, caution is paramount.
The severity of the situation was further highlighted by a recent case involving Nick Drakon, a former CEO who was surveilled, threatened, and robbed by a highly sophisticated group. The criminals even targeted his family, forcing him to transfer substantial funds.
As the crypto community grapples with these security challenges, it is essential to stay vigilant and adopt stringent measures to safeguard digital assets. Stay informed and stay safe in the ever-evolving landscape of cryptocurrency security threats.