Coldcard vulnerability-related losses may reach $130 million, hardware wallet manufacturers warn of increased phishing attacks
2026-08-04 10:54
Odaily News: Hardware wallet manufacturers Trezor and Foundation have warned that following the disclosure of a Coldcard firmware vulnerability, phishing attempts targeting hardware wallet holders have increased, with attackers soliciting recovery phrases and luring victims into downloading malware.
Security firm Proofpoint has detected phishing emails impersonating Coldcard, inviting users to complete a "hardware audit" with links to a cloned website. After clicking, users download a batch file hosted on GitHub that installs the remote access tool ScreenConnect.
Proofpoint stated that the fraudulent website also features a customer service chat window, where real people guide victims through the installation process. This remote access tool can provide attackers with a pathway to steal data and funds, or further deploy malicious programs such as ransomware.
Galaxy Research has confirmed three rounds of theft since July 30, with high-confidence losses of 1,596 BTC, exceeding $100 million; if a fourth round not yet confirmed with victims is included, total losses could reach $130 million.
Security firm Proofpoint has detected phishing emails impersonating Coldcard, inviting users to complete a "hardware audit" with links to a cloned website. After clicking, users download a batch file hosted on GitHub that installs the remote access tool ScreenConnect.
Proofpoint stated that the fraudulent website also features a customer service chat window, where real people guide victims through the installation process. This remote access tool can provide attackers with a pathway to steal data and funds, or further deploy malicious programs such as ransomware.
Galaxy Research has confirmed three rounds of theft since July 30, with high-confidence losses of 1,596 BTC, exceeding $100 million; if a fourth round not yet confirmed with victims is included, total losses could reach $130 million.
