Telegram, the popular messaging app, is grappling with a significant increase in Toncoin (TON) ecosystem-related scams, according to a report by blockchain reporter Colin Wu. The layer-1 blockchain, which is closely associated with Telegram, has become a breeding ground for phishing attacks and pyramid schemes.
Blockchain security firm SlowMist has identified numerous phishing links and bots spreading through Telegram groups. These scams often employ fake airdrops and other deceptive methods to compromise users' TON wallets.
"Many phishing links (or bots) are spread through groups, using fake airdrops and other methods to hack assets in users' TON wallets, especially Anonymous Telegram Numbers," Wu quoted SlowMist's findings. Anonymous Telegram Numbers, which allow users to create accounts without revealing their identity, are particularly vulnerable to theft.
In addition to phishing scams, cybersecurity firm Kaspersky reported a Toncoin-focused pyramid scheme operating on Telegram in April. Scammers promote a "super-secret awesome bot" and referral links as a way to earn Toncoin.
"Scammers promote a 'super-secret awesome bot' and referral links as the key to earning Toncoin. In short: you invest your money, buy 'booster' tariffs, invite friends, and earn commission from every coin invested," Kaspersky explained.
The pyramid scheme incentivizes larger investments with the promise of higher returns. Kaspersky's data suggests that this scam has been active since at least November 2023, targeting both Russian and international users.
"The scammers promise earnings from two sources: a fixed payment of 25 TON for each invited friend and commission based on the booster tariff purchased by your referrals," Kaspersky detailed.
The scheme ultimately proves to be a classic pyramid structure, where only the scammers profit while all other participants lose their investments. Kaspersky concluded, "It turns out to be a classic pyramid scheme, where each participant is 'a partner rather than a freeloader'. Sadly, nobody profits except the scammers, and all 'partners' lose their investments."
As Telegram continues to face these challenges, the need for enhanced security measures and user awareness has become increasingly apparent. The platform's close association with the Toncoin ecosystem has made it a prime target for malicious actors seeking to exploit unsuspecting users.
Telegram is an instant messaging and voice-over-IP service developed by Telegram FZ LLC, a privately held company registered in Dubai.Telegram is run by Pavel Durov, the many behind VKontakte, Russian social network overtaken by Putin's regime. Durov had to flee from Russia.
Durov claims that Telegram is extremely secure, offering end-to-end encrypted video calling, VoIP, file sharing, and several other features.
TON, or The Open Network, is a decentralized layer-1 blockchain platform originally developed by the Durov and his team. After facing regulatory challenges, Telegram officially withdrew from the project, and it is now maintained and developed by the open-source community.