Crypto security has become increasingly important with the growth of the blockchain space. One can use various attacks to exploit crypto wallets, exchanges or protocols, with simple phishing attacks or complex exploits using flash loans. In this article, we will cover some of the main attack types.
Ransomware attacks
Ransomware is a cyberattack that locks up an organisation’s data and demands payment in exchange for the release. It can be a profitable business for attackers. But there are some things that you can do to help protect your organisation from a ransomware attack.
One of the most important steps you can take is to back up your critical data regularly. This will allow you to restore your data in the event of a ransomware attack. It would also be wise to keep all your systems up to date and install updates from verified official sources, as they might contain additional security improvements. Another step would be to use antivirus software and keep your sensitive or private information on the dedicated offline device.
Phishing attacks
Cryptocurrency investors and users are a prime target for phishing attacks. These attackers use fake emails and social media posts to lure users to websites that request private key information. They then steal money from these accounts.
This type of attack often involves using an appealing reward. For example, an email may claim that you’ve won a prize. The attacker may then try to coerce you into making a payment through an untraceable method. Phishing attacks are still a leading vector for hackers. They are commonly disguised as genuine emails from legitimate companies, or they use sophisticated replicas of these organizations’ websites. If you’re not sure whether the message is real, you should check the domain – and if there is even a slight doubt, better to report the message as spam and delete it.
Exchange hacks
Cryptocurrency exchanges provide users with a secure way to buy, sell, and store digital assets. Unfortunately, hackers are finding ways to access and exploit these platforms. Hackers are regularly using social engineering to gain access to an exchange’s network. They may steal an email or username and password hash from another website, or they can use a hacking tool to break the hash and gain access.
Many crypto exchanges store user funds on “hot wallets” or cold wallets. These wallets allow for fast transactions. However, these hot wallets are also more susceptible to theft and hackers can easily bypass the security of an exchange.
Guarding Against Exploits
There are various security practices one may follow to guard against exploits or falling victim to a project being hacked. Keeping your private keys safe, and seeing phishing and ransomware attempts for what they are is one thing individuals should do when managing their own assets. When it comes to depositing assets to exchanges or DeFi platforms, one must always check their security and decide whether they feel safe to leave money there. Security audits and bug bounties, security updates with new releases, working with risk management platforms like Apostro https://www.apostro.xyz/product/blockchain-risk-management and Gauntlet – all of it speaks that the project takes its security seriously and can give users more ease of mind.
