TLDR
- OpenAI’s X handle was compromised in a cryptocurrency deception scheme.
- Hackers advertised a counterfeit '$OPENAI' coin through a deceptive website.
- The fraud was aimed at stealing users' cryptocurrency wallet details.
- This hack is one of several assaults directed at OpenAI profiles.
- OpenAI is delving into the breach and advising users to stay vigilant.
Sam Altman’s OpenAI, renowned in the realm of artificial intelligence, found itself ensnared in a cryptocurrency sham when its X account was hijacked this past Monday.
The breach led to the announcement of a fake crypto coin and phishing attempts targeting users' online wallets.
The hack affected OpenAI’s newsroom The compromised X account, which generally disseminates company news, displayed a dishonest message around 6:24 PM ET, claiming the introduction of a new blockchain token named '$OPENAI'.
The fraudulent message misleadingly suggested that every OpenAI user could claim a portion of this token for early access to upcoming beta versions.
Several warning signs accompanied the post, including the misspelling of OpenAI as 'OPEANAI' and a link redirecting to a phishing website masquerading as the official page.
This fraudulent site displayed a 'CLAIM $OPENAI' button, aiming to swindle users into linking their cryptocurrency wallets. The misleading post was up for about an hour before being taken down.
The OpenAI Newsroom has fallen prey to a hack, promoting yet another fake OpenAI Token.
avoid scam site -> /token-openai[.]com @OpenAI @OpenAINewsroom #phishing pic.twitter.com/STMbBVONbK
— Dominic Alvieri (@AlvieriD) September 24, 2024
Such scams are often traps to gather login details from users, potentially allowing criminals access to victims’ cryptocurrency holdings. Linking wallets to these false platforms can result in financial losses or exposure of sensitive data.
This event isn’t an isolated incident, as OpenAI’s accounts have come under similar threats in recent months. Significant employees, including top scientist Jakub Pachocki and researcher Jason Wei, have had their X accounts compromised for analogous cryptocurrency frauds.
Back in June 2023, OpenAI’s CTO, Mira Murati, also dealt with a breached account used in a cryptocurrency hoax resembling the latest one involving the corporate newsroom.
These cyberattacks form part of a larger pattern influencing influential companies and figures on social networks.
Even the World Health Organization and Yahoo News UK have been victimized by cyber threats using similar methods, targeting users with bogus cryptocurrency schemes like pump-and-dump tactics.
OpenAI has publicly acknowledged the internet security issue and is investigating further. The company has recommended users remain cautious and steer clear of suspicious posts or links promising cryptocurrency rewards.
Despite facing security hurdles, OpenAI is forging ahead with its tech advancements. Next up is a refined voice mode for ChatGPT, designed to boost interactivity and accessibility through voice functions.
