Official OpenAI X Account Falls Victim to Crypto Scam

Crypto Reporter

Shalini Nagarajan

Crypto Reporter

Shalini Nagarajan

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Shalini is a crypto reporter who provides in-depth reports on daily developments and regulatory shifts in the cryptocurrency sector.

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Last updated:

September 23, 2024 23:44 EDT

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Hackers took over an official OpenAI X account on Monday evening to promote a cryptocurrency scam. Around 7:00pm ET, the @OpenAINewsroom account, which normally shares OpenAI news with nearly 54,000 followers, posted about an “$OPENAI” token. The post was later deleted.

“We’re very happy to announce $OPEANAI: the token bridging the gap between Al and blockchain technology,” the post said. “All OpenAI users are eligible to claim a piece of $OPENAI’s initial supply. Holding $OPENAI will grant access to all of our future beta programs.”

The tweet contained a link leading to a counterfeit OpenAI website.

Image Source: Jay Peters/The Verge

OpenAI didn’t return Cryptonews’ request for comment by press time.

Prior to the press account breach, an OpenAI security team member sent an internal memo warning employees about a rise in account takeovers targeting staff. The memo, reported by Bloomberg, also provided tips on improving account security.

OpenAI X Accounts Targeted in Crypto Scams Amidst Industry Losses

The AI research firm’s Twitter accounts have been targeted in crypto-related scams before. On Sunday, OpenAI researcher Jason Wei had his account used to promote a fake $OPENAI token launch. Separately, both Jakub Pachocki, OpenAI’s Chief Scientist, and Mira Murati, the Chief Technology Officer, experienced brief account takeovers.

In August, cryptocurrency scams surged, leading to losses of $310m, making it the second highest monthly loss in 2024. According to blockchain security firm CertiK, $10.3m was recovered or returned, leaving a net loss of $300.6m.

The largest breach this year occurred on July 18, targeting Indian exchange WazirX, resulting in over $230m in losses—86.4% of the month’s total. Investigations suggest North Korean cybercriminals were likely behind the attack, though this hasn’t been officially confirmed.