Cryptocurrencies are becoming more common, and scammers are now targeting crypto wallets instead of robbing banks. Previously, hacking banks and credit cards was very labor-intensive. Then, ransomware became popular. For a long time, attackers have been using various tricks to seize crypto wallets.
Binance Phone Number
While sitting in front of the TV, sipping your tea or coffee, you suddenly receive a startling email. When you check your phone, the email says there was unauthorized access to your Binance account and you need to secure it. Moreover, since this email lands directly in your inbox and not in the spam folder, it seems trustworthy.
The domain sending the email is carefully chosen to be convincing. While you are wondering what is happening, your phone suddenly rings. The so-called “security department (alleged) officer” Kerim Can, mentioned in the email below, calls you.
The person on the other end of the phone, claiming to be from the Binance exchange, sounds very professional. They try to draw you into a pre-planned story convincingly. They say your account was accessed from abroad, they are calling for your security, and they won’t take responsibility if something happens to your account. At this point in the story, our team member Mesut hangs up the phone. But what if he had continued?
Tactics of Binance Scammers
First, the number calling you is a landline number like 0216. This is because 0850 numbers have lost their credibility, so they enrich their story with different elements. However, when you call this number back, no one answers. You get a warning that you dialed the number incorrectly or incomplete. How they achieve this is unknown, but years ago, there was also the famous 155 call incident.
The 155 Police Hotline is a type of line that can only be called from outside and cannot make outgoing calls. However, attackers managed to make it appear as if you were being called from 155. The landline issue here is also a trick related to number masking. If you fall for the story, the scenario would likely be as follows:
- Try to log in from the link sent to your email. (a fake Binance login page prepared by the attackers)
- For your account’s security, I will send you a verification code, tell me this code. (your SMS verification code at login)
At this stage, they would have logged into your account. They could open positions in low liquidity pairs in futures trading to indirectly transfer your money to themselves. Or they could transfer your balance under the pretense of moving it to the Binance Security Vault temporarily, gaining your consent with a story. So, what should you do to protect yourself?
- Do not click on links in the email.
- For emails from Binance or other exchanges, even if they seem to come from an official domain, try to conduct all transactions through the mobile app.
- Hang up on anyone who calls you and talks about crypto. They are very likely to try to scam you in the continuation of the story.
- If you have a large balance, use a cold wallet. For exchange transactions, use a clean computer or phone dedicated to that purpose. Keep these devices turned off when not in use. Open special emails only for that account on exchanges.
