OpenAI Account Hacked to Promote Cryptocurrency Scam

Alert: OpenAI Newsroom X Account Compromised in Cryptocurrency Scam

On the evening of October 16, 2023, the official OpenAI account on X, known as @OpenAINewsroom, fell victim to a cryptocurrency scam, raising alarms about security measures and the potential dangers of online scams.

Details of the Incident

At approximately 6:24 PM ET, the compromised account, which boasts nearly 54,000 followers and shares official updates from OpenAI, made a now-deleted post promoting an unauthorized token named $OPENAI. The message stated:

“We’re very happy to announce $OPENAI: the token bridging the gap between AI and blockchain technology.”

“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.”

This misleading post was accompanied by a fraudulent link leading to a counterfeit version of OpenAI’s official website, which did not feature the rightful domain openai.com.

Potential Risks to Users

Upon investigation, the spoofed site prompted visitors to connect their cryptocurrency wallets to claim the fake $OPENAI cryptocurrency. Experts warn that such solicitations can lead to irreversible financial losses if users act on them without due diligence.

Responses from OpenAI and X

As of the latest updates, neither OpenAI nor X (formerly Twitter) has provided a public comment regarding the breach. The OpenAI Newsroom account, which was launched at the beginning of October, has not addressed the incident directly.

Conclusion: Staying Safe Online

This incident underscores the importance of cybersecurity awareness for all social media users, particularly in the context of cryptocurrency investments. It is crucial to verify information before taking action and to remain vigilant against phishing attempts and scams.

What to Do If You Encounter a Scam?

• Verify Sources: Always check the authenticity of social media accounts and their content.
• Don’t Share Personal Information: Avoid providing sensitive data or connecting wallets to unknown platforms.
• Report Suspicious Activity: Inform the respective social media platform about any scams.
• Educate Yourself: Keep up-to-date with the latest trends in digital scams and cryptocurrency to better protect yourself.