Beware of Wallet-Draining Job Scams in the Web3 Industry
Introduction
In recent years, the web3 industry has become a hotbed for highly skilled scammers, targeting professionals seeking lucrative job opportunities. While phishing scams have received significant attention, job scams in the web3 space have been relatively underreported and less understood. In this article, we shed light on the most dangerous type of job scam - the Wallet-Draining Job Scam. These scams are meticulously orchestrated by technical scammers, making them difficult to detect without deep knowledge and experience.
Identifying the Wallet-Draining Job Scam
Wallet-Draining Job scammers primarily target individuals on web3 and web2 platforms with a vibrant crypto community, such as Twitter, Lens, DeSo, Discord, Telegram, Facaster, and more. To increase their chances of success, scammers seek out individuals with a substantial amount of sellable crypto in their browser wallets. Web3 platforms, with their public connections to users' wallets, make it easier for scammers to identify potential victims.
Modus Operandi of Wallet-Draining Job Scammers
Scammers typically approach their victims through fake recruiters or HR profiles, often portraying themselves as women with attractive profiles and significant social media following. They establish initial contact with the victim, presenting them with a seemingly enticing job opportunity. However, it is crucial to exercise caution when approached by someone, especially if they are attractive, with a job offer, even if they appear legitimate with a blue checkmark or active LinkedIn profile.
The Execution
Once the victim shows interest, scammers direct them to a well-crafted website and invite them to join their community on platforms like Discord or Telegram. The website is designed to appear legitimate, while their Discord/Telegram servers mimic the structure of authentic communities. However, the interactions within these servers are staged, with bots posing as users and fake support requests and comments.
The HR/recruiter then connects the victim with the project/team founder for an interview or further discussions. The founder convinces the victim to download software from their website for the interview or call, claiming it is necessary for the hiring process and to understand their platform. This software, when installed, contains malware or a virus that automatically drains the victim's crypto wallet. Scammers manipulate victims into turning off their antivirus software, claiming it is required for the software to run properly.
Protecting Yourself from Wallet-Draining Job Scams
To safeguard yourself in the web3 industry, exercise caution with the messages you receive in your DMs. Consider keeping your DMs private and accessible only to trusted contacts. When receiving job opportunities from unknown recruiters, conduct a thorough background check on both the recruiter and the company. Utilize LinkedIn to assess the company's employee count, activity level, and the quality of their posts.
Furthermore, avoid installing software or applications until you have been officially hired. Do not disable your antivirus or install flagged software. If a job opportunity appears suspicious or too good to be true, it is likely a scam.
Conclusion
Wallet-Draining Job Scams pose a significant threat to professionals in the web3 industry. By being vigilant, conducting thorough research, and maintaining a healthy skepticism, you can protect yourself from falling victim to these scams. Stay informed, trust your instincts, and remember that genuine job opportunities in the web3 industry exist, but they require careful consideration and verification.
VerifiedCreators is the first multi-chain, native, trustless, and non-KYC identity verification platform designed for web3. We are on mission to build a safe web3 ecosystem where creators, collectors, and investors can flourish.
