The OpenAI Newsroom X account was hacked, marking yet another example of cyberattacks targeting major tech companies. OpenAI’s official press account on X (formerly known as Twitter) was recently compromised by cryptocurrency scammers. The hacked account, “OpenAI Newsroom,” posted fraudulent messages promoting a fake blockchain token called “$OPENAI.” The incident highlights how even highly reputable organizations can fall victim to cyberattacks.
The hacked account shared a post announcing the launch of “$OPEANAI,” falsely claiming it would connect artificial intelligence and blockchain technology. It falsely stated that all OpenAI users could claim the token, allegedly providing access to future beta programs. However, the token does not exist, and the post directed users to a phishing website with the misleading URL “token-openai.com.” This fake site mimicked OpenAI’s official website to deceive users.
Phishing Site Aimed to Steal Credentials
The fraudulent website included a button urging users to connect their cryptocurrency wallets, likely intending to steal sensitive login credentials. TechCrunch was among the first outlets to spot the phishing post, which was quickly removed. By disabling comments on the post, the hackers made the attack less noticeable to users at first glance. A follow-up reply on the compromised account promised additional details about the non-existent token later in the week.
This is the fourth time that the OpenAI Newsroom X account has been hacked, causing concerns about repeated breaches. In June 2023, the account of OpenAI’s Chief Technology Officer, Mira Murati, was also compromised to promote a similar fake $OPENAI token. More recently, in June 2024, OpenAI’s Chief Scientist Jakub Pachocki and researcher Jason Wei experienced similar attacks, all involving the promotion of this non-existent cryptocurrency.
According to reports, the scammers behind these breaches used a “crypto drainer” tool. The OpenAI Newsroom X account was hacked using a crypto drainer tool that compromised users’ cryptocurrency wallets. Victims who linked their wallets to the fraudulent site unknowingly allowed the scammers to drain their NFTs and cryptocurrencies.
Widespread Cryptocurrency Scams on Social Media
Cryptocurrency scams like this one have become increasingly common across social media platforms. High-profile accounts of tech companies and public figures have been frequently targeted. In 2020, accounts belonging to Apple, Elon Musk, and even Joe Biden were hacked, sharing a Bitcoin wallet address that promised to double any payments made to it. These types of scams have led to significant financial losses.
The FBI reported that Americans lost $5.6 billion to cryptocurrency scams in 2023, a 45% rise from the previous year. So far in 2024, nearly $2.5 billion has been lost to scams, with more than 50,000 cases reported in the first half of the year alone. The rise in such incidents continues to be a major concern for cybersecurity experts.
Criticism Over Recurring Hacks
OpenAI has faced criticism for the recurring nature of these security breaches. This marks the fourth instance where an OpenAI-affiliated X account has been hacked since June 2023. Despite the quick removal of the posts, neither OpenAI nor its CEO, Sam Altman, has publicly commented on this latest hack. Concerns are growing over the company’s ability to secure its digital presence.
In addition to the social media breaches, a hacker had also accessed OpenAI’s internal forum in early 2023, exposing confidential employee data and communications. Although this attack did not compromise the company’s core systems, the growing number of incidents has raised alarm among security professionals.
Experts have urged OpenAI to strengthen its security protocols, including implementing two-factor authentication for all social media accounts. Dr. Tanishq Mathew Abraham, CEO of the Medical AI Research Center, emphasized the importance of adopting stronger measures to prevent future breaches. With the growing trend of cryptocurrency scams, companies like OpenAI must remain vigilant in securing their platforms from cyberattacks.
Also Read: Sam Altman Shares Tips for Students and Young Professionals’ Success.
