The Crypto Scam Epidemic: How Hackers Are Exploiting Influential Accounts

Dear Listers, Cryptocurrency scams have taken a concerning turn, and hackers are now targeting influential social media accounts, including local public figures, media houses, and organisations. These scams exploit public trust in verified social media accounts and reach a wide audience quickly, making them particularly effective. It is high time that the government and technical community take proactive measures to mitigate the financial and reputational harms caused by this kind of cybercrime. We call on other stakeholders including civil society to enhance collaboration to raise awareness about this emerging threat. Together, we can create a safer digital environment that prevents the exploitation of influential accounts and protects the integrity of online interactions. To learn more about these social media-fueled crypto scams and how to protect yourself, visit our latest blog post on the Tatua Digital Resilience Centre website. <https://tatua.digital/cyber-security/the-crypto-scam-epidemic-how-hackers-are-exploiting-influential-accounts/> Stay informed and stay safe! Kind Regards, *Jacinta Wothaya,* *Programme Advisor, Digital Resilience * *Tatua **Digital Resilience Centre <https://tatua.digital/about-us/>* *KICTANet.or.ke* <http://KICTANet.or.ke> LinkedIn: *Jacinta Wothaya <http://www.linkedin.com/in/jacinta-wothaya-510a8b153>* ___________________________ [image: KICTANet Think Tank] [image: Tatua Digital Resilience Centre]. KICTANet: *Transformed communities through the power of ICTs.* Tatua: *Transformed safe communities through the power of ICTs.*

*Re: Rising Cryptocurrency Scams Targeting Social Media Accounts*
Dear Jacinta and Fellow Listers,
Thank you for shedding light on this pressing issue. The increasing exploitation of verified social media accounts for cryptocurrency scams is a serious threat, not only to individuals but also to the credibility of institutions and digital platforms.
While public awareness is crucial, it is equally important for social media platforms to enhance security measures, including stronger authentication processes and faster response mechanisms to compromised accounts. Additionally, regulatory frameworks need to evolve to address these emerging threats without stifling innovation.
Collaboration between the government, tech community, and civil society, as you rightly pointed out, will be key in combating this menace. Looking forward to engaging in further discussions on how we can collectively strengthen digital resilience.
Best regards, Alexander N. Kathanzu
*Linked: www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-kathanzu-a2177b297 <http://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-kathanzu-a2177b297>*
participants (2)
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ALEXANDER NZIOKA
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Jacinta Wothaya