Prudence is a mother of security. It is a cry of alarm that Kraken pushes, the famous cryptocurrency exchange platform. His security team, led by Nick Percoco, lifted the veil on a phenomenon as discreet as they are worrying: the blatant negligence of participants in Crypto conferences. Because in the felted spans of these events, between inspiring Keynots and well -watered afterworks, also prowl predators in search of connected prey … and distracted.
- Kraken sounded the alarm on the disturbing negligence of the participants in Crypto conferences, where unlocked devices are full of sensitive data.
- The phenomenon of infected recharge terminals, or « Juice Jacking », has resurfaced, stressing the crucial importance of constant vigilance in the crypto universe.
Open smartphones, unlocked laptops: the safes are wide open
Imagine a full -to -crack lounge of developers, investors and curious people, all eyes riveted on the future of finance. And there, on a table, an abandoned laptop, lit screen, displayed wallet. Next to it, a vibrating phone: “transaction received”. Kraken has seen dozens. Worse: these devices sometimes belonged to renowned projects.
Percoco summary ::
« If you are in the crypto, your device is not just a tool. It’s a key. Access to your wealth, your company, your network. Leaving it unattended is like entrusting your bank card to a stranger in the metro. »»
The high verb, the questionable QR
Another fault: theego and tongue too well hanged. Some participants openly discuss their juicy investments, sometimes miles from the conference, while proudly sporting badges and affiliations. A gold invitation for anyone who would have dubious intentions.
And what about these Qr omnipresent codes ? A simple mischievous sticker, placed over a legitimate code, and it is the portfolio of an unworthy user who empties, as if by black magic.
Kraken also recommends the use of “Wallet burner” – Disposable portfolios containing few funds – to limit the damage in the event of a glitch. A simple precaution, but too often ignored.
The physical rallies, the Achilles heel of the crypto industry?
We thought the time of scams by USB over. However, “Juice Jacking” – these infected charging stations that siphon data and access – makes a comeback in the aisles of the conferences. Not to mention Public Wi-Fi networksreal Spanish piracy inns.
Morality? Always have your own charger. And his own paranoia.
The paradox is cruel: while the Crypto philosophy is based on autonomy and distrust of third parties, a collective candor seems to settle during physical rallies. A guilty relaxation that does not stick with the challenges of a sector where a simple error can cost millions.
In 2025, there are already almost 30 documented cases of physical flights linked to cryptosaccording to Jameson LOPP. Kidnappings, extortion, burglaries: the dangers are no longer virtual, we know that too much in France.
As the web3 wins in visibility, it also attracts its share of sharks. Crypto conferences are no exception. Kraken sends a clear message: security first, always.
So the next time you scan a QR code or leave your laptop for a coffee break, ask yourself the question: « Would I leave my chest key to a stranger in a room full of hackers? » If the answer is no, it is because you understood the lesson.