In the latest wave of phishing attacks targeting crypto users, cybercriminals are distributing fake versions of the popular Ledger Live app to steal users’ seed phrases and empty their crypto wallets. The scam, which mimics the official interface of Ledger’s desktop and mobile app, has already led to the loss of thousands of dollars worth of digital assets.
How the Scam Works
The attack starts when unsuspecting users download a counterfeit Ledger Live app from unofficial websites or phishing links shared through social media, email, or even malicious Google Ads.
Once installed, the fake app prompts users to “recover” or “verify” their wallet by entering their 24-word recovery phrase.
“The moment a user enters their seed phrase, the hacker gains full access to their crypto assets,” said a cybersecurity expert.
This scam is especially dangerous because the fake app closely resembles the official one—making it hard for users to detect the fraud.
What Ledger Says
Ledger, the company behind the popular hardware wallets, has issued multiple warnings about fake apps and phishing campaigns.
“Ledger will never ask you to enter your seed phrase into any app or website,” the company reiterated on its official channels.
They have urged users to only download Ledger Live from the official website and never share their seed phrases under any circumstance.
Protecting Yourself From Seed Phrase Scams
To stay safe from this and similar phishing attacks, crypto users should:
- Download apps only from official websites or verified app stores
- Avoid clicking on suspicious ads or links shared via email or social platforms
- Never enter your 24-word recovery phrase into any software, browser, or app interface
- Enable passphrases and 2FA for added wallet security
Remember: If someone gets your seed phrase, they own your crypto.
Conclusion: A Call for Vigilance in the Crypto Space
The fake Ledger Live scam highlights the critical need for personal security and user awareness in the crypto world.
With hackers becoming more sophisticated, crypto holders must stay alert and follow best practices to protect their assets.
Always verify before you trust. One mistake can cost you your entire portfolio.