Cardano Developer Warns of Suspected Hijacked YouTube Channel

Input Output Group, the development company behind Cardano, has warned users to avoid its official YouTube channel after it began broadcasting a suspicious livestream featuring what appears to be an AI-manipulated video of founder Charles Hoskinson. The stream, which ran for nearly two hours on Friday, was disguised as a town hall event for Project Catalyst, Cardano’s community-driven innovation and grant program.

Scam Promises to “Double Your Wealth”

The manipulated video reportedly directed viewers to scan a QR code with promises of doubling their cryptocurrency holdings, a common tactic used in crypto related scams involving fake celebrity endorsements.

Company Urges Caution Across All Interactions

Input Output Group issued a public warning on social media, instructing users to avoid engaging with the channel until further notice. The company specifically advised against clicking any links, sending funds, or sharing personal information related to content posted there.

This incident reflects a broader pattern of scammers hijacking verified accounts and using AI-generated deepfake videos of prominent industry figures to lend false credibility to fraudulent schemes.