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MetaMask and 40 Other Crypto Wallets Became New Malware Targets

MetaMask and 40 Other Crypto Wallets Became New Malware Targets

The security researcher 3xp0rt indicates that Mars Stealer, new malware named by its creators, is a strong addition to the information-robbing Oski Trojan of 2019.

The malware attacks browser-based crypto wallets, two-factor authentication extensions along with:

A custom grabber with multiple functions.

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To put it simply, the grabber function steals users’ private keys.

Browser-based crypto wallets that are designed to keep Bitcoin, Ether, and other currencies, always had weaker security, to begin with. Furthermore, the malware attacks wallets that work as browser extensions - Binance Chain Wallet, Coinbase Wallet, and MetaMask. Making the security aspect even more complicated.

Besides these, Nifty Wallet, MEW CX, Ronin wallet, and TronLink are also on the target list. An important factor is that the malware can affect extensions on Chromium-based browsers, therefore, only Opera is in the safe zone. However, Opera and Firefox are both unsafe when it comes to credential-hijacking.

Speaking of which, Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Brave can also be found in the malware target list. Also, once malware does its business in the file that holds sensitive information, it leaves and deletes any tracks of its existence.

After infecting the system, Malware will check the language of the device, if the language is matched with Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, or Russia, the program exits the system without causing any harm.

Individuals who store their crypto assets in browser-based wallets or use browser extensions like Authy to perform two-factor authentication should be wary of clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown files.

At the moment, Mars Stealer is being sold by hackers for $140 on the dark web forums.

Aaron S. Editor-In-Chief
Having completed a Master’s degree in Economics, Politics, and Cultures of the East Asia region, Aaron has written scientific papers analyzing the differences between Western and Collective forms of capitalism in the post-World War II era.
With close to a decade of experience in the FinTech industry, Aaron understands all of the biggest issues and struggles that crypto enthusiasts face. He’s a passionate analyst who is concerned with data-driven and fact-based content, as well as that which speaks to both Web3 natives and industry newcomers.
Aaron is the go-to person for everything and anything related to digital currencies. With a huge passion for blockchain & Web3 education, Aaron strives to transform the space as we know it, and make it more approachable to complete beginners.
Aaron has been quoted by multiple established outlets, and is a published author himself. Even during his free time, he enjoys researching the market trends, and looking for the next supernova.

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