BAYC Owner Narrowly Dodges Forbes Scam: Scammers Target NFT Collectors
Forbes Impersonators Attempt to Lure Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) Holders in Elaborate Scam
NFT collector 'Crumz' shared a harrowing experience as scammers posed as Forbes journalists, aiming to distract Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) owners during interviews while attempting to steal their valuable apes. The scam involved a fake Forbes editor, Robert LaFanco, engaging users in interviews and employing diversionary tactics to gain control of their computers for asset theft.
🚨🚨SCAM ALERT!!🚨🚨
— Crumz 🇮🇪 (@crumz10) November 26, 2023
I just spent the last 2hours on Zoom with '@Forbes' it was pretty sophisticated and well thought out because I'm usually on high alert but luckily I wasn't caught. Here's what they did. 🧵1/8
Elaborate Ruse Uncovered: Attempted Distraction with Banana Request
During the fraudulent interview, the scammer requested the BAYC owner, 'Crumz,' to retrieve a banana for a photo. Sensing something amiss, 'Crumz' realized the ploy was a distraction intended to take him away from his computer, enabling the scammer to seize control and pilfer his assets. Quick thinking and awareness prevented a potential loss.
🧵8/8
— Crumz 🇮🇪 (@crumz10) November 26, 2023
Hopefully I'm safe now. Don't think they can still control my computer when I turn it back on.
Please be safe out there, it could've been a dreadful day today
Warnings and Community Vigilance Amidst Rising Scams
Crypto casino Rollbit partner '@3orovik' issued a warning to followers, highlighting the deceptive tactics used by scammers impersonating Forbes journalists.
⚠️ WATCH OUT ⚠️
— borovik.eth (@3orovik) November 27, 2023
A fake Forbes journalist is reaching out to BAYC holders for a fake interview
During this interview he attempts to trick you to gain access to your PC and steal your expensive NFTs
It’s very unlikely Forbes would reach out 👇 pic.twitter.com/ViYrT0mk1l
Other community members, including Laura Rod, reported similar encounters. The BAYC community emphasizes vigilance, and industry observers note the prevalence of scammers on Twitter often using BAYC profile pictures.