Official OpenAI X Account Falls Victim to Crypto Scam

Last updated:

Crypto Reporter

Shalini Nagarajan

Crypto Reporter

Shalini Nagarajan

About Author

Shalini is a crypto reporter who provides in-depth reports on daily developments and regulatory shifts in the cryptocurrency sector.

Last updated:

Why Trust Cryptonews

With over a decade of crypto coverage, Cryptonews delivers authoritative insights you can rely on. Our veteran team of journalists and analysts combines in-depth market knowledge with hands-on testing of blockchain technologies. We maintain strict editorial standards, ensuring factual accuracy and impartial reporting on both established cryptocurrencies and emerging projects. Our longstanding presence in the industry and commitment to quality journalism make Cryptonews a trusted source in the dynamic world of digital assets. Read more about Cryptonews

Hackers took over an official OpenAI X account on Monday evening to promote a cryptocurrency scam. Around 7:00pm ET, the @OpenAINewsroom account, which normally shares OpenAI news with nearly 54,000 followers, posted about an “$OPENAI” token. The post was later deleted.

“We’re very happy to announce $OPEANAI: the token bridging the gap between Al and blockchain technology,” the post said. “All OpenAI users are eligible to claim a piece of $OPENAI’s initial supply. Holding $OPENAI will grant access to all of our future beta programs.”

The tweet contained a link leading to a counterfeit OpenAI website.

Image Source: Jay Peters/The Verge

OpenAI didn’t return Cryptonews’ request for comment by press time.

Prior to the press account breach, an OpenAI security team member sent an internal memo warning employees about a rise in account takeovers targeting staff. The memo, reported by Bloomberg, also provided tips on improving account security.

OpenAI X Accounts Targeted in Crypto Scams Amidst Industry Losses

The AI research firm’s Twitter accounts have been targeted in crypto-related scams before. On Sunday, OpenAI researcher Jason Wei had his account used to promote a fake $OPENAI token launch. Separately, both Jakub Pachocki, OpenAI’s Chief Scientist, and Mira Murati, the Chief Technology Officer, experienced brief account takeovers.

In August, cryptocurrency scams surged, leading to losses of $310m, making it the second highest monthly loss in 2024. According to blockchain security firm CertiK, $10.3m was recovered or returned, leaving a net loss of $300.6m.

The largest breach this year occurred on July 18, targeting Indian exchange WazirX, resulting in over $230m in losses—86.4% of the month’s total. Investigations suggest North Korean cybercriminals were likely behind the attack, though this hasn’t been officially confirmed.