Bitcoin Scam Warning: Investigating the Latest Threat
In a comprehensive report dated July 8, BitMEX Research highlighted a significant threat to Bitcoin users. This alert was brought to public attention through a detailed analysis of suspicious activity involving long-dormant Bitcoin addresses, specifically those that have remained untouched since before 2012. These addresses, which hold substantial Bitcoin reserves, have become targets for a new wave of fraudulent activity.
Unveiling the Scam Tactics
The scam involves minuscule “dust” transactions sent to these dormant addresses, each bearing an OP_RETURN message. This message directs recipients to a website masquerading as “Salomon Brothers,” a name reminiscent of a well-known financial institution. The website asserts control over these Bitcoin wallets and sets a deadline of October 5, 2025, for any legitimate owner to prove their ownership. Verification can supposedly be done by signing an on-chain transaction or by submitting personal details through their online form.
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Expert Opinions and Analysis
BitMEX Research has classified this operation as a “Calvin Ayre-style legal scam,” drawing parallels with previous controversial attempts by figures like Craig Wright to claim ownership of Mt. Gox’s lost coins. Security expert @0xZilayo further identified these OP_RETURN messages as likely phishing attempts, lacking any legal standing.
Coordinated Scam Activity Detected
On July 4, coinciding with a major U.S. holiday, blockchain investigators noted a sudden and coordinated movement of 80,000 BTC from eight dormant wallets. These wallets had each received a series of OP_RETURN messages culminating in the “Salomon Brothers” notification. This orchestrated activity points to the scammers’ strategic use of blockchain technology to broadcast their fraudulent claims.
Protecting Your Bitcoin Holdings
BitMEX has issued clear guidance: “Do NOT fill in this form.” Bitcoin holders are advised to move their funds to new wallets if they receive such messages. Only those who possess the private key can legitimately control the assets, and any interaction with the scammers is strongly discouraged. While law enforcement agencies have been alerted, no formal investigations have been confirmed as of yet.
The Broader Implications
This episode reflects a troubling trend where attackers delve into Bitcoin’s past, exploiting technical features like OP_RETURN messages and ambiguous legal frameworks to claim dormant or illicitly obtained coins. The ongoing fascination with the Mt. Gox saga continues to attract nefarious actors, eager to lay false claims to the exchange’s missing assets.
Conclusion: Vigilance is Key
For Bitcoin users, the best defense is skepticism towards any unsolicited blockchain-based legal notices. Ultimately, the possession of the private key remains the sole verifiable proof of Bitcoin ownership, irrespective of deceptive OP_RETURN messages or flashy websites. As of this writing, Bitcoin is trading at a significant value, underscoring the importance of safeguarding your digital assets against scams.
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