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USDCx
Aleo Blockchain Circle Technology USDCx

Circle and Aleo Roll Out USDCx With Banking-Level Privacy Features

 

Aleo and Circle are launching USDCx, a new, privacy-centric version of the USDC stablecoin designed to provide "banking-level" confidentiality while maintaining regulatory visibility and dollar backing. The token is launching first on Aleo's testnet and was built using Circle's new xReserve platform, which allows partner blockchains to issue their own USDC-backed assets that interoperate with native USDC liquidity.

New role of USDCx 

USDCx remains pegged one-to-one with the U.S. dollar, but it is issued on Aleo, a layer-1 blockchain architecture around zero-knowledge proofs for private transactions. Rather than broadcasting clear-text transaction details on-chain, Aleo represents transfers as encrypted data blobs that shield sender, receiver, and amounts from public view. 

Circle and Aleo position this as a response to institutional reluctance to use public blockchains, where transaction histories are permanently transparent and can expose sensitive commercial information or trading strategies. By putting stablecoin predictability together with privacy, they hope to make on-chain dollars more palatable to banks, enterprises, and fintech platforms. 

Despite the privacy focus, USDCx is not an absolute anonymity network. Every transaction contains a "compliance record," which can be viewed by Circle if a regulatory or law enforcement agency wants information, but not accessible on the main chain. Aleo executives claim this to be a "banking level of privacy," which is a middle-ground balance for confidentiality with regulatory support rather than utilizing absolute anonymity methods found in other private currencies.

Target use cases and strategy 

Aleo claims strong interest in inbound usage related to payroll processors, infrastructure, and foreign aid projects, and domestic national security-related application requirements for anonymous but traceable flows. Request Finance and Toku, other payroll service providers, and prediction markets are assessing USDCx to support salaries and wages without revealing income information and strategy to a public blockchain. 

USDCx on Aleo is a part of a larger strategy being undertaken by Circle that involves its xReserve infrastructure and an upcoming stablecoin-optimized Layer 1 network named "Arc," which aims to make USDC-compatible assets programmable and interoperate across different chains. Aleo, which had raised capital from investors such as a16z and Coinbase Ventures for developing zero-knowledge solutions, believes a mainnet launch for USDCx will follow the end of the current testnet period.
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Madras high court
Blockchain cryptocurrency Cyber Security Digital Assets KYC Madras high court

Madras High Court says cryptocurrencies are property, not currency — what the ruling means for investors

 



Chennai, India — In a paradigm-shifting  judgment that reshapes how India’s legal system views digital assets, the Madras High Court has ruled that cryptocurrencies qualify as property under Indian law. The verdict, delivered by Justice N. Anand Venkatesh, establishes that while cryptocurrencies cannot be considered legal tender, they are nonetheless assets capable of ownership, transfer, and legal protection.


Investor’s Petition Leads to Legal Precedent

The case began when an investor approached the court after her 3,532.30 XRP tokens, valued at around ₹1.98 lakh, were frozen by the cryptocurrency exchange WazirX following a major cyberattack in July 2024.

The breach targeted Ethereum and ERC-20 tokens, resulting in an estimated loss of $230 million (approximately ₹1,900 crore) and prompted the platform to impose a blanket freeze on user accounts.

The petitioner argued that her XRP holdings were unrelated to the hacked tokens and should not be subject to the same restrictions. She sought relief under Section 9 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, requesting that Zanmai Labs Pvt. Ltd., the Indian operator of WazirX, be restrained from redistributing or reallocating her digital assets during the ongoing restructuring process.

Zanmai Labs contended that its Singapore-based parent company, Zettai Pte Ltd, was undergoing a court-supervised restructuring that required all users to share losses collectively. However, the High Court rejected this defense, observing that the petitioner’s assets were distinct from the ERC-20 tokens involved in the hack.

Justice Venkatesh ruled that the exchange could not impose collective loss-sharing on unrelated digital assets, noting that “the tokens affected by the cyberattack were ERC-20 coins, which are entirely different from the petitioner’s XRP holdings.”


Court’s Stance: Cryptocurrency as Property

In his judgment, Justice Venkatesh explained that although cryptocurrencies are intangible and do not function as physical goods or official currency, they meet the legal definition of property.

He stated that these assets “can be enjoyed, possessed, and even held in trust,” reinforcing their capability of ownership and protection under law.

To support this interpretation, the court referred to Section 2(47A) of the Income Tax Act, which classifies cryptocurrencies as Virtual Digital Assets (VDAs). This legal category recognizes digital tokens as taxable and transferable assets, strengthening the basis for treating them as property under Indian statutes.


Jurisdiction and Legal Authority

Addressing the question of jurisdiction, the High Court noted that Indian courts have the authority to protect assets located within the country, even if international proceedings are underway. Justice Venkatesh cited the Supreme Court’s 2021 ruling in PASL Wind Solutions v. GE Power Conversion India, which affirmed that Indian courts retain the right to intervene in matters involving domestic assets despite foreign arbitration.

Since the petitioner’s crypto transactions were initiated in Chennai and linked to an Indian bank account, the Madras High Court asserted complete jurisdiction to hear the dispute.

Beyond resolving the individual case, Justice Venkatesh emphasized the urgent need for robust regulatory and governance frameworks for India’s cryptocurrency ecosystem.

The judgment recommended several safeguards to protect users and maintain market integrity, including:

• Independent audits of cryptocurrency exchanges,

• Segregation of customer funds from company finances, and

• Stronger KYC (Know Your Customer) and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) compliance mechanisms.

The court underlined that as India transitions toward a Web3-driven economy, accountability, transparency, and investor protection must remain central to digital asset governance.


Impact on India’s Crypto Industry

Legal and financial experts view the judgment as a turning point in India’s treatment of digital assets.

By recognizing cryptocurrencies as property, the ruling gives investors a clearer legal foundation for ownership rights and judicial remedies in case of disputes. It also urges exchanges to improve corporate governance and adopt transparent practices when managing customer funds.

“This verdict brings long-needed clarity,” said a corporate lawyer specializing in digital finance. “It does not make crypto legal tender, but it ensures that investors’ holdings are legally recognized as assets, something the Indian market has lacked.”

The decision is expected to influence future policy discussions surrounding the Digital India Act and the government’s Virtual Digital Asset Taxation framework, both of which are likely to define how crypto businesses and investors operate in the country.


A Legally Secure Digital Future

By aligning India’s legal reasoning with international trends, the Madras High Court has placed the judiciary at the forefront of global crypto jurisprudence. Similar to rulings in the UK, Singapore, and the United States, this decision formally acknowledges that cryptocurrencies hold measurable economic value and are capable of legal protection.

While the ruling does not alter the Reserve Bank of India’s stance that cryptocurrencies are not legal currency, it does mark a decisive step toward legal maturity in digital asset regulation.

It signals a future where blockchain-based assets will coexist within a structured legal framework, allowing innovation and investor protection to advance together.



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North Korea
Advanced Social Engineering Blockchain Google malware North Korea

Hackers Exploit Blockchain Networks to Hide and Deliver Malware, Google Warns

 



Google’s Threat Intelligence Group has uncovered a new wave of cyberattacks where hackers are using public blockchains to host and distribute malicious code. This alarming trend transforms one of the world’s most secure and tamper-resistant technologies into a stealthy channel for cybercrime.

According to Google’s latest report, several advanced threat actors, including one group suspected of operating on behalf of North Korea have begun embedding harmful code into smart contracts on major blockchain platforms such as Ethereum and the BNB Smart Chain. The technique, known as “EtherHiding,” allows attackers to conceal malware within the blockchain itself, creating a nearly untraceable and permanent delivery system.

Smart contracts were originally designed to enable transparent and trustworthy transactions without intermediaries. However, attackers are now exploiting their immutability to host malware that cannot be deleted or blocked. Once malicious code is written into a blockchain contract, it becomes permanently accessible to anyone who knows how to retrieve it.

This innovation replaces the need for traditional “bulletproof hosting” services, offshore servers that cybercriminals once used to evade law enforcement. By using blockchain networks instead, hackers can distribute malicious software at a fraction of the cost, often paying less than two dollars per contract update.

The decentralized nature of these systems eliminates any single point of failure, meaning there is no authority capable of taking down the malicious data. Even blockchain’s anonymity features benefit attackers, as retrieving code from smart contracts leaves no identifiable trace in transaction logs.


How the Attacks Unfold

Google researchers observed that hackers often begin their campaigns with social engineering tactics targeting software developers. Pretending to be recruiters, they send job offers that require the victims to complete “technical tasks.” The provided test files secretly install the initial stage of malware.

Once the system is compromised, additional malicious components are fetched directly from smart contracts stored on Ethereum or BNB Smart Chain. This multi-layered strategy enables attackers to modify or update their payloads anytime without being detected by conventional cybersecurity tools.

Among the identified actors, UNC5342, a North Korea-linked hacking collective, uses a downloader called JadeSnow to pull secondary payloads hidden within blockchain contracts. In several incidents, the group switched between Ethereum and BNB Smart Chain mid-operation; a move possibly motivated by lower transaction fees or operational segmentation. Another financially driven group, UNC5142, has reportedly adopted the same approach, signaling a broader trend among sophisticated threat actors.


The findings stress upon how cybercriminals are reimagining blockchain’s purpose. A tool built for transparency and trust is now being reshaped into an indestructible infrastructure for malware delivery.

Analysts also note that North Korea’s cyber operations have become more advanced in recent years. Blockchain research firm Elliptic estimated earlier this month that North Korean-linked hackers have collectively stolen over $2 billion in digital assets since early 2025.

Security experts warn that as blockchain adoption expands, defenders must develop new strategies to monitor and counter such decentralized threats. Traditional takedown mechanisms will no longer suffice when malicious data resides within a public, unchangeable ledger.



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Samourai Wallet
Blockchain cryptocurrency Cyber Crime DOJ Money Laundering Samourai Wallet

‘Samourai’ Cryptomixer Founders Admit to Money Laundering Charges

 


Two executives behind a cryptocurrency service called Samourai Wallet have admitted in court that they helped criminals hide more than $200 million.

Keonne Rodriguez, the company’s CEO, and William Lonergan Hill, its chief technology officer, pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges in the United States. Both men admitted they had knowingly operated an unlicensed money-transmitting business that was used to clean illegal funds.

Under the law, Rodriguez and Hill face a maximum prison sentence of five years each, along with financial penalties. They will also have to give up more than $200 million as part of their plea deal.

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) had first arrested the pair in April last year. Prosecutors accused them of two main crimes: running a business without the required license and laundering money, a serious charge that can carry up to 20 years in prison.

Authorities say the two executives built Samourai in 2015 with tools designed to make it harder to track money on the blockchain, which is the public digital record of cryptocurrency transactions.

Samourai’s services worked in two main ways:

• Whirlpool: A mixing feature that bundled together Bitcoin transactions from multiple users. This made it harder to trace where the money originally came from.

• Ricochet: A tool that added extra steps called “hops” between the sending and receiving addresses. This technique was meant to confuse investigators and disguise the money trail.

Prosecutors explained that these tools were heavily used by cybercriminals. They were linked to proceeds from online thefts, drug trafficking, and fraud schemes. According to the DOJ, the scale of activity was massive: between 2017 and 2019, over 80,000 Bitcoin flowed through Samourai’s services. At the time of those transactions, the total value was estimated at more than $2 billion.

While the company portrayed itself as offering privacy, federal investigators say it profited directly from crime. Samourai’s mixing services alone generated more than $6 million in fees for Rodriguez and Hill.

Speaking about the case, U.S. Attorney Nicolas Roos emphasized that when cryptocurrency platforms are abused for crime, it damages public trust and puts pressure on legitimate companies trying to operate within the law.

The case underlines how regulators are cracking down on cryptocurrency “mixers,” services that blend together digital transactions to hide their origins. While privacy is one of cryptocurrency’s appeals, officials warn that these tools often provide cover for large-scale money laundering.

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Technology
Blockchain Cloud Data Digital ID Internet NDAChain Technology

Vietnam Launches NDAChain for National Data Security and Digital Identity


Vietnam has launched NDAChain, a new blockchain network that allows only approved participants to join. The move is aimed at locking down Vietnam’s government data. 

About NDAChain

The network is built by the National Data Association and managed by the Ministry of Public Security’s Data Innovation and Exploitation Center. It will serve as the primary verification layer for tasks such as supply-chain logs, school transcripts, and hospital records.

According to experts, NDAChain is based on a hybrid model, relying on a Proof-of-Authority mechanism to ensure only authorized nodes can verify transactions. It also adds Zero-Knowledge-Proofs to protect sensitive data while verifying its authenticity. According to officials, NDAChain can process between 1,200 and 3,600 transactions per second, a statistic that aims to support faster verifications in logistics, e-government, and other areas. 

Two new features

The networks have two main features: NDA DID offers digital IDs that integrate with Vietnam’s current VNeID framework, allowing users to verify their IDs online when signing documents or using services. On the other hand, NDATrace provides end-to-end product tracking via GS1 and EBSI Trace standards. Items are tagged with unique identifiers that RFID chips or QR codes can scan, helping businesses prove verification to overseas procurers and ease recalls in case of problems.

Privacy layer and network protection

NDAChain works as a “protective layer” for Vietnam’s digital infrastructure, built to scale as data volume expands. Digital records can be verified without needing personal details due to the added privacy tools. The permissioned setup also offers authorities more control over people joining the network. According to reports, total integration with the National Data Center will be completed by this year. The focus will then move towards local agencies and universities, where industry-specific Layer 3 apps are planned for 2026.

According to Vietnam Briefing, "in sectors such as food, pharmaceuticals, and health supplements, where counterfeit goods remain a persistent threat, NDAChain enables end-to-end product origin authentication. By tracing a product’s whole journey from manufacturer to end-consumer, businesses can enhance brand trust, reduce legal risk, and meet rising regulatory demands for transparency."

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North Korea Hackers
Blockchain Crypto workers Info Stealing Malware Job Scam malware North Korea Hackers

Crypto Workers Tricked in Job Scams Involving New Malware Linked to North Korea

 



A new online scam is targeting people who work in the cryptocurrency industry, using fake job offers and interviews to trick them into installing harmful software on their devices.

According to a report by cybersecurity researchers at Cisco Talos, the attack involves a new type of malware called PylangGhost. It is a remote access tool also known as a trojan, built using the Python programming language. Once installed, it allows attackers to secretly control the victim’s computer and steal private data like passwords and session cookies.

The people behind the scam are believed to be tied to North Korean hacking groups, who have been linked to several past cryptocurrency-related cybercrimes. This time, they are pretending to be recruiters from well-known companies like Coinbase, Uniswap, and Robinhood to appear trustworthy.


How the Scam Works

The attackers set up fake job websites that look like they belong to real crypto companies. They then contact professionals in the industry, especially those with experience in blockchain development and invite them to apply for jobs.

Victims are asked to complete technical assessments and share personal details, believing it's part of the interview process. Later, they’re told to prepare for a video interview and are asked to install what is described as a “video driver” to improve camera quality. However, this download is actually the PylangGhost malware.

Once installed, the software can:

1. Steal login credentials from over 80 browser extensions (such as MetaMask, Phantom, and 1Password).

2. Allow attackers to access and control the computer remotely.

3. Stay hidden and continue running even after a system reboot.


Real-World Examples

Researchers say this method has already been used in India and other countries. Similar scams in the past included fake companies like “BlockNovas LLC” and “SoftGlide LLC,” which were created to look legitimate. In one case, the FBI had to shut down one of these websites.

In another incident, engineers at the crypto exchange Kraken discovered that one job applicant was a North Korean hacker. The person was caught when they failed basic identity checks during an interview.

The malware also has a history. PylangGhost is the Python version of an earlier program called GolangGhost, which was used to target macOS systems. The newer version is now aimed specifically at Windows users, while Linux systems appear unaffected for now.


Security Experts Call for Action

Cybersecurity experts in India say this growing threat should be taken seriously. Dileep Kumar H V, director at Digital South Trust, has recommended:

• Regular cybersecurity audits for blockchain firms.

• Stronger legal protections under India’s IT Act.

• National awareness campaigns and better monitoring of fake job portals.

He also stressed the need for international coordination, urging agencies like CERT-In, MEITY, and NCIIPC to work together with global partners to counter these attacks.


Why It Matters

These scams reflect a shift in tactics and deployment of new technologies, from hacking exchanges to targeting individuals. By stealing credentials or gaining insider access, attackers may be trying to infiltrate companies from within. As the crypto industry continues to expand and transcend boundaries, so do the risks, thus making awareness and vigilance more critical than ever.



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quantum cryptography
Blockchain Blockchain Security Chinese Tech Cyber Security Post-Quantum post-quantum cryptography Quantum Quantum Computers Quantum computing quantum cryptography

Chinese Scientists Develop Quantum-Resistant Blockchain Storage Technology

 

A team of Chinese researchers has unveiled a new blockchain storage solution designed to withstand the growing threat posed by quantum computers. Blockchain, widely regarded as a breakthrough for secure, decentralized record-keeping in areas like finance and logistics, could face major vulnerabilities as quantum computing advances. 

Typically, blockchains use complex encryption based on mathematical problems such as large-number factorization. However, quantum computers can solve these problems at unprecedented speeds, potentially allowing attackers to forge signatures, insert fraudulent data, or disrupt the integrity of entire ledgers. 

“Even the most advanced methods struggle against quantum attacks,” said Wu Tong, associate professor at the University of Science and Technology Beijing. Wu collaborated with researchers from the Beijing Institute of Technology and Guilin University of Electronic Technology to address this challenge. 

Their solution is called EQAS, or Efficient Quantum-Resistant Authentication Storage. It was detailed in early June in the Journal of Software. Unlike traditional encryption that relies on vulnerable math-based signatures, EQAS uses SPHINCS – a post-quantum cryptographic signature tool introduced in 2015. SPHINCS uses hash functions instead of complex equations, enhancing both security and ease of key management across blockchain networks. 

EQAS also separates the processes of data storage and verification. The system uses a “dynamic tree” to generate proofs and a “supertree” structure to validate them. This design improves network scalability and performance while reducing the computational burden on servers. 

The research team tested EQAS’s performance and found that it significantly reduced the time needed for authentication and storage. In simulations, EQAS completed these tasks in approximately 40 seconds—far faster than Ethereum’s average confirmation time of 180 seconds. 

Although quantum attacks on blockchains are still uncommon, experts say it’s only a matter of time. “It’s like a wooden gate being vulnerable to fire. But if you replace the gate with stone, the fire becomes useless,” said Wang Chao, a quantum cryptography professor at Shanghai University, who was not involved in the research. “We need to prepare, but there is no need to panic.” 

As quantum computing continues to evolve, developments like EQAS represent an important step toward future-proofing blockchain systems against next-generation cyber threats.
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North Korea cyberattack
Apple Apple MacOS Blockchain Blockchain Technology Crypto Attack crypto community cryptocurrency Cyber Attacks data security Data Theft Mac Mac Malware Malware Attack Malwares North Korea cyberattack

North Korean Malware Targets Mac Users in Crypto Sector via Calendly and Telegram

 

Cybersecurity researchers have identified a sophisticated malware campaign targeting Mac users involved in blockchain technologies. According to SentinelLabs, the attack has been linked to North Korean threat actors, based on an investigation conducted by Huntabil.IT. 

The attack method is designed to appear as a legitimate interaction. Victims are contacted via Telegram, where the attacker impersonates a known associate or business contact. They are then sent a meeting invite using Calendly, a widely-used scheduling platform. The Calendly message includes a link that falsely claims to be a “Zoom SDK update script.” Instead, this link downloads malware specifically designed to infiltrate macOS systems. 

The malware uses a combination of AppleScript, C++, and the Nim programming language to evade detection. This mix is relatively novel, especially the use of Nim in macOS attacks. Once installed, the malware gathers a broad range of data from the infected device. This includes system information, browser activity, and chat logs from Telegram. It also attempts to extract login credentials, macOS Keychain passwords, and data stored in browsers like Arc, Brave, Firefox, Chrome, and Microsoft Edge. Interestingly, Safari does not appear to be among the targeted applications. 

While the campaign focuses primarily on a niche audience—Mac users engaged in crypto-related work who use Calendly and Telegram—SentinelLabs warns that the tactics employed could signal broader threats on the horizon. The use of obscure programming combinations to bypass security measures is a red flag for potential future campaigns targeting a wider user base. 

To safeguard against such malware, users are advised to avoid downloading software from public code repositories or unofficial websites. While the Mac App Store is considered the safest source for macOS applications, software downloaded directly from reputable developers’ websites is generally secure. Users who rely on pirated or cracked applications remain at significantly higher risk of infection. 

Cyber hygiene remains essential. Never click on suspicious links received via email, text, or social platforms, especially from unknown or unverified sources. Always verify URLs by copying and pasting them into a text editor to see their true destination before visiting. It’s also crucial to install macOS security updates promptly, as these patches address known vulnerabilities.  

For additional protection, consider using trusted antivirus software. Guides from Macworld suggest that while macOS has built-in security, third-party tools like Intego can offer enhanced protection. As malware campaigns evolve in complexity and scope, staying vigilant is the best defense.
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Web3
Blockchain cryptocurrency Cyber Attacks CyberCrime Cybersecurity global threat Hacking IT workers North Korea Sanctions Web3

North Korea’s Global Cybercrime Network Uncovered: Fake IT Workers Funding Regime's Ambitions

 

A new report by cybersecurity firm DTEX has exposed how North Korea is operating a sophisticated international cybercrime network by embedding fake information technology workers within leading global corporations. These operatives, disguised as freelance developers, are channeling millions in stolen cryptocurrency to fund the reclusive nation’s military and weapons programs.

According to the report, North Korean agents are not driven by ideology but by a systemic need to survive. Trained from a young age, many are groomed to become covert cyber operatives or IT contractors. Two individuals, using the aliases “Naoki Murano” and “Jenson Collins,” were found residing in Russia and are believed to be involved in infiltrating Western companies. They’ve been linked to a $6 million cryptocurrency theft.

The regime operates through shadowy IT entities like Chinyong, which positions agents in countries like China, Laos, and Russia. These agents gain trust within blockchain and cryptocurrency projects, ultimately diverting digital assets back to Pyongyang. Since 2017, North Korea has reportedly funneled tens of millions of dollars through such schemes—prompting U.S. sanctions for financing weapons development (see: US Sanctions North Korean Entities for Sending Regime Funds).

The report states that North Korea’s cyber program has reached a pivotal stage, with its tactics becoming more aggressive and unpredictable. The regime now deploys techniques ranging from supply chain attacks to financial sector infiltration and even online propaganda. DTEX researchers noted that these operatives are so deeply integrated into major cryptocurrency and Web3 initiatives that, “it would seem that every other Web3 project has a North Korean on the payroll.”

“The threat of unintentionally hiring North Korean IT workers is larger than most people realize,” Kevin Mandia, founder and former CEO of Mandiant, said in a statement accompanying the report. “It's cover is global and active right now - which is why the industry and government need to work together to come up with solutions to counter the threat.”

The study also challenges the notion that North Korean cyber operatives follow rigid roles. Instead, many shift between missions, take on leadership responsibilities, and reuse false identities—suggesting a highly adaptive and fluid structure.

Past investigations have revealed that North Korean attacks on European tech firms were often facilitated by individuals operating from the U.S. and the U.K. An April report by Mandiant warned of increasing attempts by North Korean IT workers to secure positions in defense and government agencies, with U.S. businesses being their primary focus—even as operations grow across Europe (see: North Korean IT Scammers Targeting European Companies).

Michael Barnhart, the lead analyst behind the DTEX report, said his research is based on open-source intelligence, testimonies from defectors, blockchain forensics, and insights from Web3 infrastructure. He also leveraged proprietary datasets from unnamed partners to trace how North Korean agents shift money, access, and identities across borders.

“DPRK operatives are persistent,” Barnhart wrote, adding that North Korean cyber agents “do not take kindly to scrutiny” and “will try to uncover who is studying them and how.”
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WebSockets
Blockchain codebase Credentials Crypto Cybersecurity dataexfiltration dependency devtools Firewall Gmail Hacking malware phishing PyPI python scripts SMTP Spoofing Threatactors WebSockets

Malicious PyPI Packages Exploit Gmail to Steal Sensitive Data

 

Cybersecurity researchers have uncovered a disturbing new tactic involving malicious PyPI packages that use Gmail to exfiltrate stolen data and communicate with threat actors. The discovery, made by security firm Socket, led to the removal of the infected packages from the Python Package Index (PyPI), although not before considerable damage had already occurred.

Socket reported identifying seven malicious packages on PyPI, some of which had been listed for more than four years. Collectively, these packages had been downloaded over 55,000 times. Most were spoofed versions of the legitimate "Coffin" package, with deceptive names such as Coffin-Codes-Pro, Coffin-Codes, NET2, Coffin-Codes-NET, Coffin-Codes-2022, Coffin2022, and Coffin-Grave. Another package was titled cfc-bsb.

According to the researchers, once installed, these packages would connect to Gmail using hardcoded credentials and initiate communication with a command-and-control (C2) server. They would then establish a WebSockets tunnel that leverages Gmail’s email server, allowing the traffic to bypass traditional firewalls and security systems.

This setup enabled attackers to remotely execute code, extract files, and gain unauthorized access to targeted systems.

Evidence suggests that the attackers were mainly targeting cryptocurrency assets. One of the email addresses used by the malware featured terms like “blockchain” and “bitcoin” — an indication of its intent.

“Coffin-Codes-Pro establishes a connection to Gmail’s SMTP server using hardcoded credentials, namely sphacoffin@gmail[.]com and a password,” the report says.
“It then sends a message to a second email address, blockchain[.]bitcoins2020@gmail[.]com politely and demurely signaling that the implant is working.”

Socket has issued a warning to all Python developers and users who may have installed these packages, advising them to remove the compromised libraries immediately, and rotate all sensitive credentials.

The researchers further advised developers to remain alert for suspicious outbound connections:

“especially SMTP traffic”, and warned them not to trust a package just because it was a few years old.
“To protect your codebase, always verify package authenticity by checking download counts, publisher history, and GitHub repository links,” they added.

“Regular dependency audits help catch unexpected or malicious packages early. Keep strict access controls on private keys, carefully limiting who can view or import them in development. Use isolated, dedicated environments when testing third-party scripts to contain potentially harmful code.”
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python
Blockchain cryptocurrency Cyber Attacks Cybersecurity GitHub Hacker JavaScript Linkedin malware python

North Korean Hacker Group Targets Cryptocurrency Developers via LinkedIn

 

A North Korean threat group known as Slow Pisces has launched a sophisticated cyberattack campaign, focusing on developers in the cryptocurrency industry through LinkedIn. Also referred to as TraderTraitor or Jade Sleet, the group impersonates recruiters offering legitimate job opportunities and coding challenges to deceive their targets. In reality, they deliver malicious Python and JavaScript code designed to compromise victims' systems.

This ongoing operation has led to massive cryptocurrency thefts. In 2023 alone, Slow Pisces was tied to cyber heists exceeding $1 billion. Notable incidents include a $1.5 billion breach at a Dubai exchange and a $308 million theft from a Japanese firm. The attackers typically initiate contact by sending PDFs containing job descriptions and later provide coding tasks hosted on GitHub. Although these repositories mimic authentic open-source projects, they are secretly altered to carry hidden malware.

As victims work on these assignments, they unknowingly execute malicious programs like RN Loader and RN Stealer on their devices. These infected projects resemble legitimate developer tools—for instance, Python repositories that claim to analyze stock market data but are actually designed to communicate with attacker-controlled servers.

The malware cleverly evades detection by using YAML deserialization techniques instead of commonly flagged functions like eval or exec. Once triggered, the loader fetches and runs additional malicious payloads directly in memory, making the infection harder to detect and eliminate.

One key malware component, RN Stealer, is built to extract sensitive information, including credentials, cloud configuration files, and SSH keys, especially from macOS systems. JavaScript-based versions of the malware behave similarly, leveraging the Embedded JavaScript templating engine to conceal harmful code. This code activates selectively based on IP addresses or browser signatures, targeting specific victims.

Forensic investigations revealed that the malware stores its code in hidden folders and uses HTTPS channels secured with custom tokens to communicate. However, experts were unable to fully recover the malicious JavaScript payload.

Both GitHub and LinkedIn have taken action against the threat.

"GitHub and LinkedIn removed these malicious accounts for violating our respective terms of service. Across our products, we use automated technology, combined with teams of investigation experts and member reporting, to combat bad actors and enforce terms of service. We continue to evolve and improve our processes and encourage our customers and members to report any suspicious activity," the companies said in a joint statement.

Given the increasing sophistication of these attacks, developers are urged to exercise caution when approached with remote job offers or coding tests. It is recommended to use robust antivirus solutions and execute unknown code within secure, sandboxed environments, particularly when working in the high-risk cryptocurrency sector.

Security experts advise using trusted integrated development environments (IDEs) equipped with built-in security features. Maintaining a vigilant and secure working setup can significantly lower the chances of falling victim to these state-sponsored cyberattacks.
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TON
Blockchain Crypto Cyberattacks CyberCrime Cybersecurity CyberThreat Digital Privacy Technology Telegram TON

Telegram's TON Blockchain Embarks on US Growth Mission

 



A foundation, closely associated with Telegram, called the Open Network (TON), is pursuing ambitious expansion in the United States. A strategic move like this comes amid the expectation that Donald Trump's upcoming administration will be able to offer a more favourable regulatory environment. The TON Foundation is proud to announce a pivotal leadership transition: Manuel "Manny" Stotz, an experienced investor and blockchain advocate, has been selected as President of the organisation. 

There is a new chapter in the foundation's journey to accelerate global adoption of the blockchain, emphasising expanded operations in the United States as part of a strategic expansion plan. In a statement released by a spokesperson for the TON Foundation to Cointelegraph on January 14, a spokesperson confirmed to the Cointelegraph that the US will become one of the most important markets for TON under the Trump Administration. 

The TON Foundation has recently appointed Manuel Stotz, one of the world's leading digital asset investors, as its new president. The foundation will be able to expand its operations in the U.S. market with Stotz, the founder of Kingsway Capital Partners. Stotz stated that the U.S. would soon become a global crypto centre specialising in innovation. Steve Yun, who will remain a board member, will resign from the presidency, and he will be taking over the CEO role. 

In light of the trend that a new president in the US is expected to provide a more favourable environment for cryptocurrency, this shift reflects this expectation. It is expected that his administration will address some of the most important regulatory issues on the day of his inauguration, which is scheduled for January 20, among crypto supporters. Among the concerns is how digital assets are treated by banks, with many in the crypto sector hoping that a change will happen in the rules regarding whether they will be accounted for as liabilities. 

In addition to the issue of “de-banking,” which has impacted many crypto firms in the U.S., another issue that may be addressed is the issue of blockchain technology and its prospects. It has been Stotz's honour to serve as a board member of the TON Foundation since it was founded in Switzerland in 2023. With his new role at the TON Foundation, he will replace Steve Yun, who remains on the board. Stotz is a major investor in the digital asset industry and is the founder of Kingsway Capital Partners, an investment management firm. 

There have been over 50 projects backed by the firm, among them Animoca Brands, Blockchain.com, CoinDCX, Toncoin, Genesis Digital Assets, and others. In the TON Foundation's opinion, the changing regulatory environment in the United States offers new opportunities for blockchain technology. Notably, several industry participants are optimistic about the incoming administration's pro-crypto stance, which includes plans for creating a national Bitcoin reserve and promoting blockchain-based economic reform. 

As President-elect Trump has also indicated his desire to advance the field by appointing influential figures, such as Paul Atkins and David Sacks, to key positions in the sector, it is anticipated that these developments will lead to a surge in blockchain and artificial intelligence innovation. TON Foundation president Stotz believes that these developments may signify a turning point for the industry as a whole, and he believes that the US is an important market for accelerating blockchain adoption worldwide.

A decentralised project called TON is closely related to Telegram's TON blockchain, which was developed by the messenger and then turned into a decentralised project. The Toncoin token allows the network to provide 950 million Telegram users with services such as in-app payments and games, and with Stotz's leadership, TON plans to increase its user base and integrate blockchain-based solutions into everyday applications under Stotz's leadership. 

The main objective of the fund is to use Telegram's vast global audience to promote the widespread adoption of blockchain technologies. With the TON Foundation, which is dedicated to supporting the development of the TON blockchain, Telegram's 950 million users will have access to crypto services through Telegram's platform. In 2023, Telegram formalised the foundation in Switzerland, a year after a 2020 settlement with the SEC ended Telegram's earlier fundraising efforts. 

It was announced in December 2024 that the foundation would be expanding to Abu Dhabi following the ADGM's distributed ledger technology framework. This move is intended to provide legal backing for decentralised projects throughout the MENA and APAC regions, with a target of reaching 500 million users by 2028. In the crypto industry, the return of Trump to power could be considered a turning point in the market as a result. He has announced that cryptocurrencies will be treated differently in the United States of America than they were in the past, which could result in more blockchain projects coming into the country in the future and increased innovation in decentralised technologies. 

Despite this change in leadership at the TON Foundation, the organisation continues to adhere to its mission and values even during this transition and continues to follow through with its objectives. As a board member of the foundation, Steve Yun provides ongoing leadership and direction and Manny Stotz plays a pivotal role in helping to make it a place for growth, collaboration, and innovation in the future. TON anticipates milestones to be achieved in the US over the coming months, which will further enhance the company's reputation as one of the leading blockchain companies in the world.

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AI and Blockchain: Shaping the Future of Personalization and Security

 

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology is revolutionizing digital experiences, especially for developers aiming to enhance user interaction and improve security. By combining these cutting-edge technologies, digital platforms are becoming more personalized while ensuring that user data remains secure. 

Why Personalization and Security Are Essential 

A global survey conducted in the third quarter of 2024 revealed that 64% of consumers prefer to engage with companies that offer personalized experiences. Simultaneously, 53% of respondents expressed significant concerns about data privacy. These findings highlight a critical balance: users desire tailored interactions but are equally cautious about how their data is managed. The integration of AI and blockchain offers innovative solutions to address both personalization and privacy concerns. 

AI has seamlessly integrated into daily life, with tools like ChatGPT becoming indispensable across industries. A notable advancement in AI is the adoption of Common Crawl's customized blockchain. This system securely stores vast datasets used by AI models, enhancing data transparency and security. Blockchain’s immutable nature ensures data integrity, making it ideal for managing the extensive data required to train AI systems in applications like ChatGPT. 

The combined power of AI and blockchain is already transforming sectors like marketing and healthcare, where personalization and data privacy are paramount.

  • Marketing: Tools such as AURA by AdEx allow businesses to analyze user activity on blockchain platforms like Ethereum. By studying transaction data, AURA helps companies implement personalized marketing strategies. For instance, users frequently interacting with decentralized exchanges (DEXs) or moving assets across blockchains can receive tailored marketing content aligned with their behavior.
  • Healthcare: Blockchain technology is being used to store medical records securely, enabling AI systems to develop personalized treatment plans. This approach allows healthcare professionals to offer customized recommendations for nutrition, medication, and therapies while safeguarding sensitive patient data from unauthorized access.
Enhancing Data Security 

Despite AI's transformative capabilities, data privacy has been a longstanding concern. Earlier AI tools, such as previous versions of ChatGPT, stored user data to refine models without clear consent, raising privacy issues. However, the industry is evolving with the introduction of privacy-centric tools like Sentinel and Scribe. These platforms employ advanced encryption to protect user data, ensuring that information remains secure—even from large technology companies like Google and Microsoft. 
 
The future holds immense potential for developers leveraging AI and blockchain technologies. These innovations not only enhance user experiences through personalized interactions but also address critical privacy challenges that have persisted within the tech industry. As AI and blockchain continue to evolve, industries such as marketing, healthcare, and beyond can expect more powerful tools that prioritize customization and data security. By embracing these technologies, businesses can create engaging, secure digital environments that meet users' growing demands for personalization and privacy.
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Blockchain Economy Finance Innovation Jordan Technology

Jordan Approves Blockchain Technology to Boost Innovation


As part of its initiatives to enhance public services and modernize government processes, Jordan has approved the 2025 Blockchain Technology Policy. The Jordanian Council of Ministers unveiled a new policy to improve service delivery to citizens, cut expenses, and streamline administrative procedures. 

This strategy is an integral part of Jordan's broader goal for digital transformation and economic modernization, which also involves promoting startup growth and developing skills linked to blockchain. 

About Jordan’s blockchain technology policy

The 2025 Blockchain Technology Policy aims to revolutionize public administration by integrating blockchain technology into government operations. According to officials, the objective is to decrease delays in governmental workflows, automate procedures, and validate transactions instantly.

The policy places a high priority on preserving citizens' data. The government intends to employ blockchain's secure infrastructure to protect data privacy and boost public trust in governmental organizations.

Key features

The policy is going to assist startups using blockchain technology. This involves developing chances for businesses and providing workers with the skills required to succeed in blockchain-related industries.

Jordan intends to make government transactions more efficient and accessible to citizens and businesses by leveraging blockchain's capacity to record and verify data instantaneously.

In addition, the blockchain's distributed architecture will generate records that cannot be changed, assuring improved accuracy in government reporting and decreasing errors.

Authorities think it will result in improved oversight of government services.

Impact on economy and infrastructure

Jordan has recently expressed an increased interest in blockchain and Bitcoin. In 2022, Jordan saw an increase in crypto activity as citizens sought solutions to unemployment and other concerns, showing blockchain's ability to address economic issues.

Jordan's blockchain program is part of a broader regional trend of using emerging technologies to enhance government operations.

Syria, for example, revealed plans to regulate Bitcoin [BTC] and automate its currency to stabilize its financial sector and draw foreign investment. In the UAE, Dubai has permitted the expansion of blockchain-based payment systems, while Abu Dhabi has established a legal framework for decentralized solutions.

These initiatives indicate a growing interest in blockchain as a solution to economic and administrative difficulties in the Middle East.

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Bitcoin Blockchain Cyberattacks Cyberhackers Cybersecurity CyberThreat Quantum Resistance Solana Technology

Solana Pioneers Quantum Resistance in Blockchain Technology

 


There is no denying that Solana, one of the fastest-growing blockchain networks, has introduced a groundbreaking security feature called the Winternitz Vault. This feature will protect digital assets from quantum computing threats while maintaining the platform's high performance. Solana intends to address the challenges posed by quantum computing proactively to safeguard its users' funds and ensure the longevity of its blockchain infrastructure. 

With the help of a decades-old cryptographic technique, Solana has developed a quantum-resistant vault that uses this technique to protect users' funds from quantum computer attacks. As part of the solution, known as the Solana Winternitz Vault, new keys are generated for every transaction as part of a hash-based signature system. 

The company introduced a system called the "Solana Winternitz Vault" that protects user funds from quantum threats. The vault utilises a hash-based signature system that generates new keys for every transaction, making it highly secure. The chief scientist at Zeus Network, Dean Little, who is also a cryptography researcher, elaborated in a GitHub post that this approach complicates quantum computing and makes it harder for quantum computers to orchestrate coordinated attacks on public keys that are exposed during transactions, diminishing their ability to execute coordinated attacks. Since the vault exists in the current version as an optional feature, rather than as part of the network security upgrade, no fork is in sight. 

As a result, users will need to actively store their funds in Winternitz Vaults instead of regular Solana Wallets if they wish to ensure that their funds remain quantum-proof. Even though the quantum-resistant vault is an optional feature rather than a system-wide requirement, it is important to note that it is still an optional feature. For this enhanced security to be realised, users need to choose to store their funds in the Winternitz Vault rather than the standard Solana wallet. 

The vault's operation includes creating a split-and-refund account system to ensure secure fund transfers while protecting residual balances. The Winternitz Vault, a quantum-resistant solution developed by Solana developers, has been implemented to counter this risk and is based on a cryptographic technique dating back decades. 

As a result of the vault's hash-based signature system, which generates new keys with each transaction, quantum computers are less likely to be able to crack the cryptographic keys because the vault employs a hash-based signature system. Using the Winternitz One-Time Signatures protocol, this vault creates 32 private key scalars that are hashed 256 times. It does not store the entire public key but only its hash for verification purposes. 

It is important to note that every time a transaction is carried out, the vault creates a new set of keys, so no hacker can predict or steal a key before it is used. Solana's Winternitz Vault sets a new benchmark for blockchain security in the face of quantum computing, allowing users to take advantage of the optional tools necessary to protect their digital assets against future threats. 

By implementing this forward-looking strategy, Solana reinforces its commitment to innovation and security that it has always displayed, placing it as a market leader in the blockchain space as quantum computing continues to develop, providing blockchain networks like Solana the flexibility to adapt to new challenges as they arise. It is Solana's goal to stay abreast of such advancements, ensuring its users can be assured that their digital assets can be safeguarded with confidence, regardless of future technological advances. 

Nonetheless, Cornell University researchers have found that breaking an elliptic curve cryptographic key with 160 bits would require approximately 1,000 qubits, which is far more than is currently available. The blockchain industry is still pushing forward despite this. In its beta stage, QAN, for example, claimed it had achieved "quantum hardness," and other protocols have quietly improved their cryptographic foundations. 

In recent years, quantum computing power has been predicted to grow exponentially – a phenomenon known as Neven's Law – and some experts believe that this will happen in the future. This forecast has driven more blockchain developers to implement quantum-resistant solutions, even though full-scale quantum computers are still years or decades away from seriously threatening the current cryptographic standards for coins, tokens, and other applications. Considering quantum resistance as an extra feature for many crypto projects may seem overkill, but Web3 developers are known for always being two steps ahead of the game.

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Bitcoin Bitcoin Vulnerability Blockchain Blockchain Technology Computing Cryptography Cyber Secuirty Encryption Quantum computing

Bitcoin Security Concerns Amid Quantum Computing Advancements

 

Chamath Palihapitiya, CEO of Social Capital, has raised alarms over Bitcoin’s future security, cautioning that its SHA-256 encryption may become vulnerable within the next two to five years. Speaking on the All-In Podcast, he highlighted rapid advancements in quantum computing, particularly Google’s unveiling of the Willow quantum chip featuring 105 qubits. Palihapitiya estimates that 8,000 such chips could potentially breach SHA-256 encryption, underscoring the pressing need for blockchain networks to adapt.

Quantum Computing's Impact on Cryptography

While acknowledging the infancy of quantum computing, Palihapitiya pointed to Google’s Willow chip as a pivotal development that could accelerate breakthroughs in cryptography. Despite scalability challenges, he remains optimistic that the cryptocurrency sector will evolve to develop quantum-resistant encryption methods.

Not all experts share his concerns, however. Ki Young Ju, founder of CryptoQuant, has expressed confidence that Bitcoin’s encryption is unlikely to face quantum threats within this decade.

Satoshi Nakamoto’s Early Solutions

Bitcoin’s pseudonymous creator, Satoshi Nakamoto, had anticipated such scenarios. In 2010, Satoshi proposed that the Bitcoin community could agree on the last valid blockchain snapshot and transition to a new cryptographic framework if SHA-256 were compromised. However, these early solutions are not without controversy.

Emin Gün Sirer, founder of Avalanche, has warned that some of Satoshi’s early-mined coins used an outdated Pay-To-Public-Key (P2PK) format, which exposes public keys and increases the risk of exploitation. Sirer suggested the Bitcoin community should consider freezing these coins or setting a sunset date for outdated transactions to mitigate risks.

Recent advancements in quantum computing, including Google’s Willow chip, briefly unsettled the cryptocurrency market. A sudden wave of liquidations resulted in $1.6 billion being wiped out within 24 hours. However, Bitcoin demonstrated resilience, reclaiming the $100,000 resistance level and achieving a 4.6% weekly gain.

Proactive Measures for Long-Term Security

Experts widely agree that proactive steps, such as transitioning to quantum-resistant cryptographic frameworks, will be essential for ensuring Bitcoin’s long-term security. As the quantum era approaches, collaboration and innovation within the cryptocurrency community will be pivotal in maintaining its robustness against emerging threats.

The ongoing advancements in quantum computing present both challenges and opportunities. While they highlight vulnerabilities in existing systems, they also drive the cryptocurrency sector toward innovative solutions that will likely define the next chapter in its evolution.

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Blockchain Blockchain Technology CyberCrime Cyberhackers Cyberthreats data security HR Payroll Company Technology

Blockchain Innovation Drives Payroll and Employee Data Security in HR

 


In HR, blockchain technology is still in its infancy when it comes to gaining acceptance among the people. Despite this, it stands to be a great boon for the future of work as well. The APQC report indicates that 82% of companies are familiar with blockchain technology, but only 11.7% of businesses have implemented blockchain technology to improve employee performance. It is nonetheless encouraging to see a growing interest in blockchain HR, with 74% of companies planning to experiment with, use, or pilot blockchain technology. 

A blockchain-based HR application can help a variety of critical HR issues, including payroll and recruitment, employee verification, and contract management, to be dealt with more intelligently. Among the latest emerging technologies likely to make waves in the HR space is blockchain technology. Originally, it was designed to serve as the foundation upon which cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum were based. 

There are also many other benefits that blockchain technology can offer, such as decentralization, security, and transparency, which can offer a radical improvement in the management of human resources, particularly payroll management and employee data management. Blockchain is a technology for storing and transacting data on a distributed ledger across multiple computers with multiple users. 

In addition to being secure, transparent, and immutable, it makes records more valuable to the public. The data added to the database cannot be altered or deleted once it has been added. A decentralized system means that no one party has full control or ownership of the data being stored, so fraud and tampering are unlikely to occur because no one party controls the data. To truly grasp the meaning of blockchain technology and its role in protecting the privacy of employee data, one must understand its fundamentals beforehand. 

There is no doubt that at its core, a blockchain is a distributed, decentralized ledger that maintains a record of transactions, and this is done in such a way that makes it impossible to modify the data until that data has been agreed upon by everyone involved in the system. There is no single entity, between the blockchain and all its users, with control over the full blockchain, and because of this, it is intrinsically resistant to malicious attacks because of its decentralized nature.

The traditional way of storing data, whether it's cloud-based or on-premises, relies on centralized databases that operate on a local or remote computer. Due to their centralization, they become attractive targets for hackers because of this. Obtaining access to the central system can give malicious actors the ability to manipulate or steal enormous amounts of data once they have gained access to the system. 

In 2017, Equifax breached its security by exposing the personal details of 147 million people. This acts as a rude reminder of the vulnerabilities inherent in centralized systems and is a clear example of this. There are many different use cases for blockchains in HR, but payroll is one of the strongest ones. Using blockchain technology, organizations can automate and secure payroll processes, which is crucial for organizations to be able to process payments to employees, contractors, and vendors in a timely fashion. 

Payroll systems that utilize blockchain technology can streamline the payment processing process, guaranteeing that all stakeholders are compensated in a timely and accurate manner. In its ability to assist in cross-border payments, blockchain technology has one of the most important advantages regarding payroll. Due to today's globalized working environment, many contractors and gig economy workers don't have traditional bank accounts that they can use for payments. Several local regulations and security problems can hinder traditional electronic payment methods, which can make them more difficult to use. 

Despite this, blockchain payroll systems can provide secure and efficient cross-border transactions through the use of cryptography. ADP, for instance, is already driving the adoption of blockchain technology for the development of innovative payroll applications through its software platform. As a result of the inherent security features of blockchain, these business solutions provide a secure environment for sensitive payroll data by leveraging the features inherent in blockchain. With blockchain technology, employers will be able to ensure that their employees' financial information is confidential and secure, while also allowing them to streamline their payroll process. 

As a result of blockchain technology, recruiters could be able to streamline their verification process and offer a decentralized method of verifying a candidate's identity, revolutionizing the recruitment process. As candidates can create their own secure digital identities on the blockchain, many organizations can verify that they can verify that identity as well. For both employees and candidates, this eliminates the need to submit the same information and credentials repeatedly, reducing the time and energy required for both to submit the same information and credentials. Recruiting systems that utilize blockchain technology are also less expensive than those that use paper-based recruitment methods. 

With the use of the blockchain, employers will be able to easily access and verify candidate credentials and work experience through the secure storage of candidate information. This enables the recruitment process to be completed at a much faster pace and ensures a higher level of accuracy and reliability, which results in a quicker selection and hiring process. With blockchain-based recruitment systems, the time-consuming, error-prone manual verification process is eliminated and fraud risks are reduced due to the streamlined verification process offered by these systems. 

Having all the necessary information secure and kept in a digital format on a blockchain platform, employers can be confident that the candidates they select for interviews and job offers will be able to perform at a high level, resulting in a more efficient and effective hiring process. Furthermore, blockchain technology can also improve the data security and privacy of recruitment data in addition to improving the verification process through blockchain technology. 

It can be argued that a decentralized system of identity verification will give candidates more control over the information that is shared about themselves with potential employers while retaining their privacy at the same time. The HR sector stands on the brink of transformation with the advent of blockchain technology, particularly in areas such as payroll management and employee data security. 

This decentralized, transparent, and highly secure framework has the potential to address longstanding challenges faced by HR, from payroll inefficiencies to growing concerns about data privacy. As organizations increasingly digitize their operations, blockchain in HR represents a pivotal advancement toward a future that is not only more secure but also more efficient for both employers and employees. 

The capacity of blockchain to automate processes, enhance operational transparency, and drive efficiency marks a significant leap forward for HR management. Looking ahead, it is evident that blockchain will play a critical role in shaping the HR landscape. Its ability to streamline payroll, recruitment, employee data security, and contract management is poised to free HR professionals from routine administrative tasks, allowing them to focus on strategic decision-making, employee engagement, and performance analytics. 

Furthermore, the decentralized and tamper-proof nature of blockchain ensures that data is stored securely and is resistant to fraud and manipulation, fostering a greater level of trust within organizations. Though still in its early stages, the adoption of blockchain in HR is expected to accelerate as businesses embrace digital transformation. However, the path forward is not without challenges. 

Issues such as cybersecurity risks, regulatory compliance, counterparty risks, and data privacy will require concerted efforts from HR professionals, IT experts, and regulatory bodies to develop best practices and establish industry-wide standards. In conclusion, the future of HR management is closely tied to the integration of blockchain technology. Its potential to revolutionize processes, enhance transparency, and improve efficiency positions it as a game-changing innovation for the industry. HR professionals and businesses must be prepared to embrace these changes and seize the opportunities that blockchain offers for the future of work.
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Blockchain Meets AI: The Impact of the Artificial Superintelligence Alliance


The Artificial Superintelligence Alliance (ASA), comprising leading AI and blockchain projects such as SingularityNET, Fetch.ai, and Ocean Protocol, has taken a significant step forward by launching a unified token. This move aims to create a more cohesive and efficient decentralized AI ecosystem, with far-reaching implications for various sectors, including the burgeoning field of gambling.

The Vision Behind the Alliance

The ASA’s primary objective is to foster collaboration and integration among decentralized AI systems. By merging their respective tokens—AGIX (SingularityNET), OCEAN (Ocean Protocol), and FET (Fetch.ai)—into a single token called ASI, the alliance seeks to streamline operations and enhance interoperability. This unified token is designed to facilitate seamless interactions between different AI platforms, thereby accelerating the development and deployment of advanced AI solutions.

Decentralized AI: The Future of Technology

Decentralized AI represents a paradigm shift from traditional, centralized AI models. In a decentralized framework, AI systems are distributed across a network of nodes, ensuring greater transparency, security, and resilience. This approach mitigates the risks associated with central points of failure and enhances the robustness of AI applications.

The ASA’s initiative aligns with the broader trend towards decentralization in the tech industry. By leveraging blockchain technology, the alliance aims to create a trustless environment where AI agents can interact and collaborate without the need for intermediaries. This not only reduces operational costs but also fosters innovation by enabling a more open and inclusive ecosystem.

The Role of the ASI Token

The introduction of the ASI token is a pivotal aspect of the ASA’s strategy. This unified token serves as the backbone of the alliance’s decentralized AI ecosystem, facilitating transactions and interactions between different AI platforms. The ASI token is designed to be highly versatile, supporting a wide range of use cases, from data sharing and AI model training to decentralized finance (DeFi) applications.

One of the most intriguing applications of the ASI token is in the gambling industry. The integration of AI and blockchain technology has the potential to revolutionize online gambling by enhancing transparency, fairness, and security. AI algorithms can be used to analyze vast amounts of data, providing insights that can improve the user experience and optimize betting strategies. Meanwhile, blockchain technology ensures that all transactions are immutable and verifiable, reducing the risk of fraud and manipulation.

What it means for the Gambling Industry?

The gambling industry stands to benefit significantly from the advancements brought about by the ASA. By leveraging AI and blockchain technology, online gambling platforms can offer a more secure and transparent environment for users. AI-driven analytics can provide personalized recommendations and insights, enhancing the overall user experience. Additionally, the use of blockchain technology ensures that all transactions are recorded on a public ledger, providing an added layer of security and trust.

The ASI token can also facilitate seamless transactions within the gambling ecosystem. Users can utilize the token to place bets, participate in games, and access various services offered by online gambling platforms. The interoperability of the ASI token across different AI platforms further enhances its utility, making it a valuable asset for users and developers alike.

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Blockchain Social Media Technology Telegram Web3

Telegram Users Cross 900 Million, Company Plans to Launch App Store


Aims to reach 1 Billion followers: Telegram founder

Telegram, a famous messaging app crossed 900 million active users recently, it will aim to cross the 1 billion milestone by 2024. According to Pavel Durov, the company's founder, it also plans to launch an app store and an in-app browser supporting web3 pages by July.

In March, Telegram reached 900 million. While addressing the achievement, Durov said the company wishes to be profitable by 2025.

Telegram looks proactive in adopting web3 tech for its platform. Since the beginning, the company has been a strong supporter of blockchain and cryptocurrency initiatives, but it couldn't enter the space due to its initial coin offering failure in 2018. “We began monetizing primarily to maintain our independence. Generally, we see value in [an IPO] as a means of democratizing access to Telegram's assets,” Durov said in an interview with the Financial Times earlier this year.

Telegram and TON blockchain

Telegram started auctioning usernames on the TON blockchain in December 2018. It has emphasized assisting developers in building mini-apps and games that utilize cryptocurrency while doing transactions. In 2024, the company started sharing ad revenues with channel owners by giving out Toncoin (a token on the TON blockchain). At the beginning of July 2024, Telegram began allowing channel owners to convert stars to Toncoin for buying ads at discount prices or trade cryptocurrencies.

Scam and Telegram

But telegram has been long suffering from scams and attacks from threat actors. According to a Kaspersky report, since November 2023, it has fallen victim to different peddling schemes by scammers, letting them steal Toncoins from users. According to Durov, Telegram plans on improving its moderation processes this year as multiple global elections surface (few have already happened as we speak) and deploy AI-related mechanisms to address potential problems. 

Financial Times reported “Messaging rival WhatsApp, owned by Meta, has 1.8bn monthly active users, while encrypted communications app Signal has 30mn as of February 2024, according to an analysis by Sensor Tower, though this data only covers mobile app use. Telegram’s bid for advertising dollars is at odds with its reputation as a renegade platform with a hands-off approach to moderation, which recently drew scrutiny for allowing some Hamas-related content to remain on the platform. ”

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