Investors in Aave are being targeted in a phishing scam spread through Google Ads shortly after a major growth milestone.
- Aave reached $60 billion in net deposits, becoming the top DeFi protocol.
- Scammers launched fake ads to steal funds via linked wallets.
- Users should verify URLs and revoke wallet access if compromised.
Aave Surpasses $60 Billion in Net Deposits
Aave has become the first decentralized finance (DeFi) platform to collect over $60 billion in net deposits. The announcement came on Wednesday, revealing growth over multiple blockchain networks. A year ago, Aave had around $18 billion. Since then, deposits have more than tripled, showing strong investor confidence.
Phishing Attack Through Google Ads
Just one day after the milestone, scammers started targeting Aave users. According to blockchain security firm Peckshield, fake Aave-related ads began appearing on Google Ads. These links sent users to phishing websites that copied Aave’s interface to look real.
When users clicked the ads and connected their crypto wallets, scammers gained access to those wallets. This allowed them to move funds without permission. Once stolen, these funds are often impossible to recover.
Steps to Protect Your Wallet
Phishing scams usually trick users by pretending to be real platforms. Users should always check the website URL before clicking or linking a wallet. If someone suspects their wallet is at risk, experts advise moving the funds to another secure wallet right away.
Investors should also revoke access to unknown apps using tools like Revoke.cash. The compromised wallet should no longer be used. Scammers often watch these wallets and try again if more funds appear.
To stay safe, users should contact providers only through verified channels and avoid clicking on sponsored ads. Aave has been informed of the issue and is working with security teams.
Source: cointelegraph.com