Mind your sources.
Not long ago, the cryptocurrency community unearthed a serious scam when a fake Ledger Live application appeared on the Microsoft App Store. This incident has led to many users having their digital assets stolen, with losses amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Incident details
The application, named “Ledger Live Web3,” was designed to closely resemble the official Ledger Live app – the computer interface for Ledger hardware wallets. Cybercriminals exploited users’ trust in the Microsoft App Store to distribute this fraudulent software.
The scheme came to light when Blockchain analyst ZachXBT reported it on X (Twitter). Zach identified the thieves address as “bc1qg05gw43elzqxqnll8vs8x47ukkhudwyncxy64q,” and noted that 16.8 bitcoin had been stolen, worth a total of $588,000 (~ 1.5m$ at Q1/2025 price levels ).
Response from Microsoft and Ledger
After news about the fake Ledger Live app spread, Microsoft quickly removed it from its App Store. However, by that time, nearly $768,000 had been stolen from users who believed it was real because it was on a trusted platform like the Microsoft App Store.
After the incident, Ledger reminded users to download the Ledger Live app only from its official web site (Ledger.com). The company has repeatedly warned that third-party sources are not safe, as scammers often create fake apps to steal personal information and cryptocurrency.
This was not the first time a Ledger Live copycat has appeared on the Microsoft App Store. Similar scams were reported in 2022 and early 2023, showing that fake apps continue to be a problem even on the big app store.
This case is a strong reminder that cryptocurrency users must be vigilant about their security. Before downloading any app or entering important information, always ensure it is from the official source to avoid falling for scams.
How to avoid installing a fake Ledger Live app?
- Download apps from official sources: Always download Ledger Live and other wallet apps from the official website of the wallet provider or from trusted app stores like the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Before installing, check the developer’s details, reviews, and user feedback carefully.
- Be cautious with personal information requests: Never share your private key or other sensitive details with anyone, even if they claim to be from Ledger.
- Report fake apps: If you find a Ledger Live fake app on the Microsoft App Store, report it to Microsoft and Ledger immediately so they can take action.
- Use security software: Regularly update security tools and antivirus software to protect your device from threats.
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