1. Anatomy of the Fake Safeguard Bot Scam​

The Fake Safeguard Bot scam exploits Telegram’s popularity in crypto communities, using ​social engineering​ and ​malware implantation​ to steal assets. Attackers impersonate influencers on platforms like X (Twitter), luring users into Telegram groups with promises of exclusive airdrops or investment opportunities. Once inside, victims encounter a “Tap to Verify” button that redirects them to a counterfeit Safeguard bot—a legitimate Telegram verification tool. This fake bot mimics authentication steps but secretly injects malicious code into the victim’s clipboard.

For ​Windows users, the clipboard code includes a PowerShell script that downloads malware like ​Lumma Stealer​ or ​Remcos RAT, enabling remote control of the device. ​Mac users​ face commands delivering ​Atomic Stealer, which extracts wallet data and credentials. Mobile users risk Telegram session hijacking, allowing attackers to bypass 2FA and drain linked accounts.

​2. Chain Analysis: Tracing Stolen Funds​

According to ​MistTrack, attackers have stolen over ​**$1.2 million**​ via Solana and Ethereum addresses. For example:

• ​Solana address HVJGvGZpREPQZBTScZMBMmVzwiaVNN2MfSWLgeP6CrzV​ converted stolen SPL tokens to SOL before funneling funds to exchanges like Binance and FixedFloat.
• ​Ethereum address 0x21b681c98ebc32a9c6696003fc4050f63bc8b2c6​ moved ETH through privacy platforms like ChangeNOW and Cryptomus to obscure trails.

These laundering tactics highlight the scam’s sophistication and global reach.

​3. Critical Prevention Measures​

• ​Avoid Suspicious Links: Never click Telegram group invites from unverified X accounts or influencers. Verify URLs and bot names meticulously.
• ​Terminate Suspicious Sessions: If compromised, immediately revoke active Telegram sessions under Settings > Privacy > Active Sessions.
• ​Install Anti-Malware Tools: Use trusted software like ​Kaspersky​ or ​Bitdefender​ to detect clipboard-injected scripts.
• ​Isolate Compromised Devices: If infected, transfer all crypto assets to new wallets, reset passwords/2FA, and format the device.

​4. Why This Scam Works​

The scam thrives on ​FOMO​ during trending airdrops and leverages Telegram’s encrypted environment to evade detection. By disguising malware as “manual verification steps,” attackers exploit users’ trust in Telegram’s security features.