How To Avoid Falling for the DOGEVERSE Pre-launch Scam
The DOGEVERSE Pre-launch Scam, promoted on appsclaim-dogeverse[.]com, is a sophisticated phishing operation. It mimics the appearance and branding of the legitimate Dogeverse ecosystem (thedogeverse[.]com) to trick users into divulging their cryptowallet login credentials. This fake site is a nearly perfect visual copy of the real Dogeverse platform, designed to deceive even the most cautious users.
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The Scale of Cryptocurrency Scams
According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), over 46,000 people have reported losing more than $1 billion to cryptocurrency scams since the start of 2021. These scams account for about 25% of all reported losses, surpassing any other payment method in terms of financial damage.
How the DOGEVERSE Pre-launch Scam Works
The fake DOGEVERSE Pre-launch scam claims to be part of a multi-chain ecosystem involving Ethereum, BNB Chain, Polygon, Solana, Avalanche, and Base blockchains. When users visit the fraudulent site and click the "CLAIM" button, they are prompted to connect their cryptocurrency wallet. An error message then appears, asking the user to connect manually by entering their login credentials. This trick allows scammers to access and steal digital assets from the victims' wallets.
Consequences of Falling for the Scam
Once scammers gain access to a cryptowallet, they can conduct unauthorized transactions, leading to the loss of the stored digital assets. Given the irreversible nature of cryptocurrency transactions, recovering stolen funds is virtually impossible. Victims should immediately change passwords and contact official support if they have entered their credentials on a phishing site.
Common Cryptocurrency Scams
Cryptocurrency scams generally fall into three categories:
- Phishing for cryptowallet login credentials
- Using crypto-draining mechanisms to siphon funds from wallets
- Tricking victims into transferring assets to scammer-owned wallets
These scams often mimic legitimate websites or offer fake promotions, airdrops, giveaways, security upgrades, and more. Examples include fake marketplaces, fraudulent token presales, and bogus wallet connect prompts.
How Scammers Promote Their Sites
Scam websites are often promoted through rogue advertising networks, social media spam, misspelled URLs (typosquatting), intrusive ads, and other deceptive methods. Social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) are common avenues for spreading these scams, often using stolen accounts to lend credibility.
Tips for Avoiding Scam Websites
- Be cautious with URLs: Always double-check the website address before entering any sensitive information.
- Avoid suspicious ads: Be selective about clicking on ads, especially those that seem too good to be true.
- Block unwanted notifications: Do not allow notifications from suspicious websites.
- Avoid dubious websites: Stay away from sites offering pirated content or illegal services.
- Be vigilant with emails and messages: Do not open attachments or click on links in unsolicited emails or messages.
- Download software from trusted sources: Avoid bundled software and always choose custom installation settings to prevent unwanted programs.
What to Do If You’re Infected
If your computer is compromised, use an updated anti-malware program to scan for and remove threats. Regularly update your security software to protect against the latest scams and malware.
By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself from falling victim to sophisticated phishing scams like the DOGEVERSE Pre-launch Scam.
