Tourist’s Nightmare In Thailand: $250K In USDT Taken In Hotel Armed Robbery

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As a seasoned crypto investor with years of experience under my belt, I can’t help but feel a sense of unease reading about these recent incidents involving cryptocurrency extortion and armed robberies in Thailand. Having traveled extensively for conferences and meetings, I’ve always prided myself on staying vigilant when it comes to personal security – especially when handling large amounts of crypto.

Cryptocurrencies are frequently targeted by cybercriminals due to their anonymity and lack of oversight. These criminals typically carry out attacks online through hacking and ransomware. In some cases, however, these crimes have extended beyond the digital realm, with instances of robberies occurring in broad daylight. For example, Thai news agencies recently reported that a Ukrainian tourist was robbed at gunpoint last November 8th, resulting in the loss of $250,000 worth of USDT.

Based on a police report, it appears that a person from Ukraine was assaulted by two suspects wielding weapons. Before reaching out to Thai authorities, this individual was compelled to send $250,000 in USDT (a type of cryptocurrency) to these suspects.

Another Coordinated Crypto Extortion In Thailand

Users of cryptocurrencies aren’t just at risk from hacking and ransomware attacks; they also face threats such as physical armed robberies and extortion. For instance, a young Ukrainian tourist was recently assaulted and robbed for approximately $250,000 worth of USDT, as reported by Thai local news on November 10th.

Reports indicate that a robbery occurred on November 8th, specifically in Phuket, Thailand, however, it was not the local residents who were involved in this incident.

Tourist’s Nightmare In Thailand: $250K In USDT Taken In Hotel Armed Robbery

According to recent reports, it’s said that Viacheslav Leibov, a 23-year-old from Ukraine, was part of a scheme to extort money. The police report indicates that Leibov was asked by his friend, Alfred Chernyshuk, another Ukrainian national aged 18, to take a look at his room.

Upon his arrival, Leibov encountered Arman Grigoryan, a 21-year-old from Armenia. Shortly after, two unidentified individuals assaulted Leibov while wearing masks.

According to the police report, it was also revealed that the two assailants possessed a knife and a hammer, and they warned Leibov that they would inflict harm on him unless he moved $250,000 worth of USDT into a specified digital wallet.

Under their threat for his own safety, Leibov complied and moved the specified sum of money. The attackers had him bound to the bed and instructed him not to disclose the event to the police. However, against the assailants’ wishes, Leibox somehow managed to break free and alert the authorities about the incident.

Tourist’s Nightmare In Thailand: $250K In USDT Taken In Hotel Armed Robbery

Cryptocurrency Extortion Now A Serious Concern

Similarly, incidents of hacking and ransomware have been around for a while. However, what’s concerning is that in places like Thailand, crypto holders often encounter fraud and extortion as well. Leibov’s recent ordeal with extortion isn’t an isolated incident in this Southeast Asian nation.

In November, a group linked to a $10 million extortion plot was apprehended by Thai officials. It is said that seven people were implicated in this scheme, among them being six corrupt police officers. This incident has cast a shadow over the reputation of the Thai police force.

Crypto Holders Now Face Security Risks On All Fronts

Typically, individuals dealing with cryptocurrencies, particularly those buying or trading them online, encounter some of the greatest security risks. A prediction states that in 2023, cyberattacks involving cryptos (like ransomware) led to financial losses exceeding $1 billion.

It’s increasingly apparent that even those who use cold wallets for storage encounter problems, as illustrated by the recent reports from Thailand and other popular travel spots.

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2024-11-13 03:41