Smashing Security A crypto con exchange, and soaring ticket scams
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Feb 19, 2025 Cliff Crossland, CEO and co-founder of Scanner.dev, discusses the dark history of the controversial Bitcoin exchange BTC-e and its role in cybercrime. He sheds light on how Alexander Vinnik became a geopolitical chess piece amid international law enforcement efforts. The conversation also dives into the alarming rise of ticket scams targeting concert-goers, where fans are urged to remain vigilant while purchasing tickets. Additionally, innovative data solutions for log management in cybersecurity are explored, showcasing how technology is evolving to combat these challenges.
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BTC-e's Appeal to Criminals
- BTC-e's lack of anti-money laundering controls made it attractive to cybercriminals.
- Anonymity allowed them to conceal illicit funds from ransomware, scams, and other crimes.
Vinnik's Involvement
- Alexander Vinnik, a key player in BTC-e, used the account "Vamnedam".
- Proceeds from hacks, including Mt. Gox's $30 billion bitcoin heist, landed in his account.
Black Sabbath Ticket Frenzy
- Black Sabbath's final show tickets sold out in 16 minutes, frustrating fans.
- Ticketmaster prioritized online sales, leaving many in long queues.