Drake’s X Account Hacked to Promote Solana Memecoin ‘Anita’

Details of the Hack

The hackers used Drake’s X account, which boasts over 39 million followers, to post misleading messages about the so-called “Anita” token. These posts falsely claimed that the token was launched in collaboration with Stake, a crypto betting platform with which Drake has had a longstanding association since 2022.

Leveraging Drake’s brand, the fraudulent coin’s name was cleverly tied to his upcoming “Anita Max Wynn Tour” in Australia and New Zealand. The name “Anita Max Wynn” itself is a play on the gambling phrase “I need a max win,” further adding to the deception.

Promotion of the Fraudulent Token

The posts included a contract address for the “$ANITA” token and featured a cartoon character associated with the project. However, these misleading promotions were eventually removed, but not before they had already made an impact.

An associated X account, claiming to be the official project page for $ANITA, was quickly suspended after the fraudulent activity was detected. Despite the rapid response, the memecoin experienced approximately $5 million in trading volume during the short window of promotion, according to data from DexScreener. This rapid trading suggests that many users were initially unaware of the scam.

The Broader Implications of Such Hacks

The hacking of social media accounts to promote fraudulent projects is not an isolated incident; it is a common tactic employed by cybercriminals in the cryptocurrency world. Other notable artists, including Wiz Khalifa, Cardi B, Doja Cat, and Metallica, have also fallen victim to similar hacks, highlighting the vulnerability of even the most high-profile accounts.

By targeting celebrities and well-known brands, scammers create a facade of legitimacy for their schemes. They exploit the trust and influence these figures hold over their followers, making it easier to lure unsuspecting individuals into fraudulent investments.

Drake’s Connection to Cryptocurrency

Drake has publicly expressed support for digital assets in the past. He has shared posts featuring Bitcoin commentary from notable figures like Michael Saylor on his Instagram account. However, this recent hacking incident has cast a shadow on his association with the crypto space.

Additionally, Drake has recently faced separate allegations from a social media influencer claiming a $2 million loss in a crypto investment deal involving the rapper and another individual. This adds another layer of complexity to Drake’s involvement in the cryptocurrency world, raising questions about the authenticity of such partnerships.

How to Protect Against Cryptocurrency Scams

Given the prevalence of scams in the cryptocurrency space, it is crucial for investors and followers to remain vigilant. Here are some tips to help protect against fraudulent schemes:

• Verify Sources: Always double-check the authenticity of social media accounts and any claims made regarding cryptocurrency projects.
• Research Projects: Before investing in any cryptocurrency, conduct thorough research to ensure it is legitimate.
• Be Wary of Urgency: Scammers often create a sense of urgency to prompt quick decisions. Take your time to evaluate any investment opportunity.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication: For personal accounts, enabling two-factor authentication can provide an additional layer of security.

Conclusion

The recent hack of Drake’s X account to promote the fraudulent Solana memecoin “Anita” underscores the ongoing challenges in the cryptocurrency space regarding cybersecurity. As high-profile accounts continue to be targeted, both celebrities and their followers must remain vigilant against scams. By understanding the tactics used by cybercriminals and taking proactive measures to protect themselves, individuals can help mitigate the risks associated with cryptocurrency investments. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of careful scrutiny in an environment that is increasingly susceptible to fraud.