Greg Gutfeld’s verified X account was seized by unknown actors who instantly posted crypto‑related spam and messaged followers about fake “votes” to co‑host a non‑existent venture. The breach was spotted within minutes, X’s security team locked the profile, and the scammers vanished before the damage could spread further. You might have seen the suspicious links in your feed, but they were quickly removed.
How the Hack Unfolded on X
The takeover began with a sudden change to the profile picture and bio, followed by a flurry of promotional tweets urging users to click unfamiliar links. Direct messages were sent to dozens of followers, promising exclusive crypto rewards in exchange for “votes.” The tone mimicked Gutfeld’s usual humor, making the scam appear credible.
Scam Tactics Used in the Hijack
- Urgent language that pressures you to act fast.
- Fake giveaways that claim you need to vote or DM for a reward.
- Links that redirect to phishing sites designed to steal credentials.
Protecting High‑Profile Accounts
Security experts stress that layered defenses are essential for any high‑visibility profile. Strong, unique passwords paired with hardware‑based two‑factor authentication dramatically reduce the risk of takeover. Regular monitoring for unauthorized activity and a clear incident‑response plan help contain breaches before they spread.
Practical Security Steps
- Use a password manager to generate and store complex passwords.
- Enable hardware security keys such as YubiKey for two‑factor authentication.
- Set up login alerts to receive immediate notifications of suspicious attempts.
- Review app permissions regularly and revoke any that are unnecessary.
What Users Should Do When Seeing Fake Crypto Posts
If a verified account you follow suddenly starts promoting crypto giveaways, pause and verify the claim through the holder’s official website or other social channels. Legitimate projects rarely ask for “votes” or direct messages to claim rewards. Reporting the post to X and warning your network can help stop the scam in its tracks.
By staying vigilant and applying robust security habits, you can protect both your personal accounts and the broader community from becoming a target of similar crypto‑related phishing attacks.
