Blockchain safety firm SlowMist flagged a brand new Linux-based assault vector that exploits trusted purposes distributed via the Snap Retailer to steal customers’ crypto restoration seed phrases.
In a submit on X, SlowMist’s chief info safety officer, 23pds, said attackers are abusing expired domains to hijack long-standing Snap Retailer writer accounts and distribute malicious updates via official channels.
The compromised purposes reportedly impersonate well-liked crypto wallets, together with Exodus, Ledger Stay and Belief Pockets, utilizing interfaces that intently resemble reputable software program.
As soon as put in or up to date, the malicious apps immediate customers to enter pockets restoration phrases, permitting attackers to exfiltrate credentials and drain funds with out customers realizing they’ve been compromised.
Attackers use expired domains to hijack Snap Retailer publishers
The Snap Retailer is the official Linux app retailer used to distribute software program packaged in a format known as “snaps.” It’s generally thought of Linux’s equal of Apple’s App Retailer on macOS and the Microsoft Retailer on Home windows.
SlowMist stated the assault depends on monitoring Snap Retailer developer accounts linked to domains which have expired however had been beforehand related to reputable publishers.
As soon as a site expires, attackers can re-register it and use domain-linked electronic mail addresses to reset Snap Retailer account credentials.
The SlowMist government stated the method permits attackers to quietly take management of established writer accounts with present obtain histories and energetic customers. From there, malicious code could be pushed via routine software program updates somewhat than recent installations.
SlowMist confirmed that two writer domains, particularly “storewise[.]tech” and “vagueentertainment[.]com,” have been compromised utilizing the assault vector. Functions tied to the accounts had been reportedly modified to impersonate well-known crypto wallets.
Associated: 80% of hacked crypto projects never ‘fully recover,’ expert warns
Provide-chain assaults develop as crypto exploits change into extra refined
The Snap Retailer assault vector aligns with a broader shift in crypto-related threats, the place attackers are more and more focusing on infrastructure and distribution channels somewhat than sensible contract code.
CertiK information shared with Cointelegraph in December confirmed that whole crypto hack losses reached $3.3 billion in 2025, regardless of a pointy decline within the variety of particular person incidents.
CertiK stated losses grew to become concentrated in fewer however extra damaging supply-chain assaults, which accounted for $1.45 billion in losses throughout simply two incidents.
The development means that as protocol-level safety improves, attackers are shifting towards higher-impact techniques that exploit belief relationships, software program updates and third-party infrastructure.
Journal: Meet the onchain crypto detectives fighting crime better than the cops
