BitKeep crypto wallets hacked after thieves create 'unofficial' Android app

Quick Take

  • Apple and Google store versions of the app appear to be safe, the company said. 
  • Some $8 million have been stolen so far, PeckShield reported.

BitKeep user wallets have been hacked and funds stolen.

The theft appears to have occurred on unofficial APK package downloads that were hijacked and installed with code implanted by hackers. Some $8 million in assets have been stolen, according to PeckShield, a blockchain security services company.

"Today's currency theft incident is mainly due to the hijacking of 7.2.9 APK. If you are using the APK version, it is very likely that it is not the official version. So please transfer the funds to BitKeep Chrome plug-in wallet as soon as possible, or the app downloaded from the official store, and create a new wallet address and keep your mnemonic phrase safe," the firm said in a Telegram chat.  

BitKeep didn't immediately respond to requests for comment via Telegram.

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BitKeep urged those using the APK version of the app to transfer the funds to a wallet downloaded from another official store such as the App Store or Google Play. 

"If your wallet is stolen, please submit relevant materials in the form as soon as possible, we will figure out the solution and assist as soon as possible," BitKeep said.


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About Author

Christiana is a long-time journalist who has written about markets in the Americas, politicians who stashed cash in their underwear and high-end heels, to name just a few. She previously spent six years at Bloomberg, and her work has appeared in the WSJ, LA Times, Insider, Vogue Business and more. Christiana has a bachelor's degree in English from Pace University and a master's degree in journalism from New York University. She completed a master's degree in media psychology for fun.