Cryptocurrency hardware wallet manufacturer Ledger recently confirmed that its third-party e-commerce partner Global-e suffered a data breach, resulting in the theft of personal information from some customers who purchased cold wallet products through the official online store. The incident has raised concerns in the cryptocurrency community about the security of cold wallets and hardware wallets.
The customer's private key was not leaked, but the user's name and contact information were stolen.
According to Ledger, the incident did not involve private keys, wallet funds, or payment information, but the leaked data included user names and contact information. Security researchers pointed out that if this type of information falls into the wrong hands, it could still be used for targeted scams, social engineering attacks, or even pose real-world threats (such as robbery). Within hours of the data breach news breaking, users reported receiving numerous phishing emails and scam messages. Attackers also impersonated Ledger or Global-e customer service personnel, using the leaked personal information to build trust and pressure users with claims of "account anomalies" or "device replacement needs to be replaced," inducing them to provide sensitive information. This is not the first time Ledger has experienced a data breach. In 2020, the company suffered a large-scale data breach affecting nearly 300,000 users; in 2021, scammers even sent counterfeit Ledger hardware wallets in a phishing attack. Security researchers pointed out that in the past, wallet theft, financial losses, and even, in extreme cases, physical threats of violence against cryptocurrency holders have indeed occurred after these incidents.
Experts say that preventing social engineering and protecting personal data are of utmost importance.
Experts say the risks aren't limited to users whose data has been leaked. Anyone perceived as holding a hardware wallet or crypto assets could become a target for phishing or social engineering attacks. Zengo Wallet CEO and wallet security expert Ouriel Ohayon points out that users whose personal data has been leaked are now clearly targeted and face even greater risks. Being contacted by customer service personnel is a red flag; never share seed phrase or other personal information with anyone. Users should verify the actual sender of emails and avoid replying to unsolicited private messages or "customer service messages" received through unofficial channels, especially emails, instant messaging applications, or even paper mail.
Alexander Urbelis, Chief Information Security Officer at ENS, cautioned that the type of data breached affects the level of threat, with physical addresses being particularly sensitive. Once a home address is linked to the identity of a hardware wallet user, the potential risk increases significantly.
Do I need to transfer funds or change my wallet?
Experts warn against rushing into on-chain operations out of panic. Transferring funds doesn't necessarily reduce risk; in fact, hasty actions can introduce new dangers. Once identified as the wallet owner, the location of the cryptocurrency becomes irrelevant. Attackers are now targeting individuals, not the wallets themselves. Transferring funds can sometimes backfire because the transfer is public, and hackers can track the trail. Current scams targeting Ledger users mostly rely on psychological manipulation rather than technical vulnerabilities. Scammers first establish credibility using real names or order details, then create emergency situations to force users to respond quickly. Protecting your personal data is crucial; in emergencies, "Don't Trust, Verify" is the best way to defend against potential attacks.
This article, "Preventive Measures After Ledger Customer Data Leak: Experts Remind Us That Privacy Protection is Paramount," first appeared on ABMedia ABMedia .
