Hackers recently hijacked Labour MP Lucy Powell’s X social media account to promote a fake House of Commons cryptocurrency, dubbed the “$HOC” coin. Posts from her account claimed this “official crypto” was live and touted as a community-driven digital currency. Although the misleading posts were quickly deleted, this incident highlights the rising risk of cryptocurrency scams. Clicking the link shared led users to a site urging them to connect their crypto wallets and buy various currencies. With a significant increase in reported hacked accounts, experts warn that social media platforms are prime targets for criminals seeking financial gain through fraudulent schemes.
Hackers Target House of Commons MP with Fake Cryptocurrency Scheme
In a startling incident, hackers have compromised the social media account of Lucy Powell, a Labour MP and leader of the House of Commons. This account was used to promote a fraudulent cryptocurrency, falsely branded as the “House of Commons Coin.” The post, featuring the House of Commons logo, claimed that the official crypto coin was now live.
The misleading tweet urged followers to invest in this so-called $HOC coin, claiming it was a community-driven digital currency. Shortly after the posts were made, they were removed, but not before causing concern over the rising threat of cryptocurrency scams.
According to a statement from Powell’s team, immediate actions were taken to secure her account following the hack. They did not provide further comments. Unfortunately, this incident highlights a worrying trend in cybercrime, where hackers exploit social media accounts to mislead and financially exploit unsuspecting individuals.
Previous instances have seen scammers use advanced techniques like deepfake videos to impersonate public figures, further complicating the issue of online safety. From deepfake adverts to fraudulent investment schemes, the risks associated with cryptocurrency scams are growing.
Reports by Action Fraud indicate that last year saw a significant rise in hacked accounts, with over 35,000 incidents reported. Scammers frequently utilize compromised accounts to facilitate investment fraud, making it crucial for users to safeguard their online presence and account information.
For more details on staying safe from scams and securing your online accounts, be sure to follow cybersecurity best practices.
Tags: hackers, cryptocurrency scams, Lucy Powell, House of Commons Coin, online safety, cybersecurity, Action Fraud
FAQ About the Hacked Social Media of the Cabinet Minister
What happened to the Cabinet minister’s social media?
The Cabinet minister’s social media accounts were hacked. The hacker used these accounts to promote a fake cryptocurrency linked to the House of Commons.
Is the cryptocurrency real or fake?
The cryptocurrency being promoted is fake. It has no official backing from the House of Commons or the government.
How can I tell if a cryptocurrency is legitimate?
To check if a cryptocurrency is real, look for official announcements from trusted sources. Always do your research before investing in any cryptocurrency.
What should I do if I see something suspicious on social media?
If you see anything suspicious, do not engage with it. Report the post or account to the social media platform. Always verify information through official channels.
Are there any risks of investing in fake cryptocurrencies?
Yes, investing in fake cryptocurrencies can lead to financial losses. It’s important to be cautious and only invest in verified projects.