Binance Not Liable for User’s $1M Loss, Co-Founder Claims

Maxwell Mutuma
June 4, 2024
Why Trust CoinGape
CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights to our readers. Our journal analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.
Binance Clarifies Stance Amid WazirX-Liminal Custody Blame Game

Highlights

  • Yi He emphasized that the $1 million loss was due to the user's own compromised computer, not a security flaw in Binance's platform.
  • Nakamao alleged that a hacker used a malicious plug-in to manipulate his account, leading to significant financial losses.
  • Binance responded swiftly to the security breach, freezing the affected account just over a minute after the freeze request.

Binance Co-Founder Yi He has publicly addressed allegations surrounding a security breach that reportedly led to a user losing $1 million in cryptocurrency. He stressed that the loss was due to the user’s compromised personal computer and not Binance’s platform security flaw. This statement follows accusations from a crypto trader, Nakamao, who claimed a significant loss through manipulated trades on his account.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Yi He Denies Binance Fault in Hack

Yi He clarified the situation in a detailed response, explaining that the user’s account was accessed via a compromised computer. According to her, the crypto hacker sold the victim’s cryptocurrency after gaining access, which resulted in trading losses. He emphasized that Binance’s security systems were intact, and the breach did not stem from the platform itself. “Look closely; this user’s account was breached because their computer was hacked; they are a lost cause,” He wrote in a public statement.

Meanwhile, Nakamao provided a different perspective, stating that the hacker manipulated his Binance account by controlling his web cookies. “Afterwards, the security company told me the hacker was manipulating my account by holding my web cookies hostage,” he explained. He described how the hacker executed transactions in highly liquid USDT trading pairs and placed unreasonable sell orders in less liquid pairs like BTC and USDC.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Binance Quick to Freeze Hacked User Account

In response to the incident, Binance’s customer service department claimed the breach was conducted through a malicious plug-in that allowed the hacker to impersonate Nakamao. The service team acted swiftly, freezing the affected account within one minute and 19 seconds of receiving the freeze request. However, by then, several leveraged trades had already been executed. “We sympathize with your experience, but according to the information we have learned so far, the reason for your asset loss is that your related devices were manipulated because of the installation of malicious plug-ins,” Binance’s statement detailed.

Despite the quick action, Nakamao contested Binance’s explanation and handling of the situation. He alleged that Binance had prior knowledge of the malicious plug-in and accused the platform of not taking earlier action to warn users. “It turns out that Binance knew about the existence of this plugin a long time ago and even encouraged the KOL to get more information from the hacker,” Nakamao claimed.

Further addressing the issue, Yi He advised users on the importance of maintaining secure login practices, especially regarding active cookie plug-ins. She reiterated that Binance cannot compensate users whose login devices are compromised by their actions. “Binance is not able to compensate users when their login devices are compromised,” she urged users to avoid minor conveniences that compromise security.

Also Read: Terra Luna Classic Votes On LUNC Payout Proposal

Advertisement
coingape google news coingape google news
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.

Why Trust CoinGape

CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights Read more…to our readers. Our journal analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.

About Author
About Author
Maxwell is a crypto-economic analyst and Blockchain enthusiast, passionate about helping people understand the potential of decentralized technology. I write extensively on topics such as blockchain, cryptocurrency, tokens, and more for many publications. My goal is to spread knowledge about this revolutionary technology and its implications for economic freedom and social good.
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.