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Crypto CEO Warns of 'Elusive Comet' After $100K Hack via Zoom Malware

  • Writer: Sammy Salmela
    Sammy Salmela
  • Apr 16
  • 2 min read

Crypto CEO Jake Gallen speaks out after Zoom scam drains $100K in assets

Article with AI Analysis

Date: April 16, 2025

Source: Cointelegraph, Jake Gallen (X.com), SEAL Security Alliance


Introduction

Jake Gallen, CEO of Emblem Vault, recently experienced a devastating loss of over $100,000 in digital assets due to a sophisticated scam executed via Zoom. The attacker, operating under the alias “ELUSIVE COMET,” used social engineering and malware to take control of Gallen’s computer, drain his crypto wallets, and hijack his online identity.

This incident serves as a wake-up call for everyone in the crypto community the threat landscape is evolving fast, and even tech-savvy professionals are vulnerable.


Zoom Call Turns into Crypto Heist

Gallen was invited to a Zoom interview by someone pretending to be a verified crypto founder with over 26,000 followers on X (formerly Twitter). During the call, the attacker used social manipulation to trick Gallen into enabling a feature that allowed remote access.

What he didn’t know: Zoom’s remote access option is on by default, allowing others to take full control of your computer with a single confirmation. A malware called “GOOPDATE” was quietly installed, allowing the hacker to harvest credentials and access wallets that were believed to be secure including a Ledger wallet.


The Threat Actor Behind the Scam

Cybersecurity firm SEAL has identified the perpetrator as part of an advanced threat campaign linked to a fake venture firm, Aureon Capital. This group reportedly stole millions in digital assets and has fooled others using carefully crafted personas and a fake VC website.

The malware campaign targets people in the crypto space, especially during online meetings. SEAL advises anyone who’s interacted with Aureon Capital to contact them via Telegram immediately.


How to Stay Safe

  • Disable remote access in Zoom settings immediately.

  • Do not install any files during live video calls unless you are absolutely sure of the source.

  • Use dedicated, offline devices for hardware wallets and private keys.

  • If you receive invitations from unfamiliar accounts even verified ones double-check their history.


AI-Powered Sentiment Analysis

Our AI analysis of this article revealed:

  • Sentiment Score: 0.13

  • Financial Sentiment: 0.13

  • Polarity Score: -0.035

  • Subjectivity Score: 0.427


These scores suggest that the tone of the article is slightly negative and moderately subjective, reflecting the emotional and cautionary nature of a personal loss and a broader security threat. While factual, the story carries a strong emotional undertone of warning, distrust, and awareness critical for engaging human readers in cybersecurity topics.


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Explore our free sentiment analysis tools at ScoredNews.com



Disclaimer

This article was generated using AI and reviewed for accuracy. The information presented is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. Always consult with a professional before making investment decisions.

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