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Hackers used fake crypto conference to target security researchers

cryptobriefing.com • August 21, 2026

Researchers said the campaign used legitimate Google Docs to deliver malware targeting macOS and Windows users.

Hackers posing as representatives of a crypto news site targeted cybersecurity professionals with a fake conference invitation designed to deliver malware, according to TechCrunch and security researchers.

The campaign reached targets through public replies and direct messages on X around the Black Hat and Def Con conferences. Huntress detailed the operation after one of its researchers engaged with the attacker to study the approach.

The attacker shared a legitimate Google Doc presented as a conference planning document, using a fake encrypted sidebar and decryption key to persuade the target to continue. Huntress said the steps could install malware for macOS or Windows.

The campaign reportedly included an infostealer for Apple computers, a repurposed remote-desktop tool for Windows and a fake Ledger crypto wallet installer.

The full story

This article is one source in a clustered incident — the cluster page carries the summary, timeline and every other outlet covering it.

Fake Crypto Conference Lures Security Researchers into Malware Trap A malicious campaign targeted cybersecurity professionals following the Black Hat and DEF CON conferences, using social engineering tactics. Attackers impersonated a CoinDesk executive and sent Google Docs that appeared to be planning documents for a fake conference. The documents contained a Google Apps Script sidebar that prompted users for a decryption key, leading to malware installation. The malware included an infostealer for macOS and a remote access tool for Windows. This campaign highlights the vulnerability of security experts to sophisticated phishing attacks. The attackers leveraged familiar platforms to build credibility and maintain engagement with their targets. The incident underscores the ongoing threat of social engineering in the cybersecurity landscape. 16 sources 55

Hackers used fake crypto conference to target security researchers

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Extracted Entities

Attack Types (2)

Companies (1)

Platforms (3)