QR Code Transfer Test Eyewash: The Unnoticeable Authorization Trap

Recently, a cryptocurrency scam case that serves as a wake-up call has attracted widespread attention. A user, after conducting what seemed to be a harmless 1 USDT transfer test, discovered that all funds in their wallet had been stolen. This incident highlights the importance of staying vigilant when conducting cryptocurrency transactions.

This article will analyze in depth the operational mechanism of this new type of eyewash and demonstrate its dangers through real cases, aiming to remind users to remain vigilant at all times in cryptocurrency trading.

eyewash analysis

This eyewash method superficially involves transferring funds through a payment QR code test, but in reality, it is a technique for stealing wallet authorization.

Fraudsters typically establish initial contact with target users on social platforms and gradually gain their trust. Subsequently, they throw out an enticing over-the-counter (OTC) proposal, usually at an exchange rate slightly below the market price to attract users. To further increase credibility, fraudsters will first transfer a small amount of USDT to the user and generously offer TRX as a transaction fee.

After this series of "goodwill" actions, the scammers will send a payment QR code, asking users to conduct a small return payment test. At this point, users may believe that the risk has been minimized, and will scan the code to return the payment as requested. However, it is this seemingly harmless action that leads to the total loss of funds.

Technical Analysis

By analyzing the QR code in a practical case, we found that scanning it redirects to a third-party website. Although the website's page is crude, it mimics the interface of a well-known trading platform, easily misleading inexperienced users.

When users enter the specified amount on this interface and click "Next", they will be redirected to the wallet's signing interface. Once the user confirms here, it will trigger an interaction with the smart contract, leading to the theft of the wallet authorization. The scammer can then use this authorization to transfer all of the victim's assets.

Capital Flow Analysis

Through the analysis of an involved address, it was found that within just one week, 27 suspected victims were deceived out of nearly 120,000 USDT. After multiple transfers, these funds ultimately flowed into several exchange accounts for laundering.

Although the anonymous nature of blockchain increases the difficulty of tracking, we have discovered some clues that may be associated with real identities by analyzing the sources of initial transaction fees. This provides potential breakthroughs for subsequent investigations.

Safety Recommendations

1. For over-the-counter transactions, be sure to carefully verify the identity of the other party.
2. Do not trust unknown QR codes or links.
3. It is very important to conduct a risk assessment of the counterparty's address before the transaction.
4. Using reliable risk screening tools helps to identify potential risks.
5. If you unfortunately become a victim, you should promptly contact law enforcement to file a report.

In the field of cryptocurrency, security is always the top priority. Users should remain vigilant and treat every transaction with caution, especially when it involves authorization operations. By raising security awareness and utilizing appropriate tools, we can significantly reduce the risk of becoming victims of eyewash.