Bitcoin Robbery

[michellee]

I think that is related to how people secure their wallets and prevent the thief from stealing their money. While we can use mobile phones to store our crypto in that phone, we need to keep it hidden from other people who can open our phone and access that phone.

There is a hardware wallet that we can use as a cold wallet and we do not have to carry it anywhere. It will be safe for us to put that hardware wallet in our home and in a place that only we know.

We do not have to tell others that we have crypto and it stores in our wallet because that can attract the same cases as your friend. The security of the wallet will depend on how we can protect the wallet.

[Mpamaegbu]

Here's a reason why you don't blabber too much on how you earn money, you don't know who's listening and you don't know if they are a malicious entity, remember to always be lowkey and if there's an incident like this in a neighborhood, if able to move, you need to move away from that neighborhood.

The blabberings are often products of a need to impress others. It's the youth who fall prey to this as they're always eager to flaunt their material possessions before anyone who cares to look. That's often possibly the cause of most Bitcoin/crypto robberies. Otherwise, robbers won't have that time to ask whether a victim has a wallet or not. Except if it's a robbery that's similar to kidnapping where robbers have their victims hostage. Most robberies are hastily done. The loud mouths should take note.

Anyway , Nice Story OP  you entertained us .

What about the lessons inherent in the story. Didn't you learn a thing or two? Well, I did.

[DarkDays]

Perhaps the best form of security is providing no indication that you own Bitcoin. Tell no one that you have some. Outside of this, there is really no guarantee that you are safe.

To be fair there are no guarantees at all. Being exposed to the market means that inevitably you need to start thinking of measures to prevent you from being assaulted/attacked.

I suppose it makes sense to keep your BTC investment to yourself only and not bring it up unless among trusted people. This is a scary thing and the best we can do on here is make people aware that bad things can happen, and we need to do the best that's in our power to avoid these situations.

[Kakmakr]

So now people will understand why most of us..are not giving our Facebook Identity or our email address or personal information for Air drops or a couple of free tokens. This is what people used to do when Ripple was launched ....back in the day.... they simply gave up their real identity for a couple of tokens.

Also.... all the KYC requirements that you willingly give to obscure new Online casinos... well, you might be giving it to the wrong people.  Your true identity must never be linked to your main "hoard" ....always build a buffer between your main hoard and the accounts you use online. (Use several Mixer services, to break the link) 

[milewilda]

Security is also man basic needs on earth because it’s very devastating and most times deadly when someone steals our valuables. The reason I suggest for a confirmation code for every transaction is simply because bitcoin and most crypto are decentralized making it almost impossible to recover lost coins. There should be a confirmation code sent to our email or phone number during transaction in crypto wallets to originally prove the transaction is being performed by the real owner of the wallet, once  the confirmation code is received via gmail or any other means and has been copied in the appropriate place. This action will automatically confirm the transaction in the wallet.

I have had reports of people complaining of their lost wallets. some where asked to provide the pass codes of their wallets forcefully at gun point. In my locality now this is the modern age robbery. People are much aware about bitcoin and are using this means to steal from innocent bitcoin enthusiasts. My friend was a victim couple of days ago as she was robbed of her valuables and the robbers went further to ask for her blockchain password which she fearfully provided and immediately her bitcoin was wiped away from her wallet. This is so scary and threatening to bitcoin enthusiasts.

Email notifications or sms codes are only plausible on custodial wallets you do say but not into those wallets which are truly non custodial ones because you would really be needing your wallet keys.
Of course you had set out some password too but what most important is the keys because once people had already known about these keys then they do really have the access on your wallet
anytime.Its not new about these crypto crimes that do happen on where a certain user had been hold up and forcefully gets their key or account information.
The thing here is that stay low key and never ever show yourself that you do get involved with crypto.Criminals are just everywhere.

[Zanab247]

Try to avoid fake promises in the forums. Many bitcoin users have displayed their personal details to robbers, thinking they are there to help. Anyone that is ready to help you, will never demand for your wallet details or other details before they can help you.
Try to understand that decentralized currency is different from fiat money. There are many scammers in the forums but if you really understood the rules and regulations of bitcoin, I think no one can robb your bitcoin. Never  you tell anybody about your bitcoin details no matter how close you and the person are in the community . There are some users are just there for robbery but by their character you can identify them in the forum .

[Potato Chips]

OP do you create fake story?

If the robbery only know the blockchain password, how can he able to log in? He need to confirm the confirmation link send to your friend email.

It's possible OP confused PIN with password. If OP's friend was using the blockchain.com app, only the 4 digit pin code is needed in order to access the wallet supposing they do not log out every use.

But getting those authorization emails/OTPs wouldn't be hard cause most people have their email accounts and authenticator app in their smartphones as well. You could password protect these apps, but robbers can just ask this while pointing a gun at you.

I would give the benefit of the doubt for now.

[Zilon]

I have had reports of people complaining of their lost wallets. some where asked to provide the pass codes of their wallets forcefully at gun point. In my locality now this is the modern age robbery. People are much aware about bitcoin and are using this means to steal from innocent bitcoin enthusiasts. My friend was a victim couple of days ago as she was robbed of her valuables and the robbers went further to ask for her blockchain password which she fearfully provided and immediately her bitcoin was wiped away from her wallet. This is so scary and threatening to bitcoin enthusiasts.

When you stay a certain locality you should know how to adapt to such environment. You can't be in a dangerous location and parade your self as a cryptocurrency investor you will be putting your self at high risk. I guess the passphrase and private key owned by each non-custodial wallet holder is enough to secure your coins anything outside that makes it  centralized and will bridge the purpose of the coin. I think people within that area who invest in cryptocurrency should avoid anything that would implicate them

[worle1bm]

Bitcoin wallet, using a hardware wallet will provide those security measures,
needing a passphrase or series of numbers to access the device, sending a transaction
needs the owner to verify each transaction.

Personal security hasnt changed, we need to be vigilant and try to keep our posessions
secure particularly smartphones as they hold so much information. Broadcasting
ownership of Bitcoin publically IMO is a no-no.

Being able to defend ourselves is important, most thiefs are opportunistic.

The funds needs to be used and secured in best possible manner and hardware wallets are the best possible solutions for them rather than keeping them on hot wallets and centralised exchanges having your private keys and you can loose your funds with blink of an eye.There are possible explanation with so many threads related to it but still people pretend they know nothing about it and was not at fault and then loose funds.Make sure about your funds security as hackers are many ways to find about your personal information.Take security measures.

[ShowOff]

Physical threats against bitcoin owners have happened before and we've probably heard of them being discussed several times on this forum. This is not a new story even though the time and place of the events are different.

There are solutions already answered by several users above so I probably don't have many other options to mention. I just want to talk about why financial privacy is so important to prevent bitcoin robbery and physically threaten users. Yes, many people may not realize that there are people out there who are constantly stalking reckless bitcoin users and have a bad habit of exposing their bitcoin holdings in public or in online media. This can increase the potential for experiencing a robbery so that all bitcoins owned will change hands to the robber. I think satoshi knows very well why he had to hide till now and he is not even identified to the public, and yes because bitcoin is money then privacy is mandatory for every user to increase security.

[Lanatsa]

Physical threats against bitcoin owners have happened before and we've probably heard of them being discussed several times on this forum. This is not a new story even though the time and place of the events are different.

Just like on being rich with fiat on where security would really be a big issue when someone do really notice it out that's why its never been great to have some show-off with your riches.

I agree that you should keep quiet that you do hold lots of bitcoin or crypto.When it comes to wallet security then this is something on owners personal responsibility to avoid human error

but if its been brutely asked then you wouldn't really have any choice but to give it on exchange of your safety but not still an assurance that you wouldn't be killed on that situation.

[BITCOIN4X]

~Snip
I think satoshi knows very well why he had to hide till now and he is not even identified to the public, and yes because bitcoin is money then privacy is mandatory for every user to increase security.

That's right mate, when you have a lot of crypto assets (bitcoin or altcoin) then you have to be quiet and maintain your privacy online or in the real world. A person who has tens of thousands of bitcoin in his wallet today would probably never want to talk to any media because they know there is potential danger to come to them if there are no strict security guards. Honestly I will never tell anyone about the actual amount of assets I have, this will give me some percent protection from unwanted things. While people keep exposing the value of their assets on their facebook and whatsapp stories all the time no matter what they will face in the future. When someone realizes bitcoin is money, then they must have security and protect themselves from the potential for unwanted things to happen, robbery for example.

[adzino]

Most wallet has some sort of second password or "spending password" that you can set. When you are about to send a coin, you will have to use that password (they can still access your coins if they have access to your recovery phrase or your private keys!). And like the other user said, most of the centralized/custodial wallets (worst choice. never store your coins on a custodial wallet) have 2fa enabled where you receive confirmation codes on your phone (the thing you are looking for). But you can still lose your coins if the wallet provider loses their coins from their hot/cold wallet. You just have to be careful how and where you store your coins. Take proper precautions and your coins will be safe.

[eaLiTy]

~
I have had reports of people complaining of their lost wallets. some where asked to provide the pass codes of their wallets forcefully at gun point. In my locality now this is the modern age robbery. People are much aware about bitcoin and are using this means to steal from innocent bitcoin enthusiasts. My friend was a victim couple of days ago as she was robbed of her valuables and the robbers went further to ask for her blockchain password which she fearfully provided and immediately her bitcoin was wiped away from her wallet. This is so scary and threatening to bitcoin enthusiasts.

What i do not understand is that how the robbers are aware that your friend is holding cryptocurrency to hold them at gun point and ask for the blockchain password. Even if you are telling is true you can run away with the money without providing further verification like 2 FA before withdrawing.

These things happen if you are foolish enough to advertise your cryptocurrency investment in social media so that the robbers will target you. Just stop those stupid actions and have some common sense if you think that criminals will target you.

[oktana]

People are much aware about bitcoin and are using this means to steal from innocent bitcoin enthusiasts. My friend was a victim couple of days ago as she was robbed of her valuables and the robbers went further to ask for her blockchain password which she fearfully provided and immediately her bitcoin was wiped away from her wallet. This is so scary and threatening to bitcoin enthusiasts.

People are so much aware but do not expose yourself to a $5 wrench! This is the mistake most people make an end up helpless like your innocent friend. There are many people who have Bitcoin, lots of it, but you can never know because they do not loud it. Your friend was not just a random victim because if you think more, you'll realize that not the average person has a Bitcoin wallet. And out of those that have a wallet, not the average has a robbery-worthy amount. So, IMO, this was targeted. Here is a list of such happenings: https://github.com/jlopp/physical-bitcoin-attacks/blob/master/README.md. With the most recent on the list being "Crypto Trader’s Murder Blamed On Social Media Bragging". And here's how you can Protect Yourself From $5 Wrench Attacks.

[TimeTeller]

~
I have had reports of people complaining of their lost wallets. some where asked to provide the pass codes of their wallets forcefully at gun point. In my locality now this is the modern age robbery. People are much aware about bitcoin and are using this means to steal from innocent bitcoin enthusiasts. My friend was a victim couple of days ago as she was robbed of her valuables and the robbers went further to ask for her blockchain password which she fearfully provided and immediately her bitcoin was wiped away from her wallet. This is so scary and threatening to bitcoin enthusiasts.

What i do not understand is that how the robbers are aware that your friend is holding cryptocurrency to hold them at gun point and ask for the blockchain password. Even if you are telling is true you can run away with the money without providing further verification like 2 FA before withdrawing.

These things happen if you are foolish enough to advertise your cryptocurrency investment in social media so that the robbers will target you. Just stop those stupid actions and have some common sense if you think that criminals will target you.

This is the drawback of being open to the social media regarding your crypto involvement.
Some people are really proud of their crypto holdings they will post every thing on their social media.
They will now be the target of these criminals as they know who are easy targets.
Maybe, his friend also know those criminals as they are just living in one area.
For me, there's no need to let the public know that you are into crypto. Just be glad you found it.
And if someone asks your assistance, then, share what you know and educate them.

[Kittygalore]

This is the most vicious of any kind of crime right now, there's a physical violence involved. Hopefully there's some sort of solution in this kind of issue because if the crypto community isn't feeling safe then we won't be able to make the best out of the market because we're terrified of this kind of stuff from happening.

[Assface16678]

Although BTC is non tangible, but those who knew that you own btc can be a big problem for you in the future. Always be lowkey when talking about your earnings. Doesn't matter if they feel suspicious but tell them if they are willing to learn. Btc maybe in tangible but you need to take note that you need to protect yourself, privacy is the key to it.

[Oasisman]

Get a Second phone. Most people only owns one smartphone at a time hence there's a high chance the robber wouldn't be able to think you have another one. Worst case scenario is if they thoroughly check your bag (get a bag with secret pockets!) although IMO most robbers are in hurry and so I don't think this is something highly likely.

If you can, leave your main phone at your house. That would provide better security.

Man, robber would most definitely kill you If you can't provide any, especially If they knew you're into digital and cryptocurrency.
So, I'd like to add something on your idea. Just a put a small amount of asset in that phone you're carrying everyday just to make the robber believe that's the only asset left after a devastating trade or something like that. A made-up stories might spare your life and of course a little asset so he won't get angry for not getting anything from you 

[lumierre]

Security is also man basic needs on earth because it’s very devastating and most times deadly when someone steals our valuables. The reason I suggest for a confirmation code for every transaction is simply because bitcoin and most crypto are decentralized making it almost impossible to recover lost coins. There should be a confirmation code sent to our email or phone number during transaction in crypto wallets to originally prove the transaction is being performed by the real owner of the wallet, once  the confirmation code is received via gmail or any other means and has been copied in the appropriate place. This action will automatically confirm the transaction in the wallet.

I have had reports of people complaining of their lost wallets. some where asked to provide the pass codes of their wallets forcefully at gun point. In my locality now this is the modern age robbery. People are much aware about bitcoin and are using this means to steal from innocent bitcoin enthusiasts. My friend was a victim couple of days ago as she was robbed of her valuables and the robbers went further to ask for her blockchain password which she fearfully provided and immediately her bitcoin was wiped away from her wallet. This is so scary and threatening to bitcoin enthusiasts.

If you link your mobile phone number or email-address to your wallet, you will lose absolutely all privacy and anonymity. I think that those who keep their private keys in safe places and don't tell it to anybody and use mostly cold wallet, will not face robbery, as usually robberies happen because of people negligence, so just be more careful and suspecting.