Hackers are using bogus Microsoft Office extensions uploaded to SourceForge to spread malware. Cybersecurity firm Kaspersky has warned that the malware is designed to steal cryptocurrency.
One listing, posing as ‘officepackage,’ contains genuine Office add-ins. However, it also hides ClipBanker — a virus that swaps copied crypto wallet addresses with those belonging to attackers.
The malware tricks users by mimicking legitimate Office add-in pages, complete with download buttons and developer-style layouts. Once installed, ClipBanker monitors the clipboard and replaces wallet addresses without users’ knowledge.
It also gathers IP addresses, usernames, and system data, which it sends to the attackers via Telegram. In some cases, the virus checks for antivirus software or previous infections and self-deletes if detected.
Kaspersky noted that the malicious files are suspiciously small or padded with junk data to appear legitimate. While the primary goal is to steal cryptocurrency, attackers may sell access to infected systems to other malicious actors.
The malware’s interface is in Russian, and most victims so far — over 4,600 — have been located in Russia.
To stay safe, Kaspersky advises downloading software only from trusted sources. The company noted a growing trend of hackers hiding malware in pirated or unofficial software to exploit users chasing free apps.
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A blockchain analytics firm has alleged that the team behind the Melania Meme (MELANIA) cryptocurrency moved $30 million worth of tokens. These were taken from community reserves without explanation.
Bubblemaps revealed that the tokens were transferred to a single wallet. They were then dispersed across multiple addresses, with millions already sold or sent to exchanges. Neither the team nor co-creator Hayden Davis has commented on the transfers.
MELANIA was launched in January to coincide with Donald Trump’s return to the political spotlight. Since then, the token has plummeted by more than 96%, dropping from a high of over $13 to just $0.51.
The controversy comes amid declining enthusiasm for memecoins. Both the number of new launches and tokens maturing on Solana-based platforms have dropped significantly since January. The trend highlights a broader cooling in the once-hyped sector.
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Russia’s Federal Tax Service (FTS) has introduced a new online tool to assist crypto miners in calculating their taxes. The tool offers exchange rate data for cryptocurrencies. It helps miners calculate income based on the minimum closing price in rubles on specific dates.
While the tool currently includes data from seven exchanges, such as Binance and ByBit, some major coins like Ethereum (ETH) are missing from the database.
Despite its limitations, the resource aims to simplify the calculation of tax liabilities for digital currency transactions. The FTS emphasises that taxpayers must independently verify the information.
Since the legalisation of crypto mining in Russia, miners must comply with a two-tiered tax system introduced in 2024. Miners earning up to 2.4 million rubles are taxed at 13%, while those exceeding this threshold face a 15% tax.
Miners using over 6,000 kWh of electricity per month must register with the FTS. Fines will be imposed for non-compliance.
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Michael Saylor’s firm, Strategy, may be forced to sell part of its Bitcoin reserves to meet mounting financial obligations. A recent filing warned that the company may struggle to meet obligations without new equity or debt funding.
Strategy holds over 528,000 BTC, acquired for more than $35 billion at an average price of $67,458. Despite this, the company expects an unrealised loss of nearly $6 billion in Q1 2025.
With $8 billion in debt, $35 million in annual interest, and $150 million in dividends, the firm faces significant pressure.
In March, Strategy announced plans to raise $2.1 billion through a perpetual preferred stock offering an 8% dividend. It would fund company operations and allow further Bitcoin purchases. Still, its future hinges on Bitcoin’s market performance.
Bitcoin is currently trading around $76,000, down 10% over the week. While Trump’s tariffs have affected market sentiment, analysts suggest Bitcoin could reach $110,000 as global interest rates fall.
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The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has reiterated concerns about potential financial risks posed by cryptocurrencies. The warning comes as the sector experiences rapid growth and increasing links with traditional finance.
ESMA executive director Natasha Cazenave addressed the European Parliament’s Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee on 8 April. She highlighted the need for continued vigilance.
Cazenave warned that instability in even minor markets could spread through the wider financial system. She noted that most EU banks still avoid the crypto market, with over 95% having no involvement.
The latest warning follows ESMA’s earlier call to delist stablecoins that failed to comply with the Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) regulation. In January 2025, the regulator signalled its intent to enforce the new rules strictly.
As the EU strengthens oversight, a contrasting stance is emerging in the United States. Regulators under President Trump have shifted towards supporting crypto innovation.
The US SEC has taken steps to ease regulatory pressure, while the Justice Department recently disbanded its National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team.
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The US Justice Department has officially disbanded its National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team (NCET). The move signals a significant change in approach under the Trump administration.
Initially formed in 2022 during Biden’s presidency, the team was responsible for investigating crypto-related fraud and financial crimes. Its closure reflects a broader move away from aggressive regulatory enforcement.
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche was recently confirmed as the department’s second-in-command. He issued new guidelines directing prosecutors to prioritise cases involving terrorism, drug trafficking, and human trafficking.
Blanche criticised the previous administration’s policy of ‘regulation by prosecution’. He called for charges only where there is clear evidence of intentional legal violations.
The Justice Department will now avoid targeting crypto exchanges, mixers, and digital wallets based on their users’ actions or minor regulatory issues. Agencies such as the SEC have already paused several high-profile cases in response to this shift.
Trump’s support for crypto also extends to personal ties. His family reportedly holds a significant stake in token sales by World Liberty Financial. Trump has also previously launched his digital tokens.
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World Liberty Financial (WLFI) has announced plans for an airdrop of its newly launched USD1 stablecoin. The distribution will target early supporters of the project. It is designed as a test to validate its airdrop system’s functionality on Ethereum Mainnet.
Although the exact amount and timing are yet to be finalised, the initiative aims to boost the coin’s visibility. It will also ensure the smooth operation of its smart contract mechanisms.
The proposal outlines a process with community discussion, a governance vote, and a public announcement once the airdrop is finalised. However, WLFI maintains the right to modify or cancel the airdrop at any point.
The platform faces significant political backlash. Some lawmakers have raised concerns about the financial involvement of the Trump family. They are suggesting potential conflicts of interest.
Also, WLFI’s governance structure includes a non-transferable token, raising questions about transparency and decentralisation.
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With assets exceeding $800 billion, the fund is evaluating how blockchain could streamline transactions. South Korea is also considering how the technology could manage deposits and track withdrawals.
Although NPS has previously stated it would not invest directly in cryptocurrencies, it has bought shares in crypto-related companies. Investments include stakes in Coinbase and MicroStrategy.
The fund appears more focused on blockchain’s underlying infrastructure. It sees potential to reduce record tampering and improve data accuracy. However, the move aligns with growing interest in digital assets across South Korea, where over 16 million people now invest in cryptocurrencies.
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James A. Murphy, known online as ‘MetaLawMan,’ has filed a lawsuit against the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The legal action aims to uncover documents that could potentially reveal the identity of Satoshi Nakamoto, the elusive creator of Bitcoin.
The lawsuit, filed in a DC District Court, follows a 2019 statement by DHS Special Agent Rana Saoud. She suggested the agency had identified and interviewed four individuals involved in the creation of Bitcoin at a California conference.
Murphy is seeking internal DHS records, such as emails and notes from the meeting, after his FOIA requests went unanswered. He argues that the identity of Nakamoto has become increasingly important.
It is particularly true with the rise of Bitcoin ETFs and a recent executive order from President Donald Trump, which established a strategic Bitcoin reserve.
The identity of Nakamoto has remained one of the biggest mysteries in the cryptocurrency world. Despite ongoing speculation, no one has conclusively identified the person or group behind the pseudonym.
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A Nigerian court has adjourned a major tax evasion case against cryptocurrency exchange Binance to 30 April. The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) was granted additional time to respond to a legal motion filed by the company.
Binance is challenging a previous court order that allowed the FIRS to serve legal papers via email. The exchange claims Nigerian authorities lacked court approval to serve documents abroad. Binance’s counsel has called for the substituted service order to be invalidated.
The FIRS alleges Binance owes $2 billion in taxes and $79.5 billion in damages for its role in economic losses. It argues Binance’s strong presence in Nigeria makes it liable for 2022–2023 corporate taxes and related penalties.
The case forms part of Nigeria’s broader crackdown on crypto activity. Binance remains widely used by Nigerians seeking access to stablecoins and digital assets.
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