Category: Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrency is digital money that works online. It lets people send and receive payments directly without banks. It runs on secure networks called blockchains, making it fast and global.

Microsoft Alerts: New Malware Targets and Steals Crypto on Apple MacOS Devices

Microsoft warns new XCSSET malware can steal crypto and data on MacOS, urging caution against unapproved app downloads.



Microsoft just flagged an updated version of the XCSSET malware, which is now more dangerous for MacOS users. This malware, which first popped up in 2020, has always been known for stealing data from apps like Telegram and Apple Notes. But the new variant has a scary new trick—it can change Bitcoin addresses shown in browsers, leading to potential crypto theft.

Since 2022, the XCSSET malware has gotten more advanced, with improved hiding techniques, better ways to stay on infected systems, and even newer infection methods. Microsoft says that this version still targets digital wallets, collects system info, and steals data from apps like Notes, but the new features make it even harder to spot.

Even though this version of XCSSET has not yet spread widely, users are reminded to stay alert. Microsoft Defender for Endpoint for Mac can detect the malware, but you are still warned to be more cautious downloading unauthorized programs or Xcode projects. Always download your apps via the Mac App Store to ensure they are genuine and safe.

Since ransomware and malware evolve every minute, the better choice for operating MacOS would demand staying up-to-date with dangers as well as applying the methods of protection used in securing cryptocurrencies and those files.

Also Read: Nigeria Files $81.5B Lawsuit Against Binance for Economic Losses and Tax Evasion

Nigeria Files $81.5B Lawsuit Against Binance for Economic Losses and Tax Evasion

Nigeria is suing Binance for $81.5B tax evasion and economic damage, blaming it for the collapse of the naira and financial instability.



Nigeria just sued Binance for a record $81.5 billion, claiming that the exchange had caused enormous economic damage to the country. The suit demands $79.5 billion in damages and $2 billion in unpaid taxes. The devaluation of the naira was largely brought about by Binance, the Nigerian government claimed, and its foreign exchange trading damaged the local economy.

Binance has not yet registered in Nigeria, but the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) argues that the exchange has adequate presence to be taxed as a company. FIRS is requesting Binance to pay tax and penalty from three and two yeas ago for late payment. The government is asking for a 26.75% rate of interest on the unpaid tax.

In addition to tax issues, Binance is facing four counts of tax evasion, from failure to file tax returns to helping users evade taxes. The firm had previously stated it’s working with Nigerian regulators to resolve tax problems but has not responded to the new suit.

Meanwhile, Binance stopped transactions in Nigerian naira in March 2024 after the government intensified its crackdown on crypto exchanges. Binance is also facing separate money laundering charges, which it denies.

Also Read: Whale Withdraws $20.8M in SOL from Binance—Is a Price Surge Incoming?

Kraken Looks to Buy Deribit While Facing U.S. Regulatory Pressure

Summary: Kraken, a leading crypto exchange, is in talks to acquire Deribit, the leading options exchange, as much as US regulators like the FBI and SEC put increasing pressure.

Kraken is negotiating a purchase of Deribit, a largest crypto options trading venue, for a deal whose breakdown news was denied by sources insisting that talks continue. Worth anywhere between $4 billion and $5 billion, Deribit is worth trying for, with some of the potential buyers being Coinbase. Deribit CEO said they had received several proposals but had yet to make any decision.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Whale Withdraws $20.8M in SOL from Binance—Is a Price Surge Incoming?

If Kraken is successful in the transaction, it would be strengthening its presence in crypto derivatives, a fast-growing business. That is occurring at a time, however, when the exchange is under increasing pressure from U.S. regulators. Kraken received almost 7,000 data requests from authorities around the globe a year before—over half were from the U.S. The SEC, which has already sued Kraken for allegedly operating an unregistered exchange, asked for 37% of them.Other companies, including the OFAC and the CFTC, have also requested clients.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Coinbase CEO Cautions: Memecoins Could Lead to Legal Trouble

Despite issues of regulation, Kraken continues to expand. The exchange earned $1.5 billion in revenue for 2024, representing a 128% increase from last year. If Deribit acquisition occurs, it can give Kraken a solid grip in the world of cryptocurrency, shaping its destiny even while being embroiled in lawsuits.

Whale Withdraws $20.8M in SOL from Binance—Is a Price Surge Incoming?

A crypto whale moved $20.8M in SOL from Binance, sparking speculation. Traders are betting on $162.8 as strong support.


A crypto whale just made a major move, pulling 123,500 SOL (worth $20.8M) out of Binance, according to Lookonchain. Big transfers like this usually hint at accumulation, but so far, Solana’s price hasn’t popped—it’s still chilling around $172.

Solana recently dipped below its $180 support and is now under the 200 EMA, signaling a bearish trend. Right now, SOL is hovering between $160 and $180, and unless it breaks past $190, it might stay stuck. If it drops below $160, we could see another 20% crash to $120.

But not all are bearish. Data from Coinglass shows that traders have stacked $145M worth of long positions above $162.8, indicating that they are confident this level will resist. In the event that enough buyers come in, SOL could bounce back.

It’s a waiting game for now—will the whale’s shift trigger a rally, or do we have more dips ahead? Solana traders are crossing their fingers.

Also Read: Coinbase CEO Cautions: Memecoins Could Lead to Legal Trouble

Coinbase CEO Cautions: Memecoins Could Lead to Legal Trouble

Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong warns memecoin traders about legal risks, insider trading, and scams—saying chasing quick cash could land you in jail.

Brian Armstrong, CEO of Coinbase, just dropped a major reality check on the memecoin craze. He’s all for free markets, but he’s making it clear—there’s a fine line between hype and straight-up illegal moves, especially when it comes to insider trading.

Recently, memecoins linked to Donald Trump and Argentina’s President Javier Milei crashed hard, sparking controversy. Armstrong took to X (formerly Twitter) to say that while Coinbase lists what users want, people need to be smart. Just because Dogecoin blew up doesn’t mean every memecoin is a safe bet—some are straight-up scams.

He believes memecoins are just the beginning, predicting that everything—art, votes, contracts—will eventually be tokenized on-chain. But that doesn’t mean investors should blindly dive in. Coinbase, he says, will keep warning users about sketchy tokens.

His biggest warning? Insider trading in memecoins is illegal, and people caught trying to game the system will end up behind bars. Every crypto cycle, there’s a wave of people trying to get rich quick, but Armstrong’s advice is clear: Build something valuable, or risk learning the hard way.

Also Read: Apex Fusion Kicks Off PRIME Chain and AP3X Token with Big Plans for Blockchain

Apex Fusion Kicks Off PRIME Chain and AP3X Token with Big Plans for Blockchain

Summary: Apex Fusion has officially launched its blockchain platform, the PRIME Chain and AP3X token. The project, which is dedicated to marrying Bitcoin security with Ethereum programmability, is endeavoring to construct a more scalable and efficient blockchain network. AP3X token holders can now stake and get rewards as more than 130 stake pool operators lock up the network. The token will be listed on LBANK this year. Apex Fusion also plans to launch NEXUS and VECTOR, two Layer 2 solutions, and a cross-chain bridge to increase blockchain connectivity.

Apex Fusion has officially entered the blockchain sector with the launch of its PRIME Chain and AP3X token.The PRIME Chain is the underlying network of the ecosystem, taking Bitcoin’s security model and Ethereum’s smart contract features and combining them to develop a more scalable, user-centric network.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: New MacOS Malware Can Steal Crypto Wallets and Personal Data, Microsoft Warns

The project has already onboarded over 130 stake pool operators, enabling the possibility of having adequate decentralization and security.AP3X token holders can stake their tokens and receive rewards along with contributing to the stabilization of the network.

Apex Fusion also reaffirmed that AP3X will be listed on LBANK on February 20, 2025, giving early adopters a chance to acquire an estimated 10% annual yield.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Cardano’s Price Skyrockets 126% in Q4 as DeFi Booms

In the future, the team plans to roll out NEXUS, a Layer 2 smart contract platform, as well as VECTOR, with lower-cost, faster transactions. The Reactor Bridge, a cross-chain bridge that allows seamless transfer of assets across blockchain networks, is in development.

New MacOS Malware Can Steal Crypto Wallets and Personal Data, Microsoft Warns

Summary: Microsoft managed to discover a new variant of XCSSET malware that specifically targets Apple MacOS and this poses a very serious threat to the users of cryptocurrency and data privacy. Originally discovered 5 years ago, the malware has been refreshed with new tricks such as modifying Bitcoin addresses in web browsers and hijacking sensitive files.

A new wave of malware is targeting MacOS users, and this time, it’s after their crypto wallets. Microsoft has identified an updated variant of the XCSSET malware, which has been around since 2020 and is known for stealing Telegram data, recording screens, and accessing Apple Notes.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Binance Brings Back USD Deposits and Withdrawals After 18 Months

The latest version comes with even more dangerous features. According to Microsoft, hackers can now alter Bitcoin addresses displayed in browsers, tricking users into sending funds to fraudulent accounts. It also has better disguise methods, improved ways to stay hidden on infected devices, and new ways to spread.

But Microsoft continues to assert this malware isn’t yet widespread and cautions people to be vigilant. The greatest way thus far is not to download any program which might lead to malware being installed on your gadget and to download any program solely from the authentic Mac App Store.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Dave Portnoy Banks $258K on GREED Memecoin, Unveils GREED2 for Round Two

Cyber experts recognize that cyber attacks are always evolving, and one has to stay current. Enabling Mac’s built-in security features and executing a tried-and-tested antivirus software like Microsoft Defender can assist in safeguarding digital assets.

Cardano’s Price Skyrockets 126% in Q4 as DeFi Booms

Summary: Cardano (ADA) had an impressive fourth quarter in 2024, surging 126% in price and pushing its market cap to $30.3 billion. The network also saw a major boost in transaction fees, daily trading volume, and DeFi activity. As decentralized finance platforms expanded, total value locked (TVL) climbed, and Cardano moved up the rankings to become the ninth-largest cryptocurrency by market cap. The rally coincided with the U.S. election, which helped drive overall market enthusiasm.

Cardano (ADA) had one of its best quarters in recent history, with its price jumping by an astonishing 126% in the last three months of 2024. The surge brought ADA’s market cap to $30.3 billion, pushing it from the 11th to the 9th largest cryptocurrency by circulating market cap.

This price appreciation was happening during a broader trend of the larger market, and this was largely fueled by expectations around the U.S. election. Enhanced market sentiment as well as investor involvement played a huge role towards ADA’s strength.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: N1’s Big Leap: New Blockchain Gains Major Investor Support Before Mainnet

Cardano’s utilization of the network also increased sharply, according to a report by Messari. Fees per transaction increased 254% quarter-on-quarter to $1.8 million, 95% above the equivalent quarter of 2023. Though traffic was greater, the network still succeeded in keeping average fees per transaction even, dropping just 2% to 0.34 ADA per transaction.

The number of active users also grew, with daily volumes rising by 65% to 71,500 transactions and active addresses increasing by 58% to 42,900. Meanwhile, the average USD transaction fee climbed 80% to $0.23, reflecting the rise in ADA’s price.

The Cardano decentralized ecosystem has showcased a strong and very strong growth, which involves its value locked protocal increasing 13% which is a quarter over quarter to $231.6M. Liquid Finance was at the forefront, increasing by 141% to $113.6 million, with Minswap following closely in line with strong growth of 69% to $98.9 million. Smaller platforms such as Splash Protocol and Aada also revealed their presence, reflecting large quarter-over-quarter growths of 253% and 105%, respectively.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Binance Brings Back USD Deposits and Withdrawals After 18 Months

Decentralized exchanges (DEXs) on Cardano had a good time as well. Their quarterly volume increased by 271%, to $8.9 million. Minswap led the market, having over 200,000 traders and accumulating a volume of $3.1 billion. WingRiders and SundaeSwap contributed to overall DEX growth, up 40% year-on-year.

Cardano’s stablecoin sector saw notable changes, with the total market cap rising 66% over the quarter. The network’s most widely used stablecoins, iUSD and DJED, grew by 20% and 41%, respectively, while MyUSD rose 17%. However, USDM was the only stablecoin that declined, dropping by 5%.

Cardano’s rapid expansion in DeFi and increased adoption in trading activity indicate a growing confidence in the network’s capabilities. With strong performance in the last quarter of 2024, ADA has positioned itself as a major player in the crypto space, setting the stage for further advancements in the coming year.

N1’s Big Leap: New Blockchain Gains Major Investor Support Before Mainnet

Summary: N1, Founders Fund-backed high-performance Layer 1 blockchain, is ready to launch mainnet with solid investor backing from the likes of Multicoin Capital and Arthur Hayes. Designed for decentralized applications (dapps), N1 removes computing and speed limits and supports multiple programming languages, all simplifying development. With its NTS smart contract platform and N1 Studios initiative, the project seeks to drive blockchain technology forward, offering developers the tools and resources required to create the next generation of on-chain applications. N1, a new Layer 1 blockchain, is making waves ahead of its mainnet release, with large investors doubling down on their bet. Founders Fund, Multicoin Capital, and Arthur Hayes are just a few of the most notable supporters who believe in N1’s vision of revolutionizing how blockchain development occurs.

The project belongs to the same team that made 01, which they shut down in order to create something new.Their new focus is on unlimited, high-speed computing for decentralized applications (dapps) to remove the hurdles that have restrained blockchain innovation.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Trump-Linked WLFI Buys 200M Tokens Amid Growing Crypto Reserves—What’s the Endgame?

N1, unlike other platforms for smart contracts, supports more than one programming language, starting with TypeScript and followed by Python and others. This enables developers to develop dapps as seamlessly as they can create regular software without needing to grapple with difficult blockchain programming.

N1’s unique architecture separates settlement and execution layers, improving security and efficiency. Each app gets its own dedicated space, allowing it to scale without being constrained by network-wide bottlenecks.

To further boost adoption, the team launched NTS—the first-ever TypeScript-based smart contract platform—now available to select early developers. These testers are already building groundbreaking apps that weren’t possible before.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: ED Seizes ₹1,646 Crore in Crypto from Ahmedabad Man Tied to BitConnect Scam

But N1 isn’t stopping at just creating a platform—it’s actively shaping its ecosystem. Through N1 Studios, the project is funding and mentoring developers to create powerful on-chain applications. Instead of waiting for adoption to happen naturally, N1 is taking the lead in driving the next era of blockchain innovation.

Binance Brings Back USD Deposits and Withdrawals After 18 Months

Almost a year and a half afterwards, Binance.US eventually reopened USD deposits and withdrawals, a big step up for the exchange.

In a recent blog post update, Binance.US stated that customers will once more be able to deposit and withdraw USD through bank transfers (ACH). The feature will be available to all worthy customers within the next several days. To go along with this, the website is also returning fee-less ACH transactions, crypto staking, OTC trading, and a feature which enables customers to turn small cryptocurrency balances into usable cash.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Dave Portnoy Banks $258K on GREED Memecoin, Unveils GREED2 for Round Two

Interim CEO Norman Reed called the move a major milestone. “We are thrilled to restore fiat rails as we gain momentum in the new year,” he said, adding that this moment is one of the most unexpected comebacks for Binance.US since its struggles two years ago.

The exchange halted USD transactions in June last year after the SEC sued Binance and its founder, Changpeng “CZ” Zhao, accusing them of breaking securities laws and mishandling billions in customer funds. By October, Binance.US had stopped accepting USD entirely.

And then in November, the company resolved with U.S. regulators in a record-breaking $4.3 billion agreement, one of the largest in history. Under the agreement, Binance committed to adhering to regulatory requirements.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Is 2025 the Year of Altseason? Outset PR’s Founder Reveals How Crypto Projects Can Benefit

Today, with regulations evolving and maybe a shift of government policy later this year, Binance.US is restarting full fiat services, possibly a turning point for crypto in the United States.

Exit mobile version