Bitcoin Extortionists Turn From Blackmail to Bomb Threats

Tony "The Bull" Severino

1 year ago

3 mins read

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Dozens of U.S. businesses, public buildings, and more have been evacuated in response to a string of bomb threats currently sweeping the nation.

The person or persons making the threats, are demanding a sum of Bitcoin be sent to a wallet address, or are threatening to detonate a bomb, potentially harming many in the process.

Bitcoin Bomb Threats Sweep the Nation, Police Say It’s A Hoax

Much of the United States spent the greater part of Thursday, December 13th, on edge and in fear of an attack from a Bitcoin scammer, threatening to detonate bombs at a number of locations across the country. The threats were sent via email using the subject line “we can make a deal”, requesting a sum of $20,000 USD worth of Bitcoin.

“I write to inform you that my man has carried the bomb (Tetryl) into the building where you business is located,” the threat letter reads, continuing “there will be many victims in case of its explosion.”

The letter goes on to threaten that if payment isn’t received by the end of the “working day” the bomb “will explode.” The would-be bomber claims he and the other members of his group aren’t terrorists, but the situation is being treated as such by authorities nationwide.

At the moment, the threats to appear to be a hoax, and nothing more than an attempt to extort Bitcoin from the masses. The New York Police Department put out a bulletin on Twitter, warning the public of the threat, but also revealing that “no devices have been found” during numerous searches.

“At this time, it appears that these threats are meant to cause disruption and/or obtain money,” NYPD said in a statement, calling the threats “not credible.”

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) told Reuters that they are working with local law enforcement and “encourage the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities that could represent a threat.”

The bomb threat reports are widespread, stretching from San Francisco to Boston.

Bitcoin Scammers: From Blackmail to Bomb Threats

Bitcoin and cryptocurrency scammers will try any avenue to try and steal funds. Scammers have made Twitter a hunting ground, preying on social media users regularly by impersonating celebrities and hacking accounts. They’ve also recently infiltrated Facebook as well.

Scammers are also blackmailing U.S. residents, threatening to reveal details about affairs to spouses unless a sum of Bitcoin is sent to an anonymous address – much like the current bomb threat causing great concern across the United States. The occurrence of the blackmail threat has been frequent enough for the Federal Trade Commission to issue a warning to the public.

Back in November, the scam targeted Paradise Valley, Arizona residents, prompting the local law enforcement to warn users via social media.

Featured image from Shutterstock

Tony "The Bull" Severino

Tony "The Bull" Severino, CMT, is a distinguished figure in the cryptocurrency analysis sector, renowned for his in-depth technical expertise and innovative approach to market trends. As the Head of Research at NewsBTC, Tony leads a team dedicated to providing cutting-edge insights and forecasts, helping both novice and experienced traders navigate the complexities of the crypto market.
A seasoned Chartered Market Technician, Tony's prowess in identifying and capitalizing on market patterns is unmatched. His academic and professional journey in market analysis has firmly established him as a leading authority in technical trading strategies. Tony’s approach is heavily influenced by the principles of Elliott Wave Theory, a method known for its rigorous assessment of investor psychology and price movements.

Beyond his role at NewsBTC, Tony is the visionary founder of CoinChartist.io, an educational platform aimed at demystifying the nuances of cryptocurrency trading. CoinChartist.io serves as a valuable resource for traders seeking to enhance their technical analysis skills. The platform offers a range of learning tools and resources designed to empower traders with the knowledge to make informed trading decisions.

In addition to his educational initiatives, Tony is a prolific author and a dominant voice in the crypto community. He writes the CoinChartist VIP newsletter, a weekly dispatch that has become a staple among crypto enthusiasts, revered for its insightful analysis and actionable trading advice. This newsletter has consistently ranked as a best-seller on SubStack, boasting thousands of subscribers who rely on Tony’s expertise to guide their trading strategies.

Tony is also celebrated for his literary contributions to the field. He is the author of the highest-rated Crypto Trading Journal on Amazon.com, a testament to his ability to communicate complex trading concepts in an accessible manner. This journal is widely regarded as an essential tool for traders aiming to track their progress and refine their strategies.

Before his ascent in the financial analysis world, Tony honed his skills in journalism. His background in this field has endowed him with a unique ability to present intricate market dynamics in a clear and compelling manner, making his insights highly sought after by a broad audience that ranges from casual readers to professional traders.
His professional affiliations underscore his commitment to excellence and continuous learning. As a partner of Elliott Wave International and TradingView, Tony collaborates with other leading experts to enhance his knowledge and skills. His active membership in the CMT Association further aligns him with the highest standards of industry practices and ethics.

Tony’s nickname, "The Bull," aptly reflects his aggressive and optimistic outlook on the cryptocurrency markets. His forecasts often anticipate significant upturns, earning him a reputation for bullish predictions that have frequently led to lucrative outcomes for those who follow his advice.

In summary, Tony "The Bull" Severino, CMT, is more than just a technical analyst; he is a mentor, educator, and innovator whose influence in the cryptocurrency space continues to grow. His dedication to advancing the understanding of market forces and his commitment to providing high-quality, reliable analysis make him a pivotal figure in the world of cryptocurrency trading.