DCI Regains X and Facebook Accounts From Crypto Scammers
Kenya’s Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has regained control of its X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook accounts after they were compromised by hackers promoting a fake cryptocurrency. The agency confirmed the cyberattack on February 9, stating that it has launched a thorough investigation into the incident.
The hackers reportedly used the compromised accounts to announce the launch of a cryptocurrency token called “DCI.” They marketed it as a blockchain project aimed at helping Kenya save hundreds of millions of dollars annually.
To add legitimacy, they shared the token’s “contract address” and falsely claimed it was listed on several major crypto exchanges. The attackers also attempted to boost engagement by offering free tokens in exchange for likes and urging followers to pressure local media into supporting the so-called project.
“This is an official news, please ask local media to support the idea of launching a blockchain project,” one of the fraudulent posts read.
As of February 10, at 1300 hours EST, the misleading posts had been deleted, and DCI had regained full control of its accounts.
This incident places Kenya’s DCI among a growing list of high-profile entities targeted by cybercriminals promoting fake cryptocurrencies. Recently, Tanzanian billionaire Mohammed Dewji’s X account was hacked, resulting in over $1.4 million in losses. Similarly, in Brazil, hackers seized the X account of former president Jair Bolsonaro and scammed users out of $1.3 million.
