Alert - Kusama Network Phishing Email and Fake Medium Post

We have learned that a phishing email with the subject line: “1% DOT allocation for KSMs stakeholders” is being circulated from a fraudulent version of the Polkadot.JS domain. Do not respond to this email; it was not sent from the Web3 Foundation nor from our Kusama or Polkadot accounts.

By PolkadotFebruary 4, 2020

We have learned that a phishing email with the subject line: “1% DOT allocation for KSMs stakeholders” is being circulated from a fraudulent version of the Polkadot.JS domain. Do not respond to this email; it was not sent from the Web3 Foundation nor from our Kusama or Polkadot accounts.

This sophisticated phishing attempt also includes a fake “Kusama Network” account on Medium with a blog post titled: “DOT airdrop for Kusama stakeholders.” Do not follow the instructions in this blog; it is not an official Kusama account or communication.

This Medium post also points to a fake website (polkadot-js[.]org) - this is not a legitimate Polkadot website. Do not upload your JSON file - this will compromise your Polkadot address and private key.

We are investigating the incident and will update the community with any new details. In the meantime, we urge extreme caution. Official updates on this situation will be pinned to our Twitter accounts for @web3foundation, @kusamanetwork and @polkadotnetwork.


Please contact us at info@web3.foundation with any questions.

From the blog

Uplifting new voices and validators: Polkadot's path to sustainable decentralization

Decentralized Nodes and Decentralized Voices programs by the Web3 Foundation offer pathways for validators and governance participants to gain influence based on merit, helping to build a fairer, more resilient Polkadot ecosystem that aligns with the core principles of web3.

Is large-scale, high-quality Web3 education possible?

The Polkadot Blockchain Academy (PBA) is taking Web3 education to the next level with PBA-X, an online course crafted to deliver high-quality blockchain knowledge at scale. Learn how we’re preserving educational standards, fostering a global community, and creating new opportunities for learners everywhere.

Blockchain explained: A practical guide from concepts to use cases

Blockchain has grown far beyond its roots in cryptocurrency, reshaping industries from finance to healthcare. This guide walks you through the basics, benefits, and groundbreaking potential of blockchain and its impact on the future of the open internet.

Empowering the next wave of founders: Welcome to EasyA x Polkadot University

Unlock a structured path to start building on Polkadot with EasyA x Polkadot University.

Dynamic & Modular: Scaling Ambition with Agile Coretime

Polkadot’s Agile Coretime simplifies launching and scaling blockchain projects with dynamic blockspace allocation and flexible cost options. Learn how Agile Coretime makes it easier to build, launch, and scale ambitious Web3 projects.

How play-to-earn (P2E) is transforming onchain mobile sports gaming

Play-to-earn games are transforming mobile sports gaming. Learn how blockchain, NFTs, and platforms like Polkadot create new opportunities for digital asset ownership and cross-chain gameplay.

Polkadot Token 2049 and Decoded Asia 2024: A multichain ecosystem in action

At Token 2049 and Decoded Asia 2024 in Singapore, Polkadot teams and contributors showcased a multichain future for real-world applications. Key moments included Dr. Gavin Wood’s vision for digital individuality, Chrissy Hill’s regulatory insights, and announcements from emerging projects shaping the Web3 ecosystem.

What is a crypto wallet? Your all-access pass to the future web

In Web3, your wallet is your most valuable digital tool. It’s more than just a place to store, send, and receive cryptocurrencies securely—it’s your passport to the decentralized world.

July 2024: Key network metrics and insights

Welcome to your go-to source for the latest tech updates, key metrics, and discussions within Polkadot, brought to you by the Parity Success Team. This blog series covers a variety of topics, drawing insights from GitHub, project teams, and the Polkadot Forum.

Polkadot 2.0: The rebirth of a network

Polkadot 2.0 reimagines blockchain with a bold rebrand and powerful features: Agile Coretime, Async Backing, and Elastic Scaling. Step into a more flexible, faster, and scalable network. Learn about the improvements and changes that led to this next era of Polkadot.

Meet the Decentralized Futures grant recipients: transforming ideas into impact on Polkadot

The Decentralized Mic is here to spotlight the innovative projects and teams driving Polkadot’s growth. Join us as we explore the achievements of Decentralized Futures grant recipients and their contributions to the Polkadot ecosystem on the new ecosystem community call series.

The ultimate 2024 Polkadot grants and funding guide

Explore Polkadot ecosystem funding: grants, venture capital, bounties, and community initiatives. Discover opportunities for blockchain builders today.