Ledger investigates potential wallet tampering after reports of $86 million in crypto stolen
Hardware wallet manufacturer Ledger has confirmed it is investigating reports of potential device tampering following claims that approximately $86 million in cryptocurrency was stolen from users. The company disclosed the probe after multiple affected customers reported unauthorized transactions draining their wallets, with the incidents appearing to span several weeks before gaining wider attention.
Ledger, one of the most widely used hardware wallet brands globally, has long marketed its devices as a secure offline solution for storing digital assets. Hardware wallets are designed to keep private keys isolated from internet-connected environments, making them a preferred choice for users seeking protection against remote hacking attempts. However, concerns around supply chain integrity — where devices may be compromised before reaching end consumers — have periodically surfaced within the crypto security community.
The reported theft raises significant questions about the reliability of physical security products in the broader digital asset ecosystem. If tampering within the supply chain is confirmed, it could undermine confidence in hardware-based cold storage solutions at a time when the industry is working to strengthen consumer trust following a series of high-profile exchange failures and software exploits.
Investigators and independent security researchers are expected to analyze affected devices in the coming days. Ledger has urged customers to purchase hardware wallets exclusively through official channels and to verify device integrity upon receipt. Further updates from the company are anticipated as the investigation progresses.
Source: CoinDesk