French Crypto Platform Waltio Faces Data Breach Ransom Demands

Waltio, a French crypto tax platform, reported an extortion attempt by hackers “Shiny Hunters” claiming to have data on 50,000 customers, lodged with police, January 23.

The breach underscores ongoing cybersecurity challenges in crypto related services, highlighting risks for user data amidst increasing sophistication of hacker groups like Shiny Hunters.

Shiny Hunters’ Cyberattack Compromises 50,000 Waltio Users

According to Le Parisien, Shiny Hunters, a notorious hacker group, is allegedly behind the data compromise at Waltio. The group specializes in breaching data and extortion practices, having previously targeted many companies, including crypto-related firms. Waltio has alerted law enforcement about an “attempt to extort and compromise its automated data processing system.”

With user data allegedly breached, Waltio’s investigation with police authorities focuses on ensuring legal compliance and minimizing data compromise risks. The variant of user vulnerabilities from this breach stresses the need for heightened protective measures across crypto platforms.

“It appears there are no direct quotes available from key players, experts, or community figures related to the Waltio and Shiny Hunters incident, as the primary sources do not provide any statements or commentary from them.”

Historical Hacks and Current Market Reactions

Did you know? Shiny Hunters’ past breaches include a notable hack involving GateHub in 2019, drawing attention to similar threats in cryptocurrency security.

Ethereum (ETH), currently priced at $2,949.03, maintains a market cap of $355.93 billion, reflecting a dominance of 11.79%, as noted by CoinMarketCap on January 23. Trading volumes have decreased by 3.05%, marking a 24-hour change of 0.11%, and sharply declining 25.35% over 90 days.

CoinCu Research Team highlights the ongoing risks involving cryptocurrency exchanges and tax calculation platforms being increasingly targeted by cybercriminals, as shown by IC3 PSA 2025. A vigilant regulatory focus is recommended to safeguard against recurring breaches.