Trust Wallet’s Chrome extension became unavailable after a technical issue delayed an update adding reimbursement tools for hack victims.
Trust Wallet’s browser extension for the Google Chrome Web Store is temporarily unavailable following a release issue. The disruption delayed an update that is intended to assist victims of a recent security breach. Consequently, the official extension cannot be downloaded by users currently using Chrome.
Trust Wallet Update Delay Follows Chrome Store Technical Issue
Trust Wallet CEO Eowyn Chen confirmed that the extension was removed because of a bug on the Chrome Web Store. She said this issue happened when they were releasing a new version. Importantly, the update featured a check for reimbursement claim submissions.
According to Chen, Google has recognized the issue and brought it to the forefront within the company. That is why Trust Wallet is expecting the extension to return after resolution. Meanwhile, users were urged to be patient and cautious.
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The reason for the delay was to aid the victims of the Christmas Day hack. Specifically, it enabled affected users to send the verification codes from the extension itself. This process helps to confirm wallet ownership and ensures that victims are separated from victims.
Chen revealed that 2,596 wallet addresses were affected in the incident. Of that group, Trust Wallet received approximately 5000 reimbursement claims. This discrepancy indicated a lot of duplicate or false submissions.
The Trust Wallet hack took place on Christmas and emptied more than $7 million in user funds. Trust Wallet is committed to reimbursing verified victims after doing internal investigations. The incident brought back worries about browser-based crypto wallet security.
Browser extensions are not immune to vulnerabilities because they are used in an internet-connected environment. For this reason, they are frequently attacked by phishing or malicious updates. Industry data illustrates the fact that extension-based wallets are exposed to greater risks than cold storage solutions.
Trust Wallet said existing installations may continue functioning. However, users should check their version number right away. Version 2.69 is the intended secure release and version 2.68 was recently flagged as vulnerable.
Security Risks Highlight Growing Wallet Extension Challenges
The incident highlights the risks to crypto wallet browser extensions in general. Hot wallets that are connected to browsers continue to be a common target for attack.
Trust Wallets response was aimed at damage containment and reimbursing users. However, the amount of false claims complicated the verification process. As a result, tougher identity checks were required.
The delayed update brought in verification codes directly and only linked to the use of extensions. The purpose of this mechanism is to minimize fraud in the reimbursement process. Similar methods are being used on more and more major crypto platforms.
Until restoration, Trust Wallet recommended that new users use mobile applications. The Trust Wallet app is still available on the iOS and Android platforms. Mobile wallets generally have fewer features for browser-based attacks.
Users were also warned not to search the Chrome Web Store for alternatives. Fake extensions are commonly used to impersonate brands to steal funds or private keys. Trust Wallet advised its users to wait for official confirmation before installing anything.
Chen again reiterated that updates would only be delivered via verified Trust Wallet accounts. She specifically noted the official X account and support website of the platform. Any other sources must be regarded with suspicion.
Overall, the episode speaks volumes about ongoing security tradeoffs in crypto self-custody tools. While browser extensions provide a convenient service, they also present specific threats. As adoption increases, there is likely to be more robust safeguards that are the norm across the industry.
Source: https://www.livebitcoinnews.com/trust-wallet-chrome-extension-removed-temporarily-after-update-bug/
