Ledger Confirms Hardware Implant in Wallet Tied to Crypto Drains

Ledger confirmed physical tampering in at least one hardware wallet linked to an investigation into crypto drains exceeding $80 million, raising concerns about compromised devices beyond Southeast Asia.

The company said it examined a device belonging to an affected user and found an unauthorized hardware implant. Ledger has contacted affected users and begun working with authorities.

Ledger has not determined how many devices contain similar implants or whether the component caused all reported wallet drains. The company also said there is no indication that its security infrastructure, systems or services were breached.

The investigation initially involved devices sold through CryptoBilis in Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines. Estimated losses have been placed above $86 million, while an analysis of 311 wallets across five blockchains put the figure near $93 million.

An X user also claimed that a Ledger purchased through MediaMarkt in Europe showed signs of possible hardware manipulation. Ledger has not confirmed that device as compromised, and the claim does not establish that the incident has spread to Europe.

Ledger’s investigation and its work with authorities will determine the scope of the tampering and whether additional devices were affected.