MediaMarktSaturn Pulls Ledger Wallets Across European Stores

MediaMarktSaturn removed all Ledger hardware wallets from its European stores and online platform Tuesday after buyers reported unauthorized mobile components inside devices, widening concerns about tampered crypto hardware reaching consumers.

The retailer operates more than 2,000 stores across Germany, France, Italy, Austria and Spain. Its withdrawal covers Ledger’s product range, including the Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X and Flex models.

Johannes, an X user, said Monday that he bought Ledger wallets at two separate MediaMarkt locations in Germany and found unauthorized cables and mobile communication modules inside both devices. He also called for an immediate product recall.

Ledger confirmed Monday that a supply-chain compromise involving Southeast Asian distributor CryptoBilis allowed implanted communication modules to transmit users’ recovery phrases over mobile networks. The company said it was investigating additional thefts.

The European removal follows reports that a Ledger Flex purchased at Singapore’s airport also contained a suspected implant. MediaMarktSaturn said it is maintaining contact with Ledger while the products remain off sale.