ASKED TO GET A BANANA, A BAYC OWNER NARROWLY AVOIDS A FAKE FORBES SCAM

Last updated: June 19, 2025, 19:49 | Written by: Ari Paul

Asked To Get A Banana, A Bayc Owner Narrowly Avoids A Fake Forbes Scam
Asked To Get A Banana, A Bayc Owner Narrowly Avoids A Fake Forbes Scam

Imagine receiving an email from a seemingly legitimate Forbes journalist, eager to interview you about your prized Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) NFT. Asked to get a banana, a BAYC owner narrowly avoids a fake Forbes scam Pseudonymous NFT trader Crumz avoided a scam that could have stolen NFTs from his stash.Excitement builds, you envision your ape gracing the digital pages of a reputable publication, further solidifying its value and prestige. A Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) owner says he has managed to avoid a potentially dreadful day after being asked to retrieve a banana from someone they initially believed was interviewing themBut what if this golden opportunity was nothing more than a meticulously crafted trap, designed to separate you from your valuable digital assets? A Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) owner says he has managed to avoid a potentially dreadful day after being asked to retrieve a banana for a photo from someone they initially believed was interviewing them for Forbes.This nightmare scenario almost became a reality for NFT collector Crumz, who recently shared his chilling encounter with a scammer posing as a Forbes reporter. A Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) owner says he has managed to avoid a potentially dreadful day after being asked to retrieve a banana for a photo from someone they initially believed was interviewing them for Forbes. On Nov. 27, NFT collector Crumz detailed his run-in with a scammer posing as a Forbes journalist. He [ ]The bizarre request for a banana as a prop during the photoshoot ultimately became the red flag that saved his digital skin. A Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) owner says he has managed to avoid a potentially dreadful day after being asked to retrieve a banana for a photo from someone they initially believed was interviewing them for Forbes.On Nov. 27, NFT collector Crumz detailed his run-in with a scammer posing as a Forbes journalist. He reportedThis incident throws light on the increasingly sophisticated tactics used by scammers targeting the lucrative NFT space and serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of vigilance and skepticism in the wild west of digital collectibles. A Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) owner says he has managed to avoid a potentially dreadful day after being asked to retrieve a banana for a photo from someone they initially believed was interviewing them for Forbes.On Nov. 27, NFT collector Crumz dGet ready to delve into the details of this near miss, learn how to spot similar scams, and protect your precious NFTs from falling into the wrong hands.

The Banana That Saved a Bored Ape: Crumz's Close Call

On November 27th, pseudonymous NFT enthusiast Crumz recounted his unsettling experience on social media, providing a detailed account of how he almost fell victim to a cleverly disguised scam. On Nov. 27, NFT collector Crumz detailed his run-in with a scammer posing as a Forbes journalist. Continue Reading on Cointelegraph Asked to get a banana, a BAYC owner narrowly avoids a fakeIt all began with an email that appeared to be from a Forbes journalist expressing interest in interviewing him about his BAYC NFT. A Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) owner says he has managed to avoid a potentially dreadful day after being asked to retrieve a banana for a photo from someone they initially believed was interviewing them for Forbes.On Nov. 27, nonfungible token (NFT) collector Crumz detailed his run-in with a scaThe prospect seemed genuine, and Crumz, understandably excited, readily agreed.

However, the seemingly professional interaction took a strange turn when the ""journalist"" requested Crumz to retrieve a banana for a photo prop. Scammers posing as Forbes journalists have been targeting BAYC holders to set up interviews and distract them while they attempt to steal tThis peculiar request raised immediate suspicion.Why would a Forbes journalist need a banana for a professional interview and photoshoot? A Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) owner says he has managed to avoid a potentially dreadful day after being asked to retrieve a banana for a photo from someone they initially believed was interviewing them for Forbes.On Nov. 27, nonfungible token (NFT) collector Crumz detailed his run-in with a scammer posingIt was this out-of-the-ordinary detail that triggered Crumz's instincts and prompted him to investigate further. A Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) owner says he has managed to avoid a potentially dreadful day after being asked to retrieve a banana for a photo from someone they initially believed was Asked to get a banana, a BAYC owner narrowly avoids a fake Forbes scamHad Crumz followed the scammer's instructions, it's highly likely that the perpetrators would have attempted to gain access to his digital wallet and drain his NFTs.

Crumz's story highlights the importance of trusting your gut and meticulously scrutinizing every detail, especially when dealing with unsolicited requests in the cryptocurrency and NFT space.The incident serves as a stark reminder that scammers are constantly evolving their methods and are willing to go to great lengths to deceive their targets.

How the Fake Forbes Scam Works: Targeting BAYC Holders

This ""fake Forbes scam"" isn't an isolated incident.It's part of a larger trend where scammers are specifically targeting owners of high-value NFTs, particularly those belonging to the Bored Ape Yacht Club.The BAYC collection, renowned for its exclusivity and high prices, has become a prime target for these malicious actors.The scarcity and cultural cachet of these NFTs make them incredibly attractive to thieves looking for a quick and substantial payday.

The scammers' modus operandi typically involves:

  1. Impersonation: They pose as journalists from reputable publications like Forbes, Bloomberg, or The New York Times, lending an air of legitimacy to their approach.
  2. Building Rapport: They initiate contact through email or social media, expressing interest in interviewing the NFT holder.They often research their target beforehand, personalizing their messages to make them more convincing.
  3. The Odd Request: This is where the red flags start to appear.They might ask for seemingly innocuous information, access to the NFT holder's computer for technical reasons, or, as in Crumz's case, request a bizarre prop for a photoshoot.
  4. The Heist: The ultimate goal is to gain access to the NFT holder's digital wallet, either through phishing links, social engineering tactics, or by installing malware on their device. Scammers posing as Forbes journalists have been targeting BAYC holders to set up interviews and distract them while they attempt to steal their apes. A Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) owner says he has managed to avoid a potentially dreadful day after being asked to retrieve a banana for a photo from someone they initially believed was interviewing them for Forbes. On Nov. 27, nonfungibleOnce they have access, they can transfer the valuable NFTs to their own wallets.

This scam highlights the vulnerability of NFT holders and the lengths that cybercriminals will go to in pursuit of valuable digital assets.The combination of social engineering and technical manipulation makes this a particularly dangerous threat.

Red Flags to Watch Out For: Spotting the Scam

Protecting yourself from NFT scams requires vigilance and a healthy dose of skepticism. A Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) owner says he has managed to avoid a potentially dreadful day after being asked Asked to get a banana, a BAYC owner narrowly avoids a fake Forbes scam - Mount Rushmore CryptoHere are some key red flags that should raise your suspicion:

  • Unsolicited Contact: Be wary of unsolicited emails or messages from individuals claiming to be journalists or representatives of reputable organizations.Always verify their identity independently.
  • Unusual Requests: Question any requests that seem out of place or don't align with standard journalistic practices. A Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) owner says he has managed to avoid a potentially dreadful day after being asked Asked to get a banana, a BAYC owner narrowly avoids a fake Forbes scam - Bitcoin Market News TodayAsking for a banana for a photoshoot is a clear example of an abnormal request.
  • Urgency and Pressure: Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency to pressure you into making hasty decisions. A Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) owner says he has managed to avoid a potentially dreadful day after being asked Asked to get a banana, a BAYC owner narrowly avoids a fake Forbes scamThey might claim that the opportunity is time-sensitive or that you need to act quickly to avoid missing out.
  • Poor Grammar and Spelling: While not always a guaranteed indicator, poor grammar and spelling mistakes can be a sign of a scam. A Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) owner says he has managed to avoid a potentially dreadful day after being asked to retrieve a banana from someone they initially believed was interviewing them for Forbes.Legitimate publications typically have strict editorial standards.
  • Suspicious Links: Never click on links from unknown or untrusted sources. [ad_1] A Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) owner says he has managed to avoid a potentially dreadful day after being asked to retrieve a banana for a photo from someone they initially believed was interviewing them for Forbes. On Nov. 27, NFT collector Crumz detailed his run-in with a scammer posing as a Forbes journalist. [ ]These links could lead to phishing websites designed to steal your login credentials or install malware on your device.
  • Requests for Private Keys or Seed Phrases: Under no circumstances should you ever share your private keys or seed phrases with anyone.These are the keys to your digital kingdom, and giving them away is like handing over the keys to your bank vault.

Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry.If something feels off, trust your instincts and investigate further before proceeding.

Protecting Your NFTs: Practical Tips and Best Practices

Securing your NFTs is paramount in the digital age. A Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) owner says he has managed to avoid a potentially dreadful day after being asked to retrieve a banana for a photo from someHere are some actionable steps you can take to minimize your risk and safeguard your valuable assets:

Secure Your Digital Wallet

Your digital wallet is the primary target for scammers. Scammers posing as Forbes journalists have been targeting BAYC holders to set up interviews and distract them while they attempt to steal their apes. Asked to get a banana, a BAYC owner narrowly avoids a fake Forbes scam - Emporio NFTImplementing robust security measures is essential:

  • Use a Hardware Wallet: Hardware wallets are physical devices that store your private keys offline, making them significantly more secure than software wallets.
  • Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): 2FA adds an extra layer of security to your wallet by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your mobile device.
  • Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts. Asked to get a banana, a BAYC owner narrowly avoids a fake Forbes scamOpt for strong, complex passwords that are difficult to guess.
  • Regularly Back Up Your Wallet: Back up your wallet's seed phrase and store it in a safe, offline location.This will allow you to recover your wallet in case of loss or damage.

Be Mindful of Phishing Attacks

Phishing attacks are a common tactic used by scammers to steal your login credentials:

  • Verify Website URLs: Always double-check the website URL before entering any sensitive information.Look for subtle variations or misspellings that could indicate a phishing site.
  • Be Suspicious of Emails and Messages: Be wary of unsolicited emails or messages asking you to click on links or provide personal information.
  • Install Anti-Phishing Software: Consider installing anti-phishing software on your computer and mobile devices.

Educate Yourself and Stay Informed

Knowledge is your best defense against scams:

  • Stay Up-to-Date on the Latest Scam Tactics: Scammers are constantly evolving their methods, so it's important to stay informed about the latest trends and techniques.
  • Follow Security Experts and News Sources: Follow security experts and reputable news sources in the cryptocurrency and NFT space.
  • Share Your Knowledge: Help protect others by sharing your knowledge and experiences with friends, family, and the wider community.

Use a Burner Wallet for Interactions

Consider using a burner wallet for interacting with new platforms or projects. A Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) owner says he has managed to avoid a potentially dreadful day after being asked to retrieve a banana for a photo from someone they initially believed was interviewing them for Forbes. On Nov. 27, NFT collector Crumz detailed his run-in with a scammer posing as a Forbes journalist.This wallet contains a smaller amount of funds and can act as a buffer in case of a compromised website or smart contract.

Verifying Identities: Due Diligence is Key

Before engaging in any interview or partnership, thoroughly vet the individuals involved.Take the following steps:

  • Cross-reference Information: Verify the ""journalist's"" identity by checking their profile on the official Forbes website or LinkedIn. Asked to get a banana, a BAYC owner narrowly avoids a fake Forbes scam Crypto Bitcoin Cryptocurrency Cryptonews Cryptoexchange BTC Airdrop Blockchain ETH ICO Binance Mining News MarketLook for consistent information across multiple platforms.
  • Contact the Publication Directly: Reach out to Forbes directly to confirm the journalist's employment and the legitimacy of the interview request.
  • Search for Online Presence: Conduct a thorough online search for the individual's name and affiliated organization.Look for any red flags or inconsistencies.
  • Reverse Image Search: Perform a reverse image search on their profile picture to ensure it hasn't been stolen from someone else.

By taking these extra steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to an impersonation scam.

The Broader Implications: NFT Security and Trust

The Crumz incident underscores the broader challenges surrounding security and trust in the rapidly evolving NFT ecosystem.As the value of NFTs continues to rise, so does the incentive for malicious actors to exploit vulnerabilities and deceive unsuspecting collectors.

The incident highlights the need for:

  • Enhanced Security Protocols: NFT marketplaces and platforms need to implement more robust security protocols to protect users from scams and fraud.
  • Increased User Awareness: Greater effort needs to be made to educate users about the risks associated with NFTs and how to protect themselves.
  • Community Vigilance: The NFT community needs to work together to identify and report scams and malicious actors.

Ultimately, building a secure and trustworthy NFT ecosystem requires a collaborative effort from platforms, users, and the broader community.

What to do if you are targeted by a Fake Forbes Scam

If you suspect you've been targeted by a fake Forbes scam (or any similar NFT scam), take immediate action:

  1. Cease all communication: Stop responding to the scammer immediately.
  2. Document everything: Save all emails, messages, and any other relevant information as evidence.
  3. Report the incident: Report the scam to the following authorities:
    • The Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
    • Your local law enforcement agency
    • The platform where you were contacted (e.g., Twitter, Discord, email provider)
  4. Secure your accounts: Change your passwords for all your online accounts, especially your email and crypto wallets. A Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) owner says he has managed to avoid a potentially dreadful day after being asked to retrieve a banana for a photo from someoneEnable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible.
  5. Review your wallet activity: Check your crypto wallet for any unauthorized transactions.If you notice anything suspicious, contact your wallet provider immediately.
  6. Warn others: Share your experience with the NFT community to raise awareness and prevent others from falling victim.

Taking swift action can help mitigate the damage and prevent further losses.

The Future of NFT Security: Where Do We Go From Here?

The NFT space is still in its early stages of development, and security is an ongoing challenge.However, there are several promising developments on the horizon that could help improve the security and trustworthiness of the ecosystem:

  • Smart Contract Audits: Rigorous audits of smart contracts can help identify and prevent vulnerabilities that could be exploited by scammers.
  • Decentralized Identity Solutions: Decentralized identity (DID) solutions can provide a more secure and transparent way to verify the identity of users and organizations.
  • Enhanced Wallet Security: Ongoing development of hardware wallets and multi-signature wallets can provide stronger protection against unauthorized access.
  • AI-Powered Scam Detection: Artificial intelligence (AI) can be used to detect and prevent scams in real-time by analyzing patterns and behaviors.

By embracing these advancements, the NFT community can build a more secure and trustworthy environment for everyone.

Conclusion: Stay Vigilant and Protect Your Assets

The story of Crumz narrowly avoiding a fake Forbes scam serves as a powerful reminder of the risks inherent in the NFT world. Asked to get a banana, a BAYC owner narrowly avoids a fake Forbes scamScammers posing as Forbes journalists have been targeting BAYC holders to set up intervThe seemingly innocuous request for a banana ultimately unmasked a sophisticated scheme designed to steal valuable digital assets. BTCUSD Bitcoin Asked to get a banana, a BAYC owner narrowly avoids a fake Forbes scam. Scammers posing as Forbes journalists have been targeting BAYC holders to set up interviews and distract themBy staying vigilant, understanding the tactics used by scammers, and implementing robust security measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to these malicious actors. Asked to get a banana, a BAYC owner narrowly avoids a fake Forbes scam . Buy, Sell, Trade Bitcoin with Credit Card 100 Cryptocurrencies @ BEST rates from multiple sources, Wallet-to-Wallet, Non-Custodial!Remember to always verify identities, question unusual requests, and protect your private keys at all costs.The NFT space offers incredible opportunities, but it's crucial to navigate it with caution and prioritize the security of your digital assets.Let Crumz's experience be a lesson: even a request as bizarre as fetching a banana can be a warning sign of a scam.Protect your apes, stay informed, and stay safe in the ever-evolving world of NFTs.The next time someone asks you to grab a banana for a Forbes interview, think twice!

Ari Paul can be reached at [email protected].

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