Experts from anti-virus software vendor ESET have named a new popular way to steal cryptocurrencies from cryptocurrency wallets, as well as illegal mining, Kommersant reported.

The new illegal technology is based on non-exchangeable tokens (NFTs).

Aleksandr Pirozhkov, head of one of ESET's areas of expertise, described the new method used by cybercriminals. According to him, in 2021 fraudsters began to spread malware to illegally mine cryptocurrencies and steal funds from cryptocurrency wallets through unique NFT tokens and mobile applications.

The process is often as follows: During a computer game, a gamer is offered an NFT token with a unique superpower or weapon for the character. A virus is embedded in such a token, which then gains access to the player's cryptocurrency.

Previously, the main ways to steal money from victims' cryptocurrencies were through torrent downloads and erotic content sites.