Clipboard Hijacking

Definition ∞ Clipboard hijacking is a malicious technique where malware alters copied data before pasting. In cryptocurrency transactions, this typically involves replacing a legitimate wallet address with an attacker’s address. The user remains unaware of the substitution, inadvertently sending funds to the wrong recipient. This attack exploits a common user workflow, leading to irreversible financial loss.
Context ∞ Clipboard hijacking remains a significant threat to digital asset users, frequently reported in security advisories. The primary discussion revolves around user education on verifying addresses and the adoption of security software that detects such manipulations. Upcoming security measures may involve cryptographic verification of copied addresses or operating system-level protections against clipboard modifications.