Are Crypto Conferences Getting More Dangerous? Digital assets, already known to be riskier transactions, face a growing challenge: security risks during crypto events.
Recent incidents, such as the robbery of Rooch Network co-founder Haichao Zhu in Bangkok, highlight the escalating threats to conference attendees. As the community prepares for large-scale gatherings, including Ethereum Devcon, the need for increased security becomes increasingly evident.
Bangkok knifepoint robbery
In the dark hours leading up to Ethereum Devcon, Haichao Zhu arrived in Bangkok late at night after an overnight flight. Alone and exhausted from the journey, fate dealt him a harsh hand when two knife-wielding bandits confronted him and made off with his phone.
The close encounter was a stark wake-up call that underscored the dangers facing conference attendees in foreign urban labyrinths.
“Generally speaking, Bangkok remains a safe and fun place, but like any other place, you have to be careful of the dark.” – Haichao Zhu
Haichao Zhu, co-founder of Rooch Network, was robbed at knifepoint in Bangkok just before the Ethereum Devcon conference. The incident raised safety concerns, with organizers urging participants to exercise greater caution.#Devcon2024 #BlockchainSecurity #CryptoEvents #Ethereum… pic.twitter.com/7Rp4cFLSqN
– TraderXLeon (@corleonefncx) November 5, 2024
A Pattern of Crime at Crypto Conferences
Unfortunately, Zhu’s experience is not isolated. Similar incidents have been reported at other major crypto events. Several attendees faced violent confrontations at the Ethereum Community Conference in Brussels earlier this year..
Kilt Protocol’s Rishant Kumar defended himself against an attacker, while another participant injured his knee during a robbery. These alarming trends raise questions about safety protocols at such gatherings.
The increase in security incidents at crypto conferences is linked to a broader crime pattern involving digital currencies.
A report from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has shed light on the underbelly of Southeast Asia, where digital currencies have become the new playground for scammers.
In 2023 alone, losses from scams are estimated to be between $18 billion and $37 billion, with organized crime syndicates profiting from the chaos.
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Preparing for Devcon 7 and other crypto events
Thailand is one of the safest countries in Southeast Asia for travelers, but anything can happen if you don’t keep a cool head.
As Bangkok prepares for the invasion of thousands at Devcon 7, the focus will be on the safety of all crypto bros while in town. From November 12 to 15, the city will host a digital gala featuring Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin and more.
The holy trinity of travel is money, phone and passport. Protect the three above all else. Having these three can replace everything else.
Oh, and of course, leave your Bitcoin hard wallet at home. This goes without saying.
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