XRP Security Alert: How Scammers Exploit Trust in Major Exchanges

In a stark reminder of the persistent security challenges within the cryptocurrency ecosystem, renowned blockchain investigator ZachXBT has recently exposed a sophisticated $2 million impersonation scheme targeting Coinbase users. The investigation reveals a Canada-based fraudster, operating under the aliases "Haby" or "Havard," who spent an entire year posing as a legitimate Coinbase support agent. This elaborate social engineering operation drained victims' funds by exploiting trust in one of the world's largest and most recognizable crypto exchanges. Notably, on-chain data analysis shows that a significant portion of the stolen assets included 21,000 XRP, valued at approximately $44,000 at the time of the theft. This case underscores a critical vulnerability not just for individual investors but for the broader perception of security surrounding major digital assets like XRP. As the crypto market continues its maturation and integration into mainstream finance, such incidents highlight the urgent need for enhanced user education, robust verification protocols from exchanges, and the indispensable role of blockchain forensic experts like ZachXBT. While the underlying technology of cryptocurrencies like XRP offers transparency and immutability, the human element—social engineering—remains a potent attack vector. This event serves as a cautionary tale for all market participants, emphasizing that security vigilance is paramount, especially as institutional adoption grows and digital assets aim for broader financial utility. The bullish long-term thesis for assets such as XRP remains intact, focusing on utility and adoption, but this incident reinforces that ecosystem security is a foundational pillar for sustainable growth.

ZachXBT Exposes Canadian Scammer Behind $2M Coinbase Impersonation Scheme

Blockchain investigator ZachXBT has unmasked a Canada-based fraudster accused of stealing over $2 million in cryptocurrency through fake Coinbase support channels. The scammer, operating under aliases "Haby" or "Havard," allegedly spent a year posing as a Coinbase help desk agent, using social engineering tactics to drain victims' funds.

On-chain data reveals the stolen assets—including 21,000 XRP ($44,000 at the time)—were funneled into luxury expenditures like rare social media handles, nightlife indulgences, and gambling platforms. ZachXBT's investigation pieced together Telegram screenshots, wallet transactions, and boastful social media posts to trace the operation.

The case highlights escalating security concerns for exchange users as impersonation scams grow increasingly sophisticated. Coinbase, one of crypto's most trusted brands, becomes the latest exchange exploited for social engineering attacks.

Ripple's XRP Faces Market Indecision as Investors Pivot to Sub-$0.05 Altcoin

Ripple's XRP enters the fourth week of December under mounting pressure, struggling to sustain momentum above the $1.90 resistance level. The token's failure to breach $1.95 has triggered strategic reassessments among investors, with technical indicators painting a mixed picture of its near-term prospects.

Market participants are increasingly rotating into Mutuum Finance (MUTM), a sub-$0.05 DeFi alternative, as XRP's price action shows signs of exhaustion. The shift reflects growing appetite for higher-growth opportunities beyond established but sluggish large-cap assets.

Analysts note weakening buying pressure for XRP as it trades below critical moving averages, though some contend the sell-off may be losing steam. This divergence of opinion has fractured the XRP community, with many now scouting the altcoin market for emerging opportunities.

XRP Faces Make-or-Break Test in January 2026 Amid Regulatory and Technical Crosscurrents

XRP stands at a critical juncture as January 2026 approaches, with converging regulatory developments, technical patterns, and a scheduled escrow release poised to dictate its trajectory. Analysts project a wide price range between $1.77 and $3.40, while bullish outliers like Standard Chartered's Geoffrey Kendrick envision $8 if key catalysts materialize.

The token currently hovers NEAR $1.87, testing a crucial support trendline that has contained losses through December. Market participants await clarity on whether XRP can break its downward pattern or succumb to supply pressures.

Regulatory tailwinds may emerge from the impending CLARITY Act, which could redefine financial institutions' engagement with digital assets. While such developments promise long-term adoption, near-term volatility risks persist—particularly around supply events that demand merchant vigilance.

How XRP’s Utility Will Drive Price Appreciation In The New Year

Crypto analyst SMQKE has outlined a compelling case for XRP's price growth, hinged on its utility within Ripple's payment ecosystem. The debate, ignited by commentator Lewis Jackson's skepticism, centers on whether XRP's payment functionality inherently translates to value appreciation.

SMQKE's analysis emphasizes XRP's integration into global payment infrastructure as a catalyst for adoption. Ripple's system enhances transaction speed, reduces costs, and improves settlement efficiency—factors driving financial institutions toward the XRP Ledger. As adoption grows, XRP will see increased use in payment flows, creating sustained demand through institutional settlement activity.

A key mechanism highlighted is the deflationary burn: each Ripple transaction destroys 0.00001 XRP, gradually reducing circulating supply. This scarcity model, coupled with rising transactional demand, forms the foundation for SMQKE's bullish outlook.

Standard Chartered Predicts 330% Surge for XRP Amid ETF Speculation

Standard Chartered has issued a bullish forecast for Ripple's XRP, projecting a potential 330% price surge to $8 by 2026. Geoffrey Kendrick, the bank's lead analyst, cites regulatory clarity and anticipated spot XRP ETF approvals as key catalysts. The prediction comes despite muted short-term price action, with Bitwise CIO Matt Hougan noting that ETF inflows often exhibit delayed market impact.

XRP's valuation hinges on two converging factors: resolution of Ripple's ongoing SEC litigation and institutional adoption via ETF products. Kendrick's $8 target implies a market cap exceeding $400 billion—a figure that would position XRP among the top three cryptocurrencies by valuation. Market observers note such projections assume unprecedented capital inflows into crypto ETFs.