TON Ecosystem: User Safety Tips to Avoid Scams

The Open Network (TON), a blockchain platform integrated with Telegram, has seen record-breaking growth in 2024. On-chain-activated wallets skyrocketed from around 1 million in January to over 9 million by June. However, this surge in users has attracted scammers. In June 2024, blockchain security firm SlowMist issued a warning about increasing phishing attacks in the TON ecosystem. With the TON Foundation aiming to reach 500 million users by 2028, the challenge lies in protecting users from all potential attack vectors without slowing down adoption.

Key Takeaways

• TON saw a massive increase in wallets, from 1 million in January to over 9 million in June 2024, attracting scammers.

• Telegram is not responsible for the safety of TON-linked Mini Apps, which have been rapidly increasing but may lack security measures.

• TON Foundation supports security actions by Mini Apps, emphasizing strong encryption and user verification to prevent scams.

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Telegram is Not Responsible for Mini Apps’ Safety

While exploring risks in The Open Network (TON) ecosystem, it’s crucial to note that Telegram is not responsible for the safety of TON-linked Mini Apps. The number of Mini Apps on Telegram, like Notcoin and Hamster Kombat, has been rising sharply. However, many of these apps do not follow the best security practices, potentially putting user funds at risk, according to Stepan Chekhovskoi, lead smart contract auditor at cybersecurity firm Hacken.

Security Measures Encouraged by TON Foundation

The security measures implemented by some Mini Apps on Telegram are supported by the TON Foundation. The security actions taken by many projects to protect their users have been found impressive. For example, users of Tonkeeper, a popular TON-based wallet, are allowed to mark if a received non-fungible token (NFT) is legitimate.

Read more: The Growth of TON Wallets: Exploring the Open Network Ecosystem

Self-Custodial vs Custodial Mini Apps on Telegram

According to Chekhovskoi, Telegram Mini Apps need the same web and crypto security measures as apps on other platforms. Telegram’s Mini Apps manage user private keys in two ways: custodial and self-custodial, similar to crypto wallets. Most Mini Apps are custodial, requiring additional security measures like passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA). For self-custodial apps, users must ensure strong encryption for private key storage, such as requiring an eight-character password with numbers and symbols or a fingerprint.

Non-Technical Threats in the TON Ecosystem

According to Hacken, the decentralized nature and ease of use of the TON ecosystem attract scammers, and there’s no single solution to protect users. To avoid non-technical scams on TON, users should be cautious with non-official apps and those from lesser-known developers. Steve Milton, co-founder and CEO of the crypto wallet Fintopio, advises checking for verification marks on Mini Apps to avoid phishing attacks. Telegram verifies bots, official channels, and public groups to help users identify legitimate sources.

Read more: Unveiling the Ecosystem of The Open Network (TON)

Conclusion

The Open Network (TON) has experienced rapid growth in 2024, with wallet numbers soaring from 1 million to over 9 million. This growth, however, has attracted scammers, prompting a warning from SlowMist about increased phishing attacks. While Telegram is not responsible for the security of TON-linked Mini Apps, the TON Foundation supports measures to enhance user safety. Effective security practices, such as strong encryption and user verification, are essential for protecting users as the TON Foundation aims to reach 500 million users by 2028.

FAQ

What is The Open Network (TON)?

The Open Network (TON) is a blockchain platform designed to integrate with Telegram, enabling decentralized applications and services.

How does TON differ from other blockchain platforms?

TON is uniquely integrated with Telegram, offering seamless access to blockchain services for Telegram users, and focuses on user-friendly decentralized applications.

How can users protect themselves from scams on TON?

Users should verify Mini Apps, use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication (2FA), and be cautious with non-official apps to avoid phishing and scams.