At block height 901,152 on Friday, the Bitcoin network logged its 12th difficulty adjustment of the year, slipping a slight 0.45%, which lowered the difficulty to 126.41 trillion. The next day, Saturday, miners pushed the network’s computational power to yet another peak, eclipsing the previous high recorded last month. Difficulty Drops, Hashrate Soars, but Miners
Quantum computing is poised to challenge Bitcoin’s cryptographic security, raising critical questions about the future resilience of blockchain technology. As quantum processors advance, the cryptocurrency sector is actively exploring quantum-resistant
According to a new research report co-authored by Bitget, SlowMist, and Elliptic, over $4.6 billion was lost to scams in 2024 alone, a 24% increase from the previous year. Deepfake AI impersonation, social engineering scams, and modern Ponzi schemes have emerged as the top threats to users. The Most Common Frauds The report revealed that nearly 40% of high-value frauds in 2024 involved deepfake technology. Scammers are using AI to create convincing videos of public figures like X owner Elon Musk promoting fake investments on social media platforms. In one high-profile case, Hong Kong police arrested 31 members of a syndicate that used AI-generated videos of various crypto executives to steal $34 million. According to the survey, bad actors are also using AI to bypass KYC procedures, forge customer service chats, and simulate platform dashboards to fake legitimacy. Even Zoom meetings are being weaponized, with scammers sending fake invitations with links to malicious software. Social engineering remains a major threat by exploiting people’s psychological vulnerabilities. This is being done through AI-powered arbitrage bot scams that promise easy profits through ChatGPT-generated code while directing users to interact with fake interfaces that steal their funds. Other common tactics include Trojan-laced job offers, phishing links in DMs and tweets, and address poisoning. Additionally, modern Ponzi schemes continue to evolve, now appearing as legitimate decentralized finance (DeFi), NFT, and GameFi projects. The report cited the 2023 JPEX incident in Hong Kong, where the platform promoted itself as a “global cryptocurrency exchange,” using physical ads and celebrity endorsements to market its native JPC token, which supposedly had “high and stable returns.” However, the platform did not have regulatory approval, leading to authorities tagging it as “highly suspicious.” A subsequent crackdown revealed over $213 million in losses from more than 2,600 complaints by aggrieved users. Last year, blockchain investigator ZachXBT also exposed a scam network linked to several rug pulls, including Leaper Finance and Zebra Lending. Such rackets use forged KYC documents and fake audit reports to lure users before stealing funds right after the value of their phony tokens surges. According to Bitget, modern digital swindles differ from traditional Ponzi schemes by incorporating more sophisticated elements. These include advanced “social fission” tactics that use messaging apps and livestreams to drive user-based recruitment, as well as gamified interfaces and fake identities. Anti-Scam Initiative Bitget, SlowMist, and Elliptic have also announced the launch of an Anti-Scam Hub to respond to the growing threat posed to crypto by fraudsters. The initiative will be used to trace illicit funds, disrupt phishing networks, and identify deceptive behavior across blockchains. “Criminals are constantly evolving their methods of attack, using AI and finding new ways to scale their activities,” Arda Akartuna, Lead Crypto Threat Researcher at Elliptic. “This means that reciprocally, we are also working to scale our technology and blockchain capabilities to track and identify the new methods criminals are using.” A protection fund worth more than $300 million is also being deployed to mitigate user risks. The post $4.6B Lost to Crypto Scams as AI Deepfakes Lead the Charge: Report appeared first on CryptoPotato .
The APEX developer summit has undergone a noticeable transformation over the years, according to Ripple’s Chief Technology Officer, David Schwartz. Originally conceived as a technical forum for developers to exchange ideas and shape the future of the XRP Ledger (XRPL), APEX has steadily broadened its scope. In his remarks at the 2025 event, Schwartz noted that what began as a gathering for builders now includes XRP retail holders and tech enthusiasts. This year, however, marked a more significant shift, with institutions entering the conversation in a way that suggests a new phase of growth for the ecosystem. David Schwartz on the Evolution of APEX In a video shared on X by XRP proponent JackTheRippler (@RippleXrpie), Schwartz outlined how APEX has expanded beyond its developer roots. He described it as a place that was “originally envisioned as a developer get-together,” designed to share technical insights and strategic goals. Over time, it became more inclusive of the broader community, welcoming retail participants who were enthusiastic about XRP and blockchain technology. What sets this year apart, Schwartz explained, is the arrival of institutional representatives interested in building on-chain solutions tied to the real economy. Institutional interest in XRP is rising rapidly, and this new presence, in Schwartz’s view, signals something more than just broader engagement. It reflects a structural turning point for adoption. BREAKING: CTO of @Ripple – David Schwartz says: “The big change this year is that representatives of institutions who are looking to bring things like TOKENIZED REAL WORLD ASSETS onto the blockchain. That’s the next big thing that will catalyze the next wave of adoption!” #XRP pic.twitter.com/wGkrI7eQ5h — JackTheRippler © (@RippleXrpie) June 13, 2025 Real-World Asset Tokenization and Institutional Growth Schwartz pointed to tokenized real-world assets (RWAs) as a key focus of institutional activity. These assets, ranging from property and commodities to financial products, are being reimagined as blockchain-native representations, with institutions increasingly seeking out the infrastructure needed to support them. We are on twitter, follow us to connect with us :- @TimesTabloid1 — TimesTabloid (@TimesTabloid1) July 15, 2023 Schwartz predicted the rise of RWAs on the XRPL years ago. During the APEX summit, he suggested that this institutional drive could “catalyze that next wave of adoption,” highlighting the potential for enterprise-led utility to accelerate usage of the XRPL. The emphasis on tokenization reflects an industry trend where the utility of blockchain technology is growing. XRP is leading the charge and has become a mechanism for modernizing traditional markets through projects like the tokenized land deeds launched on the XRPL by the Dubai Land Department. Schwartz’s remarks indicate that Ripple is preparing for this shift by welcoming partners and participants who are capable of executing real-world use cases. As more institutions join the ecosystem, we could see rapid and significant growth in XRP’s adoption, price, and global relevance. Disclaimer : This content is meant to inform and should not be considered financial advice. The views expressed in this article may include the author’s personal opinions and do not represent Times Tabloid’s opinion. Readers are advised to conduct thorough research before making any investment decisions. Any action taken by the reader is strictly at their own risk. Times Tabloid is not responsible for any financial losses. Follow us on X , Facebook , Telegram , and Google News The post Ripple CTO States What to Catalyze Next Wave of XRP Adoption appeared first on Times Tabloid .
Dogecoin surges 20% amid renewed market optimism, while Sui eyes a breakout near $4.20, highlighting growing momentum in crypto markets. Meanwhile, Cold Wallet ($CWT) is gaining attention with its innovative
Mike Novogratz anticipates a substantial Bitcoin price rise via institutional adoption. Institutional backing accelerates Bitcoin as a recognized macro asset alongside gold. Continue Reading: Bitcoin Prices Could Skyrocket with Institutional Embrace, Declares CEO The post Bitcoin Prices Could Skyrocket with Institutional Embrace, Declares CEO appeared first on COINTURK NEWS .
Matthew Sigel, a digital asset expert at VanEck, has recently voiced concerns about a rising trend among small-cap companies. These firms are announcing plans to invest hundreds of millions of dollars in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC), Solana (SOL), and XRP. However, many have weak financial positions and extremely low market values. According to Sigel, these announcements are not genuine business strategies but appear to be efforts to boost stock prices through misleading information. VanEck Exec Spotlight Crypto Treasury Anomaly Several companies with market capitalizations under $100 million have made bold claims about buying large amounts of digital currencies. Some of these companies have promised to invest between $300 million and $800 million in crypto, even though their total value is much lower. These claims have sparked doubts among analysts and investors. Sigel highlighted Trident Digital Tech as an example. Recently, the company, valued at just $16 million, announced plans to raise $500 million to acquire XRP . The gap between its value and stated goal has caused many to question whether the announcement is possible. Sigel Likened Crypto Treasuries Plans To a Pump and Dump Scheme The VanEck Executive points out several warning signs. Most companies making these bold claims have no known track record in the crypto industry. They usually lack the funding needed to carry out such large investments. In many cases, these announcements come when the crypto market is rising. Segel suggests they are timed to take advantage of investor excitement. He warned that these patterns match the behavior seen in pump-and-dump schemes. President Trump was accused of this tactic in January. In this scheme, insiders push up stock prices with exaggerated news and then sell their shares for a profit. This leaves regular investors with overvalued stock and heavy losses. A Broader Industry Trend The problem is not limited to one or two companies. Addentax Group, a Chinese clothing company worth only a few million dollars, said it plans to buy $800 million worth of Bitcoin and TRUMP tokens. Likewise, DeFi Development Corp announced it would sell $5 billion in shares to purchase Solana . After the announcement, its market cap jumped from $7 million to $379 million, demonstrating how such statements can instantly influence investor behavior. Other companies, including Classover Holdings and Webus International, have made similar promises. Each claimed it would raise hundreds of millions to buy digital assets despite their total value of less than $100 million. Industry analysts are warning investors not to take such announcements at face value. Investors are advised to examine the company’s financial reports and ability to raise funds before making any investment decisions. The post VanEck Exec Calls Out Small-Cap Firms Over Crypto Investment Claims appeared first on TheCoinrise.com .
This week’s crypto markets experienced significant volatility triggered by geopolitical tensions between Israel and Iran, alongside robust institutional buying and regulatory advancements. Institutional investors continued to expand their crypto portfolios,
Bitcoin holds strong above $100K as accumulation continues.
Crypto markets are once again testing patience, and a few clear winners are beginning to emerge. Ethereum (ETH) showed signs of rising, only to fall back quickly, catching many buyers off guard. Hyperliquid (HYPE), a new player in derivatives, gained 12% as interest grew in its approach to decentralized futures trading. Amid all the movement, BlockDAG (BDAG) is getting the most attention. It has raised $299.6 million so far, sold 22.4 billion coins, and is now priced at $0.0276 in Batch 29. Backed by real progress, BlockDAG is proving it’s more than just a trending name. It’s moving forward with strong results, useful products, and a clear strategy that makes it a top performing crypto ahead of Ethereum and HYPE when it comes to long-term strength. Ethereum’s Bull Trap Shakes Market Confidence Ethereum recently appeared ready for a breakout, rising past a key point near $2,700. But according to BitcoinSensus, this jump was short-lived and became a bull trap. Many new buyers entered long positions before the price dropped again, slipping back below important support. This reversal slowed Ethereum’s momentum and raised questions about price manipulation by major players. Right now, Ethereum may keep trading in a wide range unless it holds firmly above $3,000. Ethereum remains a leader in DeFi and Layer-2 solutions, but the recent price action has left some watchers unsure. Its strong background is still there, yet the constant swings continue to shake confidence among those hoping for stable growth in the short term. HYPE Climbs 12% on Real Platform Activity Hyperliquid (HYPE) is catching more eyes after its recent 12% rise. This growth follows new excitement about its role in trading perpetual futures on-chain, directly challenging big platforms like Binance and Bybit. Unlike coins that rise only on rumors, HYPE’s increase is tied to real activity. More users are joining the platform and using its smooth, easy-to-use setup for making leveraged trades. For many, HYPE represents the next stage in DeFi tools, faster, more open, and built around real use. Still, as a mid-tier name, HYPE faces tough competition. It has shown promise, but long-term growth depends on proving its strength in a busy market. BlockDAG Surges Past $299.6M With Real Growth, Users, and Results BlockDAG is gaining traction as one of the strongest crypto projects of 2025. It has raised $299.6 million and sold 22.4 billion coins. The project is now in Batch 29, where each coin is priced at $0.0276. Early participants from Batch 1 have already seen returns of 2,660%. One reason for this strong rise is BlockDAG’s focus on product over promises. The X1 mining app is already live and being used by over 1.5 million users. This app works on smartphones and allows people to mine BDAG coins without needing expensive or technical gear. This simple setup has helped bring in users at an early stage, something not often seen during presales. BlockDAG also uses a clear and planned structure for its presale. With 45 total pricing rounds, the system is easy to follow. Each stage shows consistent growth in both price and community activity. This approach gives people a better understanding of where the project is headed and adds to overall trust. With large-scale adoption already in motion, strong fundraising, and 1.5 million users actively mining, BlockDAG is clearly more than just an early-stage idea. Its working product, growing numbers, and steady planning have positioned it as a top performing crypto. While many projects are still trying to build their first tools, BlockDAG is already running and reaching new heights every day. Final Thoughts In a space filled with noise, swings, and wild guesses, the projects that show steady progress are beginning to shine. Ethereum’s false breakout showed how quickly hope can fade. HYPE’s 12% rise shows there is room for new names, but questions still remain about long-term value. BlockDAG, on the other hand, is rising on real data. It has raised almost $300 million, onboarded over 1.5 million users, and built a live product people are already using. With the current price at $0.0276 in Batch 29, momentum is building. This project offers a strong mix of working results, steady growth, and a clear plan. That makes it one of the top performing crypto projects today. Presale: https://purchase.blockdag.network Website: https://blockdag.network Telegram: https://t.me/blockDAGnetworkOfficial Discord: https://discord.gg/Q7BxghMVyu The post BlockDAG Becomes the Front-Runner, Nearing $300M Presale With 1.5M User Growth as Ethereum Slides & HYPE Gains appeared first on TheCoinrise.com .