A 2022 cyberattack on OpenSea’s email service provider has returned to haunt the crypto community, and this time, the risks are even greater. A leaked database containing 7 million email addresses has now been fully disclosed, significantly increasing the danger to global crypto users. This alarming update was shared by a security researcher from SlowMist, a prominent blockchain security firm.
From phishing scams to targeted attacks, the implications of this breach are far-reaching and alarming. But how did this happen?
A closer look reveals unsettling lessons.
The Extent of the Leak
The attack, first reported in 2022, caused major disruptions across the crypto space. The leaked database includes information belonging to influential figures such as Binance founder Changpeng Zhao 
Changpeng Zhao
Changpeng Zhao, populalrly known as CZ, is a Chinese-Canadian businessman. He founded Binance, the biggest cryptocurrency exchange in the world based on trading volume. CZ came across Bitcoin (BTC) in 2013 from a friend.
Quick Facts
Full Name
Changpeng Zhao
Birth
1977 in Lianyungang, Jiangsu, China
Nationality
Chinese-Canadian, UAE
Education
BSc. from McGill University
Marital Status
Married to Yang Weiqing
Famous For
Binance, Advocate for decentralized finance, blockchain tech.
Net Worth
$59.4B (refer for realtime)
Before starting Binance in 2017, he was the Head of Development at Blockchain.info and the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at OKCoin. Under CZ, Binance launched an ICO (Initial Coin Offering) that raised $15 million and rapidly became the largest exchange within months.
To improve trading options, the firm introduced Binance Smart Chain (BSC), Binance Labs, Binance Academy, Binance Launchpad, and other blockchain-based solutions. CZ has influenced the global adoption of crypto by offering regulatory compliance, DeFi solutions, and infrastructure for digital assets.
CZ’s Career Timeline
Tokyo Stock Exchange (2001–2003) – Developed trading systems for financial institutions.
Bloomberg Tradebook (2003–2005) – Worked as a software developer for high-frequency trading systems.
Fusion Systems (2005–2013) – Co-founded this financial technology firm specializing in ultra-low-latency trading solutions.
Blockchain.info (2013–2014) – Served as Head of Development, working with early Bitcoin adopters like Roger Ver and Ben Reeves.
OKCoin (2014–2015) – Worked as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at one of the largest fiat-to-crypto exchanges at the time.
Binance (2017–2023) – Founded Binance and led it to become the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange before stepping down as CEO in 2023.
Awards and Recognizations of CZ
List of achievements
Year
Bloomberg 50 – Most Influential People in Finance
2021
Forbes Crypto Rich List – Billionaire Status
2022
Top 10 Most Influential People in Crypto (CoinDesk)
2022
Binance – World’s Largest Crypto Exchange by Volume
2018-23
There were regulatory issues in some countries about crypto. However, CZ continued to support decentralization, financial freedom, and innovation in the cryptocurrency industry. After reaching an agreement with U.S. regulators over compliance violations, in 2023, he resigned as CEO of Binance.
Useful Links To Connect With CZ
X (formerly Twiter)
https://twitter.com/cz_binance?
Instagram
CZ_Binance (@changpengzhao)
LinkedIn
Changpeng Zhao - Binance | LinkedIn
EntrepreneurInvestorChief Executive Officer
, leading firms, and Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) in the industry. Beyond traders, the breach also compromised prominent influencers and personalities who play a critical role in shaping the crypto market.
Why This Breach is a Serious Threat
This data leak has raised widespread concerns due to the risks it poses, particularly phishing scams. In these scams, cybercriminals send fraudulent emails pretending to be trusted platforms like crypto wallets, exchanges, or service providers.
Common phishing tactics include:
- Links to fake websites designed to steal login details.
- Attachments infected with malware that can steal private keys or other sensitive data.
These scams often appear convincing, making it easier for victims to fall prey and lose access to their funds or personal information.
Phishing scams have become the leading form of cyberattacks in 2024. The crypto industry has already reported losses exceeding $1 billion this year, highlighting the urgent need for stronger security measures to protect users.
Lessons from the OpenSea Incident
The OpenSea breach highlights a critical issue in the crypto ecosystem: weak links in third-party services. While OpenSea itself wasn’t directly attacked, the inadequate security of its email provider exposed millions to potential harm.
This incident emphasizes the importance of evaluating the security of all connected platforms, not just the primary service.
The OpenSea incident is a wake-up call for the entire crypto space—no platform is invincible.
