The Origin Ether (oETH) Airdrop is a cryptocurrency drainer scam, disguised as a legitimate airdrop associated with Origin Protocol. It exploits social engineering tactics to trick users into connecting their crypto wallets. Once a wallet is connected, the site initiates malicious smart contracts that steal funds from the user’s wallet.
Threat Summary
Category | Details |
---|---|
Threat type | Phishing / Scam / Cryptocurrency Drainer |
Associated domains | claim-originether[.]org (may use other look‑alike domains) |
Detection names | alphaMountain.ai, CyRadar, G‑Data, SOCRadar, Sophos (Phishing) |
Symptoms of interaction | – Fake airdrop page prompting wallet connection – Approval of malicious smart contract – Unauthorized transfer of crypto assets |
Damage & distribution methods | Funds stolen from connected wallets; promoted via pop-ups, compromised sites, social media spam, rogue ads |
Danger level | High — irreversible loss of crypto assets |
Removal tool | SpyHunter (for PC malware) • Download SpyHunter |
Scam Mechanics
How I got tricked
Users are typically redirected to the fake airdrop website through deceptive ads, hijacked domains, social media messages, or fake promotional links. These scams impersonate legitimate crypto airdrops to make the offer appear credible.
What it does
The fraudulent website prompts users to connect their crypto wallets and approve transactions under the pretense of receiving free tokens. These approvals actually authorize the attacker’s smart contract to transfer funds from the user’s wallet to a wallet under their control. Because blockchain transactions are final, stolen assets cannot be recovered.
Scam Message Example
The scam often uses pop-up messages or browser-based wallet prompts with messages like:
“visit https://paxos.gift to claim rewards”
These types of links are designed to exploit user trust and trigger a series of automated wallet-draining operations under the guise of an airdrop claim.
Should You Be Worried?
Yes. This scam is highly sophisticated and preys on users’ interest in free crypto rewards. The moment you approve a contract on one of these malicious sites, your wallet’s funds are at risk. The theft is automated and immediate, making recovery virtually impossible. Even tech-savvy users have fallen victim to such drainer scams due to their realistic appearance.
Dealign with Crypto Scams – Method 1: Manual Removal Guide
Follow these steps to manually remove crypto scams and protect your system.
Step 1: Identify the Crypto Scam Source
- Check if you’ve been contacted by a scammer through email, Telegram, Discord, WhatsApp, or social media.
- Identify any malicious software installed on your system, such as fake wallet apps or browser extensions.
- Scan your browser history and emails for phishing links.
Step 2: Report and Freeze Crypto Transactions (If Possible)
- Contact your crypto exchange immediately if you suspect fraud.
- Check if your transaction is pending (some blockchains allow canceling or replacing a transaction).
- Report the scam to authorities such as:
Step 3: Remove Malicious Software and Fake Wallet Apps
- Windows Users:
- Open Control Panel > Programs and Features
- Look for unknown apps related to crypto wallets or trading bots.
- Click Uninstall.
- Mac Users:
- Open Finder > Applications
- Locate suspicious apps and drag them to the Trash.
- On Mobile (Android & iOS):
- Go to Settings > Apps (Android) or General > iPhone Storage (iOS).
- Uninstall any unrecognized crypto wallet apps.
Step 4: Clear Browser Data and Remove Malicious Extensions
- Google Chrome:
- Go to chrome://extensions/
- Remove unfamiliar or suspicious extensions.
- Firefox, Edge, Safari:
- Open settings and remove unauthorized extensions.
- Clear Cache & Cookies:
- Open browser settings → Privacy → Clear browsing data
Step 5: Reset Passwords & Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
- Change passwords for your crypto exchanges, wallets, and emails.
- Use a strong, unique password for each account.
- Enable 2FA on all critical accounts (Google Authenticator or YubiKey recommended).
Step 6: Scan for Malware and Keyloggers
Even if you removed software manually, some malware can still lurk in your system. Use a security tool to perform a deep scan (see SpyHunter method below for an automatic removal process).
Step 7: Monitor Your Accounts & Funds
- Track your crypto wallet transactions using Etherscan or Blockchain Explorer.
- Keep an eye on email login alerts from suspicious locations.
- Use a hardware wallet (Ledger, Trezor) for better security.
Method 2: Automatic Removal Using SpyHunter
For a fast and reliable way to remove crypto scam-related malware, use SpyHunter.
Step 1: Download SpyHunter
Step 2: Install SpyHunter
- Run the SpyHunter setup file.
- Follow the on-screen installation steps.
- Open SpyHunter once installed.
Step 3: Perform a Full System Scan
- Click on "Start Scan Now" to analyze your system.
- Wait for the scan to detect crypto scam malware, spyware, keyloggers, and phishing trojans.
Step 4: Remove Threats Automatically
- Click "Fix Threats" after the scan completes.
- SpyHunter will eliminate malware, fake apps, and browser hijackers.
Step 5: Protect Your System from Future Crypto Scams
- Enable SpyHunter's Real-Time Protection to block phishing sites and prevent future infections.
- Regularly scan your system for new threats.
Prevention Tips: How to Avoid Crypto Scams in the Future
- Always verify website URLs before logging into exchanges or wallets.
- Avoid unsolicited investment offers on Telegram, Discord, and email.
- Never share your private keys or recovery phrases with anyone.
- Use a hardware wallet instead of online wallets.
- Regularly update your antivirus and anti-malware software.
- Be skeptical of high-return crypto investment schemes.
Conclusion
The Origin Ether (oETH) Airdrop Scam is a dangerous crypto drainer that fakes legitimacy to deceive users. By connecting to untrusted airdrop sites, users unknowingly give attackers access to their wallets. Once funds are drained, there is no way to retrieve them. Always verify the authenticity of any airdrop and avoid connecting your wallet to unfamiliar domains. If your system has been compromised, use SpyHunter to scan and remove any supporting malware.