Bitpay is notifying users of a Trojan virus affecting some Microsoft Windows users which can irreversibly redirect Bitcoin payments.
The virus does not reside within the payment application or digital wallet. Rather, it exploits the clipboard feature within Windows. Many users copy the bitcoin address of the intended payee into the Windows clipboard before pasting it into a payment application. The trojan.conbitclip virus transforms the copied address into a similar looking address belonging to the scammer, who then receives the hijacked funds.
While Bitcoin payments are becoming more common, it’s a painful reminder that not all payments are created equal. Unlike many mainstream payment methods, Bitcoin payments cannot be disputed or reversed.
Caveat emptor!