Google Gemini Linked to $69K Crypto Scam Involving Tronify.rent

A crypto scam known as Tronify.rent allegedly stole $69,651 from approximately 80 victims in September, according to an investigation by JP, founder of IOC Investigations. The report claims that Google Gemini recommended the website to at least one user, who later reported that the AI service described Tronify.rent as safe. However, independent threat researchers had flagged the site for phishing and brand impersonation risks months earlier.

The scam involved a TRON-focused website that promised to reduce transaction costs for users moving assets on the network. Victims reportedly lost funds after connecting their wallets to the site. One Reddit user claimed to have lost 2,590 USDT after connecting a Trust Wallet to Tronify.rent. JP's investigation listed 12 TRON addresses linked to the operation but did not provide a detailed breakdown of the losses.

Security warnings about Tronify.rent predate the latest victim report. PhishDestroy flagged the domain in February and later assigned it a critical threat rating of 90/100. Despite abuse reports filed in April, the domain remained publicly accessible. The website claimed to be a noncustodial service operated by 'Tronify Energy Solutions LLC,' but no independent audit confirmed these claims.

The most unusual aspect of the report concerns Google Gemini. JP stated that a victim reported asking Gemini whether Tronify.rent was safe and received a response that appeared to endorse the website. Google has not confirmed this interaction but warns users that generative AI can produce inaccurate information and advises verifying responses independently.