Dusting attack
In short
In a dusting attack, someone sends tiny amounts of crypto ("dust") to many wallets. The goal is to track how those amounts move and link addresses, to deanonymize owners or set them up for targeted scams.
Dust alone steals nothing, but it is often the reconnaissance step before phishing or address poisoning. Defense: do not spend or mix unknown tiny amounts with other funds, and stay suspicious if tailored messages follow.
Is unexpected "dust" in my wallet dangerous?
Not directly, but a warning sign. Best to leave the amount untouched and not click any linked offers or messages.
Related terms
Information, not investment advice. More of this? The newsletter.