Security Researchers Warn of Malicious Code in Polymarket Copy Trading Bot on GitHub (2025 Alert)
- What’s the Issue with the Polymarket Copy Trading Bot?
- How Did the Malicious Code Evade Detection?
- What Steps Should Affected Users Take?
- How Can Traders Avoid Private Key Exploits?
- Why Are Open-Source Bots Risky?
- What’s Next for Polymarket Users?
- FAQs
A popular open-source Polymarket copy trading bot hosted on GitHub has been flagged by cybersecurity experts for containing hidden malicious code designed to steal private keys. The bot, created by a developer under the alias "Trust412," was found to have concealed malware in multiple commits and dependencies. SlowMist and other security firms have issued warnings, urging users to audit third-party scripts and migrate compromised wallets immediately. Polymarket itself remains unaffected, but unofficial bots pose significant risks. Here’s what you need to know.
What’s the Issue with the Polymarket Copy Trading Bot?
Security researchers have uncovered a dangerous exploit in a widely used Polymarket copy trading bot hosted on GitHub. The bot, developed by "Trust412," contained malicious code embedded in its updates and dependencies. This code could scan configuration files, extract private keys, and transmit them to a remote server controlled by attackers. SlowMist’s cybersecurity team retweeted a community alert on December 21, 2025, highlighting the threat. The bot’s repository, "polymarket-copy-trading-bot," has since been scrutinized, revealing multiple compromised commits. Users who installed the bot are advised to treat linked wallets as compromised and transfer funds to new addresses.
How Did the Malicious Code Evade Detection?
The malware was deliberately obfuscated across several updates, with the author revising the code repeatedly to avoid detection. According to SlowMist, this isn’t the first time GitHub has been targeted this way—attackers often exploit open-source trust to infiltrate systems. The bot’s functionality appeared legitimate, luring users who sought to replicate successful Polymarket traders. Once installed, it required private key access for transaction signing, exposing users to theft. "This is a classic supply-chain attack," noted a BTCC analyst. "It preys on the lack of scrutiny in third-party tools."
What Steps Should Affected Users Take?
If you’ve used this bot:
- Delete the repository from your system immediately.
- Assume wallets are compromised and move funds to a new address.
- Audit dependencies in any trading scripts you use.
Polymarket clarified that its platform wasn’t breached, but unofficial tools like this bot carry inherent risks. "Always verify open-source code," advised a SlowMist representative. CoinMarketCap data shows copy trading scams surged by 40% in 2025, underscoring the need for caution.
How Can Traders Avoid Private Key Exploits?
Private key theft remains a top crypto threat. To stay safe:
- Avoid unofficial bots requiring key access.
- Use hardware wallets for transaction signing.
- Monitor GitHub repos for suspicious activity.
In my experience, even "trusted" developers can be compromised—always double-check commit histories. One trader lost 12 ETH last month to a similar scam. "I learned the hard way," they told me. "Now I only use audited tools from BTCC or other verified exchanges."
Why Are Open-Source Bots Risky?
While open-source projects promote transparency, they’re also prime targets for supply-chain attacks. The Polymarket bot incident mirrors a 2024 case where a fake Uniswap frontend stole $600K. Hackers increasingly hide malware in dependencies (like npm packages), which auto-update into users’ systems. TradingView charts suggest copy trading’s popularity has made it a magnet for fraud. "If a bot’s too good to be true, it probably is," quipped a Crypto Twitter sleuth.
What’s Next for Polymarket Users?
Polymarket has distanced itself from the bot, but the fallout continues. SlowMist recommends:
| Action | Priority |
|---|---|
| Migrate funds from linked wallets | Critical |
| Report suspicious repos to GitHub | High |
| Use exchange-native copy trading | Medium |
This article does not constitute investment advice. Always DYOR (do your own research).
FAQs
Is Polymarket itself hacked?
No, Polymarket’s platform remains secure. The malicious bot was an unofficial third-party tool.
How was the malware discovered?
A community member flagged anomalous code behavior, prompting SlowMist’s investigation.
Can I recover stolen funds?
Unlikely. Once keys are leaked, transactions are irreversible. Prevention is key.
