Ledger Live, the companion application to the famous Ledger hardware wallets, finds itself in turmoil after worrying revelations from a security expert. Its practices in terms of data collection and updates raise serious questions about respect for user privacy in the crypto world.
The scrupulous tracing of the slightest actions and gestures
According to the findings of this ethical hacker, Ledger Live would zealously track the slightest actions of its crypto users, with no possibility for them to evade. Each time a Ledger wallet is connected, the application performs in-depth checks, compiling precise data on your usage habits, crypto-assets and preferred applications. So much confidential information which would undoubtedly feed juicy marketing databases or even more sensitive files.
Updates with obscure and suspicious content
But the most disturbing thing is yet to come. Indeed, the security specialist seriously questions the real necessity of the famous Ledger firmware updates. According to him, the brand could benefit from these critical updates, the content of which remains opaque, to discreetly access wallet secrets hardware, including the precious private keys allowing you to spend your cryptos. He therefore calls on users to be extremely vigilant when installing these updates, until Ledger demonstrates more transparency.
Negotiable crypto data privacy?
This revelation comes at the worst time for Ledger, already hit this year by a massive theft of customer data. It is a cruel reminder that in the still poorly regulated Wild West of cryptocurrencies, distrust must remain the order of the day. Even the most established brands can be tempted to give in to the lure of profit and advertising tracking or to monetize user data.
So, should we still massively abandon Ledger and its competitors in favor of lesser-known but open source wallets? Not necessarily. But increased vigilance and pressure from friends in the crypto world will perhaps force the company to review its copy in terms of transparency and data confidentiality. Because in the decentralized and libertarian world of crypto, respect for user privacy should never be negotiable. Whistleblowers and ethical hackers are keeping an eye on things.
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