How Polymarket Bot Malware Is Hiding on GitHub and Stealing Wallet Keys

A critical security alert has emerged for Polymarket users after a copy-trading bot hosted on GitHub was found to contain hidden malware.

The malicious code is designed to steal wallet private keys by accessing local .env files, allowing attackers to drain users’ funds instantly.

Security researchers warn that unaudited third-party software in the crypto ecosystem carries significant risks.

While trading bots can offer convenience and automation, this incident illustrates how sophisticated attackers can hide malicious functionality under seemingly legitimate tools.

Crypto users are urged to verify the source of software, avoid exposing private keys, and adopt secure platforms for trading and investing.

If you are interested in crypto trading, explore Bitrue and enhance your experience. Bitrue is dedicated to providing safe, convenient, and diversified services to meet all crypto needs, including trading, investing, purchasing, staking, borrowing, and more.

Key Takeaways

1. A Polymarket copy-trading bot on GitHub contains malware that steals wallet private keys.

2. The code targets the local .env file, transmitting credentials to an attacker’s server.

3. The incident highlights the importance of avoiding unaudited third-party crypto software.

Malicious Code in the Polymarket Bot

Security researchers, including SlowMist’s CISO 23pds, disclosed that the Polymarket copy-trading bot on GitHub contains intentionally hidden malicious code.

The bot’s function, disguised as validate_mcp, automatically executes on startup. Its real purpose is to read a user’s .env file and transmit private keys to a server controlled by the attacker.

How the Malware Operates

• Reads the .env file on the user’s local system

• Extracts the private key stored for wallet access

• Sends the key to a remote server for unauthorized access

• Allows complete theft of user funds

The malicious code was found in specific lines of src/index.ts and in the package.json file, packaged under excluder-mcp-package@1.0.4. Git commit history shows repeated revisions to conceal its true purpose, demonstrating deliberate efforts to hide the malware.

Read Also: How to Make Your First Profitable Trade on Polymarket: A Complete Guide

Risks of Using Third-Party Crypto Bots

The Polymarket bot incident emphasizes the dangers of unaudited third-party tools in the decentralized finance ecosystem.

While copy-trading bots can simplify trading, they can also serve as trojan horses for malicious actors. Users trusting such software with private keys expose themselves to irreversible loss.

Security Lessons

• Always audit or use verified third-party software

• Never store private keys in files accessible by external programs

• Be cautious of packages with obscure or generic function names

Incidents like this erode trust in automated tools around crypto platforms and stress the importance of secure trading habits. Crypto users must prioritize safety over convenience to avoid falling victim to hidden malware.

Read Also: What is Polymarket? Crypto and Blockchain Based Prediction Markets

How to Protect Your Crypto Assets

Crypto traders can take proactive steps to reduce risk while using trading tools.

Practical Measures

• Use hardware wallets or secure key management systems

• Only download trading software from official repositories

• Monitor Git commit histories and reviews for suspicious changes

• Avoid giving third-party applications access to private keys

• Keep software and systems updated to mitigate known vulnerabilities

By following these practices, users can safely explore automation features like copy-trading while minimizing exposure to malicious code. Awareness and caution are key defenses in the decentralized finance landscape.

Read Also: How to Set Up a Trading Bot on Bitrue: A Complete Guide for 2025

Conclusion

The discovery of malware in a Polymarket copy-trading bot on GitHub is a stark reminder that convenience in crypto trading comes with serious risks.

The malicious code targeting .env files highlights how attackers can exploit unaudited software to steal private keys and drain funds.

Users must be vigilant, verify all third-party applications, and adopt secure practices to safeguard their assets.

Platforms like Bitrue provide a safer alternative for trading digital assets, combining deep liquidity, robust security, and ease of use.

By relying on trusted platforms and avoiding risky third-party bots, traders can focus on growing their crypto portfolios without jeopardizing their funds.

FAQ

What did the Polymarket bot malware do?

It stole users’ wallet private keys by reading local .env files and sending them to an attacker-controlled server.

How was the malicious code hidden?

The malware was disguised as a function called validate_mcp and repeatedly revised to avoid detection in GitHub commits.

Which users are at risk?

Anyone using unaudited Polymarket copy-trading bots with private keys stored locally is at risk.

How can crypto users protect themselves?

Use verified software, store private keys securely, avoid exposing keys to third-party programs, and monitor repositories for suspicious activity.

Is there a safer alternative to third-party bots?

Yes, regulated platforms like Bitrue offer secure trading with robust protections, eliminating the need for potentially unsafe bots.

Disclaimer: The views expressed belong exclusively to the author and do not reflect the views of this platform. This platform and its affiliates disclaim any responsibility for the accuracy or suitability of the information provided. It is for informational purposes only and not intended as financial or investment advice.