Today in crypto, blockchain security firm SlowMist has warned of five emerging crypto attack methods in Q2. Meanwhile, the SEC is weighing a new token listing standard that could ease regulatory hurdles for crypto exchange-traded funds, and Deutsche Bank is planning to launch a crypto custody service in 2026.
SlowMist warns of 5 ‘insidious’ crypto scams emerging from Q2
Crypto users faced a rise in “psychologically manipulative” attacks in the second quarter as hackers dreamt up advanced and creative ways to try and steal crypto, according to blockchain security firm SlowMist.
SlowMist’s head of operations, Lisa, said in the firm’s Q2 MistTrack Stolen Fund Analysis report that while it didn’t see an advancement in hacking techniques, the scams have become more sophisticated, with a rise in fake browser extensions, tampered hardware wallets and social engineering attacks.
“Looking back on Q2, one trend stands out: attackers’ methods may not be getting technically more advanced, but they are becoming more psychologically manipulative.”
“We’re seeing a clear shift from purely on-chain attacks to off-chain entry points — browser extensions, social media accounts, authentication flows, and user behavior are all becoming common attack surfaces,” said Lisa.
US regulator considers simplified path to market for crypto ETFs
The United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is reportedly exploring a simplified listing structure for crypto exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that would automate a significant portion of the approval process.
Under the proposed overhaul, ETF issuers could potentially sidestep 19b-4 application filings, the form entities submit to the SEC before listing a financial product on exchanges, according to crypto journalist Eleanor Terrett.
Instead, issuers would submit SEC form S-1, the initial listing registration filing, and wait for 75 days. If the SEC does not object to the application, the issuer would be free to list the ETF, reducing the back-and-forth communication between fund managers and the regulator.
Terrett says that details of the proposal, including the eligibility criteria for cryptocurrencies qualifying for the expedited process, are yet to be confirmed by the issuers and the regulatory body.
Crypto ETF approvals are a hot-button topic, as US-listed altcoin ETFs could attract fresh capital into altcoin markets, potentially triggering a sustained altcoin rally, or altseason.
Deutsche Bank to launch crypto custody accounts in 2026: Report
Germany’s biggest bank, Deutsche Bank, is reportedly planning to allow its clients to store cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC) next year.
Deutsche Bank plans to launch a digital assets custody service in 2026 in collaboration with the technology unit of Austria-based Bitpanda crypto exchange, Bloomberg reported on Tuesday.
The crypto custody service’s development will also involve Deutsche Bank-backed Swiss technology provider Taurus, according to Bloomberg, citing sources familiar with the matter.
If confirmed, Deutsche Bank’s latest plans would mark the bank’s latest attempt to enter the crypto storage market, since it revealed such ambitions in 2020.
Deutsche Bank has signaled increasing interest in cryptocurrency in recent years
In early June, Deutsche Bank’s head of digital assets, Sabih Behzad, said the bank was considering entering the stablecoin market, including issuing its own stablecoin or joining stablecoin projects.
“We can certainly see the momentum of stablecoins along with a regulatory supportive environment, especially in the US,” Behzad said, adding:
“Banks have a wide variety of options available to engage in the stablecoin industry — everything from acting as a reserve manager, through to issuing their own stablecoin, either alone or in a consortium.”
Additionally, Deutsche Bank is also reportedly assessing whether to develop its own tokenized deposit solution for use in payments.