A troubling report from journalist Vincent Scott has drawn attention to the continuing risks faced by digital asset holders, following an incident in which a user reportedly lost 25,000 XRP from their Ledger device.
The revelation has reignited awareness around the importance of security hygiene, emphasizing that even hardware wallets—often regarded as the safest storage option—can be vulnerable if users fail to adhere to strict operational security practices.
According to Scott, the individual’s XRP was drained from their Ledger wallet under circumstances that remain unclear. He issued a public advisory urging users to change passcodes periodically, be on alert for potential malware threats, and avoid engaging with suspicious emails or links that could compromise security.
His comments reflect a growing concern that artificial intelligence‑driven malware and phishing schemes are becoming increasingly sophisticated, exploiting even minor lapses in user vigilance.
One of our people just got drained 25k XRP from Ledger
Yal.
Change your passcodes randomlyYou never know what malware is installed in your cpu with some AI just waiting for you
Just ONE scam email or text or whatever can fuck you over
Then boom gone.
— VincentScott (@VincentSco72192) October 8, 2025
Security Practices and Preventive Measures
When asked by an X user, Armando Reynoso, about what prevents such incidents on the Xaman wallet, Scott provided a structured explanation outlining best practices for digital asset safety. He noted that keeping private keys off mobile devices serves as a crucial first step toward preventing unauthorized access.
Scott explained that Xaman offers an additional layer of protection through the security systems embedded in iOS and Android, but stressed that technology alone is insufficient without consistent user discipline.
He went further to explain that maintaining good digital hygiene, such as avoiding interaction with unknown files or links, and changing passcodes regularly and unpredictably, remains essential.
Scott emphasized that users should not view these precautions as optional but as fundamental. He also noted that when a wallet provider operates as a registered company, there could be grounds for liability if a hack results from negligence.
However, he reaffirmed that the XRP Ledger itself remains secure and compliant, underscoring that vulnerabilities typically arise from user‑side errors or inadequate storage practices rather than from flaws within the blockchain’s infrastructure.
User Responsibility and the “Defense in Depth” Approach
Scott described his security philosophy as a “defense in depth” approach, which combines multiple layers of protection to reduce risk. This method includes secure key management, trusted wallet infrastructure, and consistent adherence to security practices.
He was clear, however, that no amount of layered security absolves users of personal responsibility. According to him, the combination of user diligence and technological safeguards provides the most reliable defense against loss.
Another X user, known as CryptoMenace, added that the root of the issue likely stemmed from a compromised 24‑word recovery phrase. He criticized the mishandling of seed phrases, pointing out that these phrases effectively represent the entire wallet.
In his view, a user who fails to store their seed phrase securely exposes themselves to inevitable loss, regardless of password changes or hardware security features.
Maintaining Trust and Security in the XRP Ecosystem
The incident serves as a reminder to XRP holders and the broader crypto community that the integrity of one’s assets depends on more than technology—it depends on vigilance. While Ledger and similar devices remain among the most secure options for self‑custody, they cannot compensate for careless behavior or weak operational security.
As digital assets continue to gain mainstream adoption, the importance of maintaining rigorous self‑custody practices becomes more critical. Scott’s response underscores that security is not a static process but a continuous discipline.