Australian Senate Panel Backs Framework to Regulate Crypto Platforms

Scam Sniffer reported a significant increase in signature phishing attacks in January, resulting in $6.27 million in losses and 4,700 drained wallets. These attacks involve tricking users into signing off-chain messages that can lead to unauthorized token spending or NFT transfers.

Japan's PM Takaichi's landslide victory signals sweeping reforms, including slashing crypto taxes and launching crypto ETFs by 2028. The victory boosts Japan's crypto-friendly status, with the stock market responding positively.

Hyperliquid's HYPE token has defied the recent cryptocurrency market decline, with a 41.5% increase in the past two weeks attributed to fundamental utility and reduced token supply pressure. The bullish momentum follows a major institutional partnership with Ripple and a significant reduction in monthly token supply unlock.

Bitcoin's mining difficulty recently decreased by approximately 11%, the largest drop since China's crackdown in 2021, due to a decline in hashrate caused by falling prices and U.S. winter storm outages. This adjustment, from over 141.6 trillion to about 125.86 trillion, indicates a decrease in active machines securing the network.

Binance has purchased an additional $300 million worth of Bitcoin for its Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU) fund, with plans to continue acquiring more. The industry's top crypto exchange is not alone, as Strategy's executive chairman also hinted at buying the dip amid Bitcoin's major volatility.

Coinbase was the sole major crypto advertiser during this year's Super Bowl, featuring a sing-along commercial with Backstreet Boys lyrics. The ad aimed to promote economic freedom and inclusivity, sparking mixed reactions on social media.

SY Lee defended Story Protocol's decision to delay its IP token unlock to August 2026, citing the need for more time to build usage. The project is shifting towards licensing human-generated datasets for AI training, aiming for long-term commitment over short-term gains.

Tether, the company behind the popular stablecoin, has been steadily increasing its gold reserves, surpassing several countries and ranking among the top 30 global holders of the metal. With an estimated 148 tonnes of gold valued at $23 billion, Tether's buying spree may continue in the future.

The FDIC has agreed to pay legal fees and release crypto-related "pause letters" after settling a FOIA lawsuit. The regulator faced criticism for withholding records showing pressure on banks to limit crypto activities, leading to a court ruling against them.

Six people have been arrested in France after a magistrate and her mother were kidnapped for a crypto ransom. The captors demanded a ransom in cryptocurrency, threatening to mutilate the victims if not paid quickly. This incident is part of a rising trend of wrench attacks involving crypto extortion.