Wallet check before a transaction: a guide
Introduction
Modern blockchain ecosystems provide attractive opportunities for decentralized finance (DeFi), but the rise of AI-driven attack automation presents serious risks. Research by Anthropic, using the SCONE-bench benchmark, demonstrated smart contract exploit losses totaling $550.1 million. These are systemic vulnerabilities that can be exploited to steal assets. In a complex regulatory environment, users face additional challenges: account freezes, loss of funds, and a lack of regulatory recourse.
One of the core methods of self-defense is implementing counterparty and wallet checks before performing a transaction. This minimizes the risk of funds entering a "gray zone" associated with sanction tags or "dirty" crypto.
Risks for Users
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Attack Automation
The use of AI increases the probability of zero-day vulnerabilities. For example, GPT-5 models tested on SCONE-bench effectively identified weak points in smart contracts and even generated full-scale exploits with minimal financial investment. -
Contact with Illegal Addresses
Transactions conducted without preliminary AML screening can lead to account blocks on licensed crypto exchanges that actively cooperate with regulators. -
Loss of Assets due to Unreliable Counterparties
The decentralized nature of blockchains such as Ethereum or BNB Chain makes it difficult to recover funds sent to untrustworthy addresses.
How to Protect Yourself
1. AML Screening of Recipients Before Transactions
Before transferring funds, always conduct an audit of the recipient's wallet. Tools like Crystal Blockchain or Chainalysis provide information on potential sanction tags or links to "dirty" crypto. This is particularly important for users of regulated platforms with mandatory KYC procedures.
What to check:
- Address history
- Links to suspicious activities
- Possible inclusion in regulatory blacklists
2. Regular Audit of Personal Wallets
Regularly check your own wallets using analytical tools. This helps identify funds received from suspicious sources and prevents their further circulation.
3. Verification of Decentralized Protocols
When interacting with DeFi, avoid unfamiliar smart contracts. Use proven applications that undergo active vulnerability audits. For example, using SCONE tools, you can verify contract code in advance and prevent risks.
Tips:
- Use trusted exchanges that comply with AML/KYC standards
- Prioritize tokens with a transparent history
- Never send funds to wallets without preliminary checks
Conclusion
AI in cybersecurity not only amplifies risks but also opens up new opportunities for user protection. Regularly perform AML screening of your transactions, verify the regulatory status of counterparties, and utilize blockchain address analysis tools. This is the only way to minimize the likelihood of account blocks, avoid dealing with "dirty" crypto, and keep your assets secure.