ZachXBT Exposes X Accounts Faking Iran Panic for Crypto Scams

Onchain investigator ZachXBT has exposed a coordinated network of 11 accounts on X that fabricated panic over the Iran conflict to lure users into cryptocurrency scams, generating at least six-figure profits through pump-and-dump schemes.

The operation, detailed in ZachXBT's investigation published on March 23, 2026, targeted the heightened attention on Middle East tensions. The accounts, which operators acquired after they already had established follower bases, posted sensational content multiple times daily about war scenarios and geopolitical threats. This "doomposting" aimed to provoke emotional reactions and boost engagement. For instance, one post falsely claimed Iran threatened to sever undersea cables carrying 95 to 99 percent of global internet traffic, amassing 1.8 million views, 50,000 likes, and 26,000 retweets despite being flagged as incorrect by X's Community Notes feature.

To amplify reach, the accounts cross-reposted each other's material, creating an illusion of virality. Larger, legitimate profiles unknowingly contributed by replying or sharing the content, extending its visibility to millions. One prominent example was the account wanglaurentceo, which built...