protocol-v4-aave[.]limited

The domain protocol-v4-aave.limited was registered on 12 October 2025 through Atak Domain. Infrastructure analysis shows it resolves to the IPv4 address 196.251.66.67, which is geolocated to the Netherlands. The domain is hosted on nameservers ns1.plesk.axxel1.com and ns2.plesk.axxel1.com, and the web server returns the page title “Axxel Plesk”. No TLS certificate is presented, indicating the site operates without HTTPS. The site is classified as a crypto‑related brand impersonation campaign targeting Aave, as indicated by the “Impersonates: Aave” label and the “Crypto Scam” tag.

The domain appears on a single security blocklist and is actively blocked by PhishDestroy. VirusTotal analysis recorded three positive detections out of ninety‑five scanners, confirming malicious activity. Gridinsoft assigns a trust score of 0 out of 100, reinforcing the low reputation. Because the site is currently taken offline, content analysis is limited to the page title; the exact phishing landing page or credential‑stealing mechanisms have not been observed. No Safe Browsing, OTX, or additional blocklist entries are reported, leaving the broader distribution network unknown.

Defenders should add protocol‑v4‑aave.limited and its resolving IP 196.251.66.67 to deny lists across perimeter and endpoint controls. Monitoring of the associated nameservers and the Atak Domain registrar for new domains with similar naming patterns is advised. Given the absence of TLS, any attempt to serve content over HTTPS would be a clear indicator of a shift in tactics. Continuous re‑scanning with multi‑engine services is recommended to capture any future changes.