Projects tied to Pepe meme creator Matt Furie and the NFT studio ChainSaw lost roughly $1 million to contract takeover exploits last week, according to on-chain investigator ZachXBT.

On June 27, ZachXBT reported transaction records showing that the attacker seized control of the “Replicandy” contract at 4:25 a.m. UTC on June 18 by transferring ownership to the externally owned address 0x9Fca. 

Two hours later, the new owner withdrew mint proceeds and, at 5:11 a.m. the next day, reopened the mint, issued fresh NFTs, and dumped them into open bids, pushing the floor price to zero.

On June 23, the same address took over three additional ChainSaw contracts: Peplicator, Hedz, and Zogz. The bad actor then repeated the mint-and-dump cycle. 

ZachXBT estimated the combined theft at more than $310,000 and linked the funds to three collector addresses: 0xf6a9, 0x7e58, and 0x58f4. He traced a 2.05 ETH payment from 0x9Fca to an exchange deposit that converted to 5,007.91 USDT and was then moved to MEXC. 

He subsequently mapped many smaller monthly deposits from unrelated projects into the same exchange wallet.

Two GitHub accounts, “devmad119” and “sujitb2114,” list wallets that intersect the stolen fund trail. 

Both accounts share indicators that ZachXBT associated with North Korean IT workers, including Korean language system settings, Astral VPN sessions, and Asia-Russia time zones, despite résumés that claim US residency.

Favrr exploit follows the same payroll path

A second incident surfaced on June 25, when the freelance services token project Favrr lost more than $680,000 following its listing on a DEX. On-chain analysis linked the exploit to the consolidation wallet 0x477, which received recurring payments from Favrr payroll addresses 0x1708 and 0x6412. 

Gate.io deposit address 0xab7 received part of the stolen Favrr tokens, and was previously funded by the suspected developer behind “sujitb2114”.

Favrr announced that it would refund all initial decentralized offering participants, cancel its MEXC listing, and initiate a thorough audit of its codebase. The project added that it will publish a new launch timeline “in the coming weeks” and advised users to avoid trading impostor tokens in the interim.

ZachXBT reported that Favrr’s chief technology officer, listed as Alex Hong, deleted his LinkedIn profile after the exploit. Attempts to verify his work history with previous employers were unsuccessful.

The investigator plans to release aggregate data on payroll flows to wallets tied to the same North Korean cluster, contending that basic due diligence checks would have flagged the hires.

The stolen funds from the ChainSaw collections remain idle, while most Favrr proceeds have already passed through Gate.io and several nested services. 

ZachXBT said he has not reached the teams because their direct message channels are closed, and official Telegram or Discord rooms do not provide contact options.

The incidents bring renewed attention to the risks of “shadow hiring” in crypto projects that outsource development through gig-work platforms. 

Investigators continue to follow the on-chain trails, and affected communities await formal statements from Furie, ChainSaw, and Favrr.

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NFTs have quickly grown from a niche concept to a major force in the art world, enabling creators to connect with collectors in new ways. While the market has seen its ups and downs, there’s still plenty of room for innovative generative NFT collections. By blending unexpected traits with artistic flair, these projects offer something unique—no coding background needed. Dive into this guide to see how you can bring your own collection to life.

What You Will Learn

Here’s what to expect from this generative NFT tutorial:

• How to pick the right no-code generative art platform.

• How to prepare your artwork by creating layers (like background, characters, and accessories).

• How to launch your NFT collection quickly on popular marketplaces such as OpenSea or Rarible.

We’ll focus on tools that remove the need for programming. That means you can focus on making art people love rather than fussing over code.

Why Go No-Code?

If you’re an artist or creative individual, dealing with code can be a big hurdle that diverts your attention from your true passion. By using no-code platforms, you can skip complex programming tasks and mint your NFTs much faster.

This approach also spares you the challenging learning curve of writing custom smart contracts. In essence, you can concentrate on perfecting your art while the platform takes care of all the behind-the-scenes technical work.

Understanding Generative NFT Art

What is Generative Art?

Generative art involves mixing and matching design elements in different ways to create a unique outcome for each piece. Think of it like a digital slot machine that randomly picks traits—such as color, background, or accessories—and assembles them into fresh combinations. When these artworks are turned into NFTs, each token reflects a one-of-a-kind blend of those traits.

NFT layering is a term you’ll often hear. It refers to how you stack different assets (like eyes, hats, or clothing) on top of each other to form a final image. By assigning different rarity levels to each trait, you can create valuable, limited-edition pieces within your collection.

The Value of Generative NFT Collections

Collectors are attracted to scarcity and variety. A large project might have thousands of pieces, but each one is distinct, thanks to random trait generation. Projects like Bored Ape Yacht Club and CryptoPunks demonstrated how highly people value limited sets of unique designs. These early successes paved the way for other artists who want to jump in and give fans something fresh to collect.

Common Misconceptions

• “I need to be a developer to create generative NFTs.” Not anymore! No-code platforms make it accessible for anyone with a creative streak.

• “It’s too expensive to get started.” While you do need to consider minting fees, there are many cost-effective tools and even blockchains with lower transaction fees.

• “Generative projects are too complicated.” Yes, they can be, but if you break them down into clear steps—it’s easier than you might expect.

Overview of No-Code Options

Today, the landscape of generative NFT art tools is growing rapidly. Several platforms have emerged to meet the demands of creators who would rather not tinker with code. Many websites and apps now feature user-friendly dashboards, drag-and-drop interfaces, and clear step-by-step instructions, making the creation of generative NFT art accessible to anyone.

Top Platforms to Explore

1. NFT Art Generator

   • Key Features: Creates collections on Ethereum or Solana, and supports images, GIFs, and videos.

   • Why It’s Great: Focus on the creative aspects without worrying about any complicated code.

   • Ideal For: Artists who have different types of media and want quick blockchain integration.

2. Appy Pie NFT Generator

   • Key Features: Pre-built templates, easy-to-use interface for people with no coding background.

   • Why It’s Great: Makes the design process smooth, offering a visual approach to building your NFT layers.

   • Ideal For: Beginners who need a straightforward tool to transform digital art into NFTs.

3. Fotor-NFT Creator

   • Key Features: AI-powered tool that converts art into NFTs fast.

   • Why It’s Great: Offers various art styles, effects, and can speed up the creation process.

   • Ideal For: Creatives who want quick results and an array of visual enhancement options.

4. SketchAR

   • Key Features: Combines augmented reality (AR) and AI to help you create and sell unique digital artworks.

   • Why It’s Great: The AR component adds a fun twist, and again, no coding required.

   • Ideal For: Artists looking for an immersive way to generate their NFT art.

5. Hotpot

   • Key Features: AI-powered software with tools to help spark fresh ideas.

   • Why It’s Great: You can generate custom NFT art directly on the site without leaving your web browser.

   • Ideal For: Creators who want AI-driven assistance in brainstorming or finalizing designs.

Source NFT Art Generator

Step-by-Step Generative NFT Art Tutorial

Prepare Your Artwork Assets

Before diving in, prepare the pieces of your artwork. Think about each visual layer:

• Background: Solid colors, gradients, or simple patterns.

• Character or Main Subject: This could be your “base” figure if you’re doing characters.

• Accessories & Details: Hats, eyes, mouths, and so forth.

Pro Tip: Name your files clearly (e.g., “Eyes_Green.png,” “Hat_Red.png”). Keep them in tidy folders so you know exactly what goes where.

Set Up Your Project on the Chosen No-Code Platform

1. Registration & Setup: Create an account on your chosen platform.

2. Project Dashboard: Once logged in, you’ll see a dashboard where you can start a new project. This is typically where you upload your art layers and configure project settings.

Uploading and Layering Traits

Your no-code platform will let you upload each trait layer separately. You then arrange these layers in the correct order. For instance:

1. Background

2. Character (base)

3. Clothing

4. Face Elements (eyes, mouth, etc.)

5. Accessories (glasses, hats)

Most platforms have a simple drag-and-drop feature to ensure everything stacks properly without overlapping in strange ways.

Configuring Rarity

NFT rarity configuration is where you decide how often a trait appears among the generated images. For example, if you want a “Golden Crown” trait to be super rare, you might set it to appear in only 1% of your collection. Balancing rarity is key to keeping collectors excited, as scarce items often become the most coveted.

Generating Previews

Once you’ve set up your layers and rarity levels, generate a batch of test images. Look them over to confirm everything looks right—no weird overlaps or unintended color clashing. If you spot issues, adjust your settings or fix layer alignments before finalizing.

Minting Your Collection

Minting is the process of turning your art into an NFT on the blockchain. Common steps include:

1. Connect a Crypto Wallet: Metamask is a popular option.

2. Pay Gas Fees (If Applicable): These are transaction costs for writing data to the blockchain.

3. On-Chain vs. Off-Chain Metadata: On-chain stores your images directly on the blockchain, which can be expensive. Off-chain uses services like IPFS to host your images, cutting costs.

4. Click “Mint” or “Generate NFTs.”

Listing & Launching

After your NFTs are minted, you’ll want to make them available to buyers. Popular marketplaces include OpenSea and Rarible, though you can also use a custom smart contract if you want more control.

1. Create a Collection Page: Upload a banner, add a description, and set a royalty percentage for secondary sales.

2. Double-Check Everything: Mistakes can be hard to fix once your collection is live.

3. Go Public: Share your collection link and start promoting on social media.

Troubleshooting & Common Pitfalls

Platform Issues

Sometimes you’ll run into glitches or slow loading times, especially if many people are using the platform at once. If your minting process stalls or you get error messages, contact the platform’s support team. Also, keep an eye on gas spikes (when transaction fees surge). You may want to wait if fees are too high at that moment.

Quality Control

Make sure traits align properly. Nothing frustrates collectors like hair that floats above a head or eyes that don’t line up. Double-check your NFT layering during preview generation. Also, ensure your metadata—like trait labels—matches what’s in the actual art file. Consistency is key to a professional product.

Security Concerns

• Protect Your Wallet: Never share your seed phrase or private key.

• Beware of Scams: Only visit official tool links from trusted sources.

• Use Secure Networks: Avoid using public Wi-Fi for wallet transactions if you can.

Final Thoughts

Starting a Generative NFT Art collection can be really exciting. It mixes your creativity, the support of a community, and the thrill of new technology—all without requiring coding skills. If you have any questions or want to talk about your own experience, feel free to connect on social media. Hearing about other people’s adventures with generative NFTs often sparks new ideas for everyone involved.

By following these steps, you can bring your collection to life, attract collectors with unique artwork, and begin carving out your space in the growing world of blockchain art. Take it one step at a time, experiment with different approaches, and remember that this is just the beginning of your journey into generative NFT creativity.

Editor’s note: Written with the assistance of AI – Edited and fact-checked by Jason Newey.

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital art, SurR.Ai has rapidly emerged as a beacon of innovation. Celebrating its second year, the platform has launched 16 groundbreaking physical and on-chain digital art collections. This significant milestone ushers in a new era marked by seamless integration of blockchain security, artificial intelligence amplification, and diverse physical collectible offerings within the art world.

This celebratory occasion is highlighted by the unveiling of 16 exclusive and limited edition collections of physical and digital artworks. Each collection is distinct in its thematic focus and creative execution, yet all harmoniously demonstrate SurR.Ai’s innovative approach. This method combines human creativity with the cutting-edge capabilities of artificial intelligence, resulting in a vibrant and diverse array of physical and digital collectibles.

These collections not only underscore SurR.Ai’s role as a pioneer in the digital art space and as a proponent of the phygital concept but also showcase the potential for AI to revolutionize traditional artistic processes. They offer a glimpse into the future of art in the 21st century and beyond.

1. FameFocus Collection: Celebrating Icons

“FameFocus” stands out for its stained-glass inspired portraits of celebrities and iconic figures, blending art with celebrity culture in a vibrant tribute that spans across ages and realms.

2. Variety Series: A Community of Collectors

The “Variety Series” is a testament to SurR.Ai’s commitment to fostering a community around NFTs, offering an eclectic mix of crypto collectibles that push the boundaries of digital creativity.

3. Above Reality: Abstract Visions

“Above Reality” invites audiences to interpret avant-garde abstract art, challenging perceptions and encouraging a deeper engagement with the surreal aspects of digital creativity.

4. Instagram Collection: Digital Art for the Modern Era

SurR.Ai’s “Instagram Collection” leverages social media to present contemporary digital art secured by blockchain technology, creating an interactive platform for art enthusiasts to explore and engage with cutting-edge “phygital” creations by SurR.Ai.

5. Cosmism Collection: Exploring the Cosmos

With “Cosmism,” viewers are drawn into a profound exploration of cosmic wonders, reflecting on the vastness of time and space through digital art that evokes a sense of universal interconnectedness.

6. UltraHD Phygital Art: Merging Worlds

The “UltraHD Phygital Art” collection redefines contemporary art by blending it with digital innovation, meticulously designed for premium large-format printing and showcasing the seamless integration of digital and physical realms.

7. Lizzies Collection: A Dive into the Extraordinary

Inspired by speculative writings, “Lizzies” explores the mysterious intersection of human and reptilian, terrestrial and extraterrestrial, through unique interpretations that challenge the ordinary.

8. Rayonism Collection: A Digital Renaissance

SurR.Ai pays homage to the early 20th-century art movement, Rayonism, bringing its innovative and abstract style to the digital age with a collection that reinvigorates historical art movements.

9. SurReal Fashion Collection: The Future of Fashion

Merging fashion with technology, this collection showcases digital fashion’s potential for sustainability, inclusivity, and customization, pointing towards future trends in fashion design and consumption.

10. SurRLife: Kids & Pets: Whimsical Companions

Featuring a variety of playful and fantastical creatures, “SurRLife: Kids & Pets” is perfect for collectors and families, offering delightful digital companions that stand out in creativity and design.

11. Timeless Halloween Collection: Celebrating Spookiness Year-Round

With surreal, spooky themes, “Timeless Halloween” offers collectibles that capture the essence of Halloween anytime, blending fun and investment in timeless, themed NFTs.

12. LVA Collection: A Fusion of AI and Creativity

“LVA” showcases the limitless possibilities of blending artificial intelligence with human creativity, featuring mesmerizing animated videos that pay tribute to historical art styles with a modern twist.

13. Portraiture Collection: Capturing Individuality

“Portraiture” combines traditional artistry with digital technology in a stained-glass inspired technique, offering captivating portraits that celebrate the uniqueness of individuals.

14. Rarible Collection: A Curated Digital Experience

On Rarible, SurR.Ai presents a carefully curated collection of SurReal NFTs, featuring animated videos and still images that embody the pinnacle of digital artistry and creativity.

15. Mintable Collection: Dreamlike Artistry

Available on Mintable, this collection dives into surreal visions, showcasing a blend of art and technology in pieces that ensure authenticity and embrace the revolutionary side of digital art.

16. Phygital Art Collection on HUG [New!]

Discover and shop a variety of digital and physical creations from SurR.Ai.

As SurR.Ai marks its 2nd year of trailblazing in the convergence of visual arts and AI, it stands as a testament to the transformative power of technology in expanding the boundaries of art. Each of these 16 collections not only showcases SurR.Ai’s innovative spirit but also paves the way for future explorations in the physical and digital art realms. With over 1,600 phygital collectibles and invaluable educational resources, SurR.Ai’s venture is akin to a virtual art fair, promising a monumental impact on the art world for decades to come.

If a price isn’t displayed, we’re open to hearing your offers.

SurR.Ai is a leader in ‘Phygital Art’, offering digital art as NFTs (leveraging blockchain technology) as well as physical formats such as fine art and video prints. Customers can buy NFTs from SurR.Ai and order corresponding physical versions, including fine art prints from VastPhotos.com or WhiteWall.com, and loop video prints from InfiniteObjects.com. SurR.Ai typically provides NFTs in medium resolution, but also offers the option to upgrade to Ultra High Resolution for high-definition quality prints, available through an artwork commission.

Read also: The Best Place to Find Rare and Unique Crypto Collectibles: Discover the World of NFTs with SurR.Ai’s Innovative News Aggregation.

SurR.Ai is currently accepting commissions. Interested in a custom piece? Send us a request to begin discussing your ideas today.

Stay informed on the intersection of art, technology, & commerce in the rapidly evolving world of digital collectibles.

Digital crypto collectibles (NFTs) are reshaping the art world, offering a new platform for artists and a novel investment opportunity for collectors. Their significance extends beyond the digital realm, as they can be converted into tangible forms like high-resolution prints. This fusion of digital and physical art offers both a novel way for art enthusiasts to display their collections and a fresh investment avenue. The market for NFTs is rapidly growing, with their tangible versions adding an extra layer of value and investment potential.  As the market for these digital assets continues to grow, so too does the potential for investment and enjoyment of art in its many forms.

Now with the MoonPay checkout integration, OpenSea users can easily purchase an NFT using a debit or credit card, sidestepping the need to first acquire cryptocurrency.

MoonPay now supports the purchase of Ethereum, Solana, and Polygon NFTs with a debit or credit card. With this new feature, collectors can pay directly with major payment methods like MasterCard, Visa, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. This is a big step towards the goal of making NFTs accessible to everyone.

Get some SurR for Your NFT Collection!

A cool gift for every season & any occasion.

Just for fun or as an investment.

SurR.Ai, a cutting-edge startup that provides a convenient platform for buying a diverse range of surreal Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs). It offers a one-stop-shop solution for acquiring animated videos and still images as digital collectibles, available on popular marketplaces like OpenSea, Rarible, and Mintable

Behind every NFT is a Story.
Read them on NFTsurRPost.com and
Follow Us at https://lnkd.in/ed6kQx9r

You can discover our unique content and access our blog directly at NFTSurRPost.com. Additionally, stay updated by following us on Twitter & Instagram.

NFTSurRPost.com publication serves as a platform for sharing backstories, news, and ideas that have inspired the creation of our digital collectibles. We want to give our readers a better understanding of the art and creativity that goes into each collectible, including the concepts and references that are incorporated into each one.

Stay ahead of the curve & embrace the dynamic evolution of business, technology, visual arts, and digital collectibles. Visit our NFT collections on OpenSea, Rarible & Mintable and stay tuned for new drops, sets, series, collections and special editions!