In the world of cybersecurity and cryptocurrency recovery, Joe Grand—also known by his hacker alias “Kingpin”—is a respected figure. A skilled computer engineer and hardware hacker, Grand has built a reputation for helping individuals regain access to their digital wallets and recover lost crypto assets.
Earlier this week, he shared a documentary on YouTube detailing one of his most intriguing cases from last year. The mission: help a man from Seattle recover what was believed to be millions of dollars in Bitcoin stored on an old Samsung Galaxy SIII smartphone.
The Client and His Story
Lavar Sanders, the owner of the device, claimed he had purchased Bitcoin back in 2013 in what he described as a “super sketchy” way—handing cash to a stranger in a Starbucks and receiving the cryptocurrency in return. He stored it in a mobile wallet on his Samsung phone.
Years later, in 2021, Sanders found the old device but had completely forgotten the password. What’s more, he recalled enabling a security feature that would wipe the phone’s data after too many failed login attempts.
Desperate to recover the funds, Sanders and a friend discovered Joe Grand’s YouTube channel and decided to reach out for help.
The Technical Challenge
Grand and his team traveled from Portland to Seattle to take on the challenge. The Samsung Galaxy SIII, though outdated, still posed significant obstacles:
- Hardware encryption and lock-screen protections
- Risk of triggering a full data wipe
- Outdated operating system with limited exploit options
Using micro-soldering techniques, memory downloads, and pattern-lock bypass methods, Grand worked for hours to gain access to the device’s internal storage without triggering the security wipe.
Eventually, he successfully broke into the phone and accessed the MyCelium Bitcoin wallet.
The Unexpected Result
To everyone’s surprise, the wallet contained only 0.00300861 BTC—worth approximately $105 at the time the video was filmed in 2021. At today’s prices, that amount is valued at around $63.
Further investigation into the blockchain transaction history revealed that Sanders hadn’t actually bought the Bitcoin in 2013. Instead, the purchase occurred in 2016, totaling around $400 worth of BTC. Most of these funds were later sent through a mixing service called BitBlender, which shut down in 2019.
Lessons From the Recovery Attempt
Although the outcome was disappointing, the case offers several important takeaways:
- Memory can be unreliable: Sanders misremembered key details—both the date of purchase and the amount involved.
- Third-party risks: Using mixing services or little-known platforms adds another layer of risk to cryptocurrency storage.
- Importance of records: Keeping transaction records and wallet backups is essential—especially over long periods.
Despite the letdown, Sanders remained positive:
“We didn’t make any money, but at least we made new friends.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a white hat hacker?
A white hat hacker is a cybersecurity expert who uses their skills for ethical purposes, such as helping people recover lost data or funds, testing system vulnerabilities, or improving digital security.
Can lost cryptocurrency be recovered?
In some cases, yes—especially if the issue is a forgotten password or locked device. However, if funds were sent to the wrong address or through a mixing service, recovery is often impossible.
What should I do if I lose access to a crypto wallet?
Stop attempting logins immediately if there’s a risk of data deletion. Contact a professional recovery service and gather any old passwords, seed phrases, or transaction records you may have.
How can I avoid losing my cryptocurrency?
Use hardware wallets, write down and securely store seed phrases, avoid risky platforms, and never share private keys or passwords with anyone.
Are mixing services like BitBlender safe?
Mixing services carry significant risks, including shutdowns, scams, or legal issues. They are often used to anonymize transactions but are not recommended for typical users.
Where can I learn more about crypto security?
For those looking to improve their knowledge, there are many reliable educational resources available that cover best practices for storing and securing digital assets.
Conclusion
Joe Grand’s attempt to help Lavar Sanders recover his Bitcoin is a reminder that not every recovery story has a fairytale ending. Yet, it underscores the value of professional help, the risks of poor record-keeping, and the sobering reality of cryptocurrency investments.
Whether you’re new to crypto or a seasoned holder, prioritizing security and maintaining good records can make all the difference. If you’re facing a similar situation, consider reaching out to certified experts who specialize in digital asset recovery.