The FBI Warns Crypto Operators of Potential $40 Million Bitcoin Sale by North Korean Hackers
The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued a warning to crypto operators, informing them that entities connected to North Korean hackers may try to sell over $40 million worth of bitcoin. The FBI has been tracking the crypto stolen by groups known as Lazarus Group and APT38, both tied to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). These groups utilize a tactic called “TraderTraitor” to carry out their attacks. The FBI has provided a list of Bitcoin addresses where the stolen funds are currently held, after having been recently moved.
Key Points:
– The FBI believes that the DPRK may attempt to cash out the stolen bitcoin, which is valued at more than $40 million.
– Private sector entities are advised to examine the blockchain data associated with the provided addresses and be cautious of any transactions with or derived from these addresses.
– The Lazarus Group, based in North Korea, has consistently targeted the blockchain sector and employs spearphishing methods and malicious software to steal cryptocurrency.
– TraderTraitor is the term used by the U.S. government to refer to the malicious applications used by DPRK-affiliated actors.
– The FBI has linked Lazarus Group and APT38 to various high-profile heists, including attacks on Alphapo, CoinsPaid, Atomic Wallet, Harmony’s Horizon Bridge, and Sky Mavis’s Ronin Bridge.
Hot Take:
The FBI’s warning serves as a reminder to the crypto community of the ongoing threats posed by North Korean hackers. It emphasizes the importance of remaining vigilant and taking necessary precautions to safeguard against potential attacks. The involvement of Lazarus Group and APT38 in multiple high-profile heists highlights the sophistication and persistence of these threat actors. Crypto operators must continue to prioritize cybersecurity measures to protect their assets and the wider industry from such malicious activities.
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