North Korean Hackers Steal $3 Billion in Crypto
A recent intelligence report by Recorded Future reveals that state-sponsored hackers from North Korea have stolen approximately $3 billion in digital currency since 2017. These hackers, including the Lazarus Group, shifted their attention from traditional finance to the crypto industry during the 2017 bubble. Initially targeting crypto exchanges in South Korea, they managed to steal around $82.7 million worth of crypto assets. However, their operations have expanded over the years, with an estimated $1.7 billion worth of cryptocurrency stolen in 2022 alone.
Crypto Security Challenges
The crypto industry has implemented security measures and regulations to counter hacks and thefts. Sanctions have been imposed on mixers like Sinbad and Tornado Cash, which are commonly used by hackers to launder stolen funds. Despite these efforts, hackers continue to develop new methods to carry out their activities. According to blockchain security firm SlowMist, more than $30 billion has been lost to crypto hacks since 2012. While security measures have led to a decrease in crypto crimes, North Korean hackers still managed to steal at least $180 million in the first half of 2023.
Hot Take: Protecting Crypto Assets Against State-Sponsored Hacks
Hacks and thefts remain significant drawbacks of the crypto industry due to the anonymity of transactions. The report on North Korean hackers stealing billions of dollars worth of digital currency highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the industry. It emphasizes the importance of robust security measures and continuous innovation in countering these threats. As the crypto industry evolves, it is crucial for individuals and organizations to stay vigilant and adopt best practices for protecting their crypto assets against state-sponsored hacking attempts.
By
By
By
By