Nuclear Upgrades and Crypto Cyberattacks Uncovered
A new report by United Nations (UN) sanctions monitors alleges that North Korea has engaged in extensive cyberattacks, resulting in a theft of $3 billion worth of crypto assets. Despite international sanctions, the monitors found that North Korea has continued to enhance its nuclear arsenal and produce nuclear fissile materials. The country has also conducted ballistic missile launches, deployed a tactical nuclear attack submarine, and even placed a satellite into orbit.
North Korea’s Alleged Cyber Assaults
The UN report identifies 58 suspected cyberattacks on crypto-related companies between 2017 and 2023, totaling approximately $3 billion. These attacks reportedly provided significant funding for North Korea’s weapons of mass destruction development. Hacking groups affiliated with the Reconnaissance General Bureau, the country’s primary foreign intelligence agency, were responsible for these cyber assaults. The report also raises concerns about North Korea supplying conventional arms and munitions, which violates existing sanctions.
International Response and Illicit Trade
The Security Council is unlikely to take immediate action against North Korea in response to the allegations, as it has historically been deadlocked on the issue. China and Russia have advocated for easing sanctions to encourage North Korea to return to denuclearization talks. The report also highlights signs of trade recovery in North Korea, with a higher trade volume in 2023 compared to 2022. The monitors discovered the reappearance of foreign consumer goods prohibited under Security Council sanctions and investigated reports of North Korean nationals violating sanctions while working overseas.
Hot Take: UN Report Exposes Massive Crypto Theft by North Korea
In a recently reviewed unpublished report by Reuters, United Nations (UN) sanctions monitors have alleged that North Korea engaged in a massive theft of crypto assets, raking in $3 billion through cyberattacks. The report reveals that despite international sanctions, North Korea has continued to enhance its nuclear arsenal and produce nuclear fissile materials. It also highlights the country’s ballistic missile launches, deployment of a tactical nuclear attack submarine, and satellite placement. Hacking groups affiliated with North Korea’s primary foreign intelligence agency were responsible for the cyberattacks on crypto-related companies. The report raises concerns about North Korea’s supply of conventional arms and munitions, as well as its access to the international financial system for illicit activities involving crypto assets.
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