North Korean hackers stole more than $180 million in cryptocurrencies in six months

In the first half of 2023, hackers from North Korea, by exploiting a range of exploits, stole $180 million across various cryptocurrencies. Local media report, citing data from South Korea’s intelligence services.

One of the most dangerous factions remains the Lazarus Group, which is suspected in numerous hacks. In particular, the hackers are thought to be involved in the July heist of $37 million from the payment service CoinsPaid.

They have also been blamed for attacks on other crypto companies, including the Ronin sidechain Ronin, the Atomic Wallet wallet Atomic Wallet, the Alphapo platform Alphapo and the Horizon cross-chain bridge Horizon.

According to some reports, the total damage to the crypto industry from actions linked to Pyongyang-linked cybercriminals amounted to $3 billion. Half of this sum financed a programme to develop ballistic missiles.