Resilienceapac – North Korean hackers have successfully cashed out at least $300 million from their record-breaking $1.5 billion hack on the crypto exchange ByBit. The hackers, believed to be part of the infamous Lazarus Group, orchestrated the attack two weeks ago, swiping an enormous haul of digital tokens. Since then, a global effort has been underway to track and block their attempts to convert the stolen cryptocurrency into usable cash. However, experts warn that these cybercriminals are highly skilled and well-equipped, making the task of recovering the funds increasingly difficult.
On February 21, the North Korean hackers infiltrated a supplier of ByBit. Secretly altering the digital wallet address that was supposed to receive 401,000 Ethereum coins. ByBit, unaware of the breach, mistakenly transferred the funds directly into the hands of the hackers. Since the attack, hackers have rapidly moved the stolen assets across various crypto wallets to obscure their origins.
Dr. Tom Robinson, co-founder of crypto analytics firm Elliptic, explains that the Lazarus Group operates with extreme efficiency. He said that hackers try to confuse the money trail every minute, using highly sophisticated techniques. Robinson believes that the group works in shifts, utilizing automated tools and years of experience to launder the stolen assets.
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ByBit has taken swift action to counter the attack. Replenishing stolen assets through investor loans and launching the “Lazarus Bounty” program. This initiative incentivizes the public to track and freeze stolen funds, with $4 million already paid out to individuals. Who helped identify and block $40 million worth of illicit transactions.
Despite these efforts, experts remain skeptical about recovering the remaining funds, given North Korea’s deep expertise in laundering stolen crypto. The U.S. and its allies have long accused North Korean hackers of executing numerous cyber heists to fund the regime’s military and nuclear ambitions.
Adding to the challenge, not all crypto exchanges are cooperating. ByBit and others have accused the crypto platform eXch of failing to prevent hackers from cashing out over $90 million. The exchange’s owner, Johann Roberts. Initially resisted blocking the funds due to an ongoing dispute with ByBit but claims to now be cooperating.
As the battle to track the stolen funds continues. Experts warn that North Korea’s well-established cybercrime industry will remain a formidable threat to the crypto world.
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