A recent study by Chainalysis, a blockchain analytics firm, has revealed a surge in cyber attacks on cryptocurrency platforms linked to North Korea. The data, covering the period from 2016 to 2023, indicates that 20 crypto platforms were targeted by North Korean hackers in 2023 alone, marking the highest level in the recorded period.
According to the report, North Korean hackers managed to steal just over $1 billion in crypto assets in the past year. While this amount is slightly less than the record $1.7 billion stolen in 2022, the increasing trend is a cause for concern among cybersecurity experts.
Chainalysis highlighted the growing threat from cyber-espionage groups like Kimsuky and Lazarus Group, employing various malicious tactics to accumulate significant amounts of crypto assets. This aligns with the Federal Bureau of Investigation's (FBI) previous attribution of a $100 million crypto heist on the Horizon Bridge in 2022 to North Korea-linked hackers.
Supporting these findings, TRM Labs, a blockchain intelligence firm, reported that North Korea-affiliated hackers stole at least $600 million in crypto assets in 2023. The frequency and success of these attacks underscore the sophistication and persistence of North Korea's cyber capabilities.
The report cited a notable incident in September, where the FBI confirmed that North Korea's Lazarus Group was responsible for stealing around $41 million in crypto assets from the online casino and betting platform Stake.com. Investigations led to the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioning Sinbad.io, a virtual currency mixer identified as a key money-laundering tool for Lazarus Group.
Global efforts to counter the threat include sanctions, particularly as previous research indicated that North Korea-affiliated hackers used stolen crypto funds to finance nuclear weapons programs. The UN has imposed sanctions to limit the regime's access to funding sources supporting its nuclear activities.
TRM Labs emphasized the need for ongoing vigilance and innovation from businesses and governments, stating, "With nearly $1.5 billion stolen in the past two years alone, North Korea’s hacking prowess demands continuous vigilance and innovation from business and governments."
Despite advancements in cybersecurity and increased international collaboration, the report predicts that 2024 is likely to see further disruptions from North Korea, posing a challenge for the global community to strengthen defenses against the relentless digital attacks. The report was released by CNBC.