cryptojournalist
Hackers linked to North Korea stole $1.3 billion in cryptocurrency in 2024, doubling their 2023 total of $660 million, according to Chainalysis. These thefts made up 61% of all reported crypto hacks for the year, with attacks becoming larger and more frequent.
Chainalysis noted a rise in high-value hacks, with incidents over $50 million and $100 million occurring more often.
Notable Hacks in 2024
North Korea has been tied to major crypto thefts. In 2024, key incidents included:
BingX Exchange: $44 million stolen in September.
WazirX Exchange: Hackers stole $235 million in July by compromising an Ethereum wallet.
Global Crypto Theft in 2024
Hackers worldwide stole $2.2 billion in cryptocurrency in 2024, a 21% increase from 2023 but far less than the $3.7 billion taken in 2022. DeFi platforms were hit hardest early in the year, while centralized services were targeted more in later quarters.
Decline in DPRK Activity
North Korea’s hacking slowed in the second half of 2024, possibly due to its closer ties with Russia. However, Chainalysis cautioned against directly linking this decline to political events.
