Lazarus Group, a North Korean Hacker Collective, Stole $3 Billion in Cryptocurrency Over 6 Years
According to a report released by the cybersecurity firm Recorded Future, the Lazarus Group, an organization associated with North Korea, has stolen $3 billion in cryptocurrency over the past six years. The report states that in 2022 alone, the Lazarus Group looted $1.7 billion in cryptocurrency, likely providing funds for North Korean projects. Chainalysis, a blockchain data analysis company, indicates that $1.1 billion of this was stolen from DeFi platforms. A report released by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in September highlighted Lazarus exploitation of DeFi protocols as part of its Analysis Exchange Program (AEP). The Lazarus Group specializes in fund theft. In 2016, they breached the Bangladesh Central Bank, stealing $81 million. In 2018, they attacked the Japanese cryptocurrency exchange Coincheck, making off with $530 million, and targeted the Central Bank of Malaysia, stealing $390 million.Process Since 2017, North Korea has targeted the cryptocurrency industry as a key focus for cyberattacks, resulting in the theft of over $3 billion worth of cryptocurrency. Prior to this, North Korea had hijacked the SWIFT network, enabling them to siphon funds between financial institutions. Such activities have drawn close attention from international bodies, prompting financial institutions to invest in enhancing their own network