Blockchain analysis firm Chainalysis details that out of $2.2 billion worth of cryptocurrency, at least $1.34 billion was stolen in 2024 by state-sponsored North Korean hackers.
This represents a significant increase from the $660.5 million they stole in 2023, a rise of over 100%. Hackers affiliated with North Korea are estimated to be responsible for 61% of all global cryptocurrency thefts, showcasing their dominance in the digital crime space.
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Organized Cybercrime: North Korean Hackers
The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has identified the Lazarus Group as a key player in many of these heists.
However, several other North Korean hacking units are actively involved, including TraderTraitor, suspected of orchestrating the May cyberattack on Japan’s DMM Bitcoin exchange.
These hacker groups are notorious for employing advanced malware and social engineering tactics to carry out cryptocurrency theft.
