Lazarus Heist: BitoPro Links North Korean Hackers to $11 Million Crypto Theft

TL;DR

The Taiwanese cryptocurrency exchange BitoPro has attributed a cyberattack resulting in the theft of $11 million in cryptocurrency to the North Korean hacking group Lazarus. The attack, which occurred on May 8, 2025, highlights the ongoing threat of state-sponsored cybercrime in the crypto industry.

The $11 Million Crypto Heist

On May 8, 2025, the Taiwanese cryptocurrency exchange BitoPro fell victim to a sophisticated cyberattack¹. The breach resulted in the theft of approximately $11 million worth of cryptocurrency. BitoPro has since conducted an extensive investigation, which has led them to attribute the attack to the infamous North Korean hacking group Lazarus¹.

Lazarus is well-known for its involvement in numerous high-profile cyberattacks, including the 2014 Sony Pictures hack and the 2017 WannaCry ransomware attack. The group’s activities are believed to be state-sponsored, aimed at generating revenue for the North Korean regime through illicit means.

Impact on the Crypto Industry

The BitoPro heist underscores the persistent threat of cybercrime within the cryptocurrency industry. Cryptocurrency exchanges remain attractive targets for hackers due to the significant financial gains they can offer. This latest incident serves as a reminder of the importance of robust security measures and continuous vigilance.

Ongoing Investigation and Implications

BitoPro is working closely with cybersecurity experts and law enforcement agencies to further investigate the attack and recover the stolen funds. The incident has also prompted calls for enhanced regulatory oversight and improved security standards within the crypto industry.

Additional Resources

For further insights, check:

• BleepingComputer

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References

1. BleepingComputer (2025). “BitoPro exchange links Lazarus hackers to $11 million crypto heist”. Retrieved 2025-06-20. ↩︎ ↩︎²