DeFi Protocol Hacks Surge in Q1 2026 with $168.6 Million Lost

Crypto hacks have been on the rise, particularly in the decentralized finance (DeFi) sector. According to recent data from DeFiLlama, hackers stole approximately $168.6 million from 34 DeFi protocols and applications in the first quarter of 2026.

The largest exploit occurred at Step Finance in January, where a private key breach resulted in the loss of $40 million. This was followed by a smart contract manipulation that enabled thieves to siphon $26.5 million worth of Ether from Truebit on January 8.

Resolv Labs became the target of another major hack on March 21, marking the largest DeFi exploit in Q1. Experts attribute these attacks to organized groups and opportunistic hackers who take advantage of high liquidity periods during bull markets.