North Korean Hackers Dominate Crypto Exploits

North Korea's hacking groups are responsible for 76% of crypto losses this year, according to a new report from TRMLabs.

The report highlights the increasing sophistication of North Korean hackers, who are using more precise and targeted attacks. One notable example is the Drift Protocol exploit, which involved months of in-person meetings between North Korean proxies and employees.

Unlike other hacks, the Drift exploit did not involve a remote keyboard operation. Instead, it relied on social engineering tactics to gain access to the protocol's systems.

The attackers' playbook included draining the funds to USDC, bridging to Ethereum, and swapping into ETH. This is consistent with the DPRK's patient, multi-year cashout pattern.