Blockchain investigator ZachXBT has revealed seven wallet addresses linked to the notorious North Korean hacking group, Lazarus. These wallets contain a significant amount of cryptocurrency, specifically 891.13 Bitcoin. ZachXBT shared these wallet details on May 21, underscoring ongoing efforts to track and control illicit activities orchestrated by the group.
Previously, ZachXBT’s investigations have led to the freezing of $3.8 million in digital assets by the authorities. The detailed research from ZachXBT has been instrumental in understanding the mechanisms used by Lazarus to launder stolen funds. The revealed wallets still hold the flagged amounts, highlighting the persistent presence and influence of the hacker group within the crypto space.
On April 29, ZachXBT published a comprehensive analysis describing how Lazarus Group laundered approximately $200 million from over 25 hacks since 2020. The study disclosed that the hackers utilized peer-to-peer (P2P) marketplaces and crypto-mixing services to convert the stolen cryptocurrency into fiat currency. One significant finding was that around $44 million were laundered through P2P marketplaces such as Paxul and Noones.
The usernames “EasyGoatfish351” and “FairJunco470” were identified for their significant deposit and trading volumes that matched the amount of stolen funds. ZachXBT’s investigation also highlighted that the laundered digital assets were frequently converted into Tether (USDT) before being further exchanged into fiat and withdrawn, creating multiple layers to disguise the origin of the funds.
Earlier this year, the Lazarus Group became active again after a period of inactivity. On January 8, they transferred $1.2 million in stolen digital assets from a mixer to an inactive wallet. This transfer included 27.37 Bitcoin, worth $1.2 million at the time, in two separate transactions. Following these transactions, 3.343 BTC, valued at $150,582, was moved to a previously known address, indicating a pattern in their laundering activities.
In another incident on April 24, the Lazarus Group was seen utilizing LinkedIn to carry out malware attacks. They posed as applicants for blockchain developer roles within the crypto space as a ploy to gain access to sensitive employee credentials. Blockchain security firm Slowmist identified and flagged these attacks, emphasizing the group’s evolving and sophisticated methods of targeting their victims.
The Lazarus Group continues to be one of the most formidable criminal entities in the cryptocurrency realm. Over the past six years leading up to 2023, they have stolen more than $3 billion in digital assets. Remarkably, the group managed to steal $1.7 billion in 2022 alone, a figure that surpasses North Korea’s total annual income from exports by almost ten times.
This ongoing confrontation with the Lazarus Group underscores the critical need for robust security measures and vigilant monitoring within the crypto industry. As blockchain investigators continue their efforts, the battle against such criminal enterprises remains a high-stakes and dynamic challenge.
Honestly, shouldn’t we be worrying more about preventing these hacks in the first place rather than just tracking the stolen funds after the fact?
A big thumbs up to ZachXBT! Continuously bringing transparency and safety to the crypto community!
Bravo to ZachXBT! His work is crucial in combating crypto crimes and maintaining trust in the community! 🛡️💻💪
Great, so now we know about the hackers’ wallets, but what about actual solutions to stop them for good? This feels like a band-aid on a bullet wound. 💔
So they launder $200 million through P2P marketplaces and crypto-mixing services, and all we can do is sit back and watch them keep doing it? Pathetic.
Incredible job, ZachXBT! Your work helps ensure the safety and integrity of the crypto community! 🛡️💻👏
Great, now even LinkedIn isn’t safe from these hackers. What’s next? Are they going to start attacking through dating apps?
It’s always the same storytrack some wallets, find some funds, and then what? These hackers keep getting away with billions. Feels pointless.
Hats off to ZachXBT for shining a light on these illicit activities! Keeping us all more informed! 🌟🔍👏
ZachXBTs investigations are nothing short of heroic! Keeping the crypto world safe, one reveal at a time!
Cheers to ZachXBT! His revelations are a critical force in the fight against crypto crime! 🚀🕵️♂️💪
Kudos to ZachXBT! His consistent efforts shed light on the dark corridors of crypto crime! 🚀👨💻👏
It’s disturbing that groups like Lazarus are still able to pull off these massive heists. When will the crypto industry start enforcing real security measures?
So, they managed to steal $1.7 billion last year but we’re celebrating the fact that $3.8 million got recovered? Those numbers are ridiculous.
Hats off to ZachXBT for his detailed investigations! A vital asset in the crypto security space!
Kudos to ZachXBT for his tireless efforts in exposing these bad actors! Making crypto safer every day!
Impressive investigation skills, ZachXBT! The crypto community is grateful for your vigilance!
ZachXBT is truly a detective in the digital world! Thanks for your hard work in exposing these cybercriminals!
Outstanding dedication by ZachXBT! The crypto world stands stronger with investigators like him!
How many more wake-up calls does the crypto industry need before we start seeing significant changes in security protocols? 😠
Superb work by ZachXBT! His investigation provides critical insights to protect our digital assets!