**News Flash: Crypto Fraud Soars, Election Impact, and More**

**FBI Report: Crypto Fraud Hits $5.6B in 2023**

The FBI's latest report reveals Americans lost a staggering $5.6 billion to cryptocurrency fraud in 2023, marking a 45% increase from 2022. Investment schemes were the primary culprits, with seniors over 60 losing $1.6 billion. The FBI advises skepticism towards online investment opportunities from unknown individuals.

**Crypto in the 2024 US Election**

Cryptocurrencies are set to influence the upcoming U.S. presidential election. A Gemini survey shows 73% of U.S. crypto owners will consider candidates' crypto regulation stances, with 37% saying it will significantly impact their vote.

**Caroline Ellison Seeks Leniency**

Former Alameda Research CEO Caroline Ellison's lawyers are requesting a sentence of time served, citing her cooperation with authorities following her guilty plea in the FTX scandal. They argue her extensive cooperation and clean record merit leniency.

**Vitalik Buterin on Layer-2 Solutions**

Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin insists on recognizing only Layer-2 solutions that meet his decentralization standards starting next year. He emphasizes the importance of cryptographic trust over multisig setups.

**North Korean Hackers Eye Bitcoin ETFs**

North Korean hackers, including the notorious Lazarus Group, may target U.S.-based Bitcoin ETFs next, warns Cyvers' Michael Pearl. The potential high rewards make these financial entities attractive targets.

Stay tuned for more updates on the ever-evolving world of cryptocurrency and finance.