Crypto theft surged by 21% in 2024, hitting $2.2bn across 303 incidents. While early 2024 hacks set a record pace, activity slowed in Q3 and Q4. North Korean hackers were responsible for 61% of the total, stealing $1.34bn in 47 attacks.

⚫Shift in Targets: Centralized services, not DeFi platforms, bore the brunt in mid-2024. Notable cases include DMM Bitcoin ($305m) and WazirX ($234.9m).

⚫DPRK’s Increasing Activity: North Korean hackers executed more frequent, high-value attacks, funding state programs. However, post-July, stolen funds dropped 53%, potentially linked to geopolitical shifts.

⚫Primary Exploit: Private key compromises accounted for 43.8% of stolen crypto, highlighting vulnerabilities in centralized services.

⚫Evolving Laundering Tactics: Hackers shifted to using bridges and mixers over DEXs for obfuscation.