Lazarus Group Steals $2B in Crypto by 2025, Targeting Major Exchanges
Written by Ohris M. Greyoon, Blockchain & Crypto Expert
Source: Coinmarketcap
Updated: Dec 29 2025- Cyber Theft Escalation: In 2025, the Lazarus Group executed sophisticated cyber attacks, stealing at least $2 billion in cryptocurrency, primarily targeting major exchanges like Bybit and Upbit, which directly destabilizes the global crypto market.
- Funding for Nuclear Activities: These thefts not only resulted in significant losses for exchanges but also funded North Korea's nuclear programs, highlighting the close ties between cybercrime and national security.
- Increased Security Risks: As vulnerabilities in the cryptocurrency market grow, assets held by exchanges, particularly altcoins, face heightened risks, prompting global policymakers to enhance cybersecurity measures in response to these threats.
- Evolving Laundering Techniques: Insights from Chainalysis indicate that North Korea's laundering techniques are continuously improving, which may lead to tighter regulations globally and necessitate enhanced security measures at exchanges to combat increasingly complex cybercrime environments.
About the author
Ohris M. Greyoon
Ohris M. Greyoon holds a Master’s in Computer Science from MIT and has 10 years of experience in blockchain technology and cryptocurrency markets. A pioneer in decentralized finance (DeFi) analysis, he leads Intellectia’s Crypto News, offering cutting-edge insights into digital assets.
