U.S. Justice Department seizes $1.2 billion in cryptocurrency stolen from Binance - 디지털투데이
U.S. authorities have seized approximately $1.2 billion worth of digital assets stolen from cryptocurrency exchange Binance last month, following court approval.
The seizure represents a significant recovery in one of the largest cryptocurrency thefts in history. Binance was robbed of more than $6 billion on October 29, with U.S. government agencies and private companies collaborating to freeze over $2.7 billion of the stolen assets.
The FBI has identified members of the North Korean military operating under the name 'TraderTraitor' as responsible for the attack. These hackers continue to launder stolen funds through multiple cryptocurrency channels, prompting authorities to intensify their tracing and freezing efforts.
FaceStealer Infrastructure
Authorities also seized cloud-based infrastructure known as 'FaceStealer,' which was used in large-scale identity impersonation fraud. The scheme involves hackers holding fake video meetings using stolen accounts, recorded videos of targets' acquaintances, and AI-generated deepfakes.
During these meetings, hackers install malware on victims' computers under the guise of fixing technical problems, then take over communications and steal cryptocurrency. The attacks often target people working in the cryptocurrency and Web3 industries, with crimes sometimes occurring months or even years after the initial compromise.
North Korean Funding
M. Scott Proctor from the Justice Department emphasized that the North Korean government funds its regime and illegal weapons programs through cryptocurrency theft. He stated that the United States will use every available means to seize and return proceeds obtained unlawfully by North Korea.
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