Crypto Crime Wave: How Lazarus Group is Cashing In on Your Misery! 💸

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So, it turns out that ZachXBT, our friendly neighborhood on-chain investigator, has uncovered a black market on the Tron blockchain that’s worth a staggering $5 to $10 billion. Yes, you read that right—billion with a “B.” Apparently, funds stolen in recent crypto exchange hacks, which are allegedly linked to North Korea’s Lazarus Group, have been laundered through some very shady networks and tiny over-the-counter (OTC) brokers. Who knew laundering could be so… lucrative? 🤑

In a recent post on X (formerly known as Twitter, because who doesn’t love a good rebranding?), ZachXBT lamented the growing scale of crypto-related crime. He estimates that this so-called “Black U” market is thriving, while the rest of us are just trying to figure out how to buy a cup of coffee with our digital wallets. But don’t worry, most of it is still untraceable—so, you know, it’s like a magic trick, but with stolen money! 🎩✨

Is Crypto “Ripe For Abuse”? 🍇

He pointed out that platforms like Bybit, DMM Bitcoin, and WazirX have been hit hard, with stolen assets being laundered “with ease.” It’s almost like they’re handing out free passes to criminals. ZachXBT also criticized protocol teams that keep cashing in while conveniently ignoring the illicit activities happening right under their noses. Apparently, over 50% of some protocols’ usage might come from stolen funds. Who knew crime could be so profitable? 🙄

His comments reflect a broader frustration over what he calls a “crime supercycle.” It’s like a never-ending rollercoaster ride of minimal accountability. He noted that the launch of meme coins by politicians and the dismissal of key court cases have allowed bad actors to operate with little fear of consequences. It’s like a free-for-all, and we’re all just spectators at this bizarre circus. 🎪

“Can we fix the system if the vast majority of people still do not care unless they lose money? It’s concerning about what the long-term ramifications may be even if these decisions benefit us in the short term. If you ever wanted the opportunity to extract from the industry, there’s not been much of a better time. Take a chance—what’s the worst thing that could happen if everyone’s already doing it?”

Lazarus Group’s Latest Trap 🕸️

In a plot twist worthy of a bad thriller, the Lazarus Group has shifted its tactics. They’re now targeting centralized finance (CeFi) job seekers with a new malware campaign called “ClickFix.” According to cybersecurity firm Sekoia, this isn’t your typical attack on developers. No, they’re now impersonating major crypto firms like Coinbase and Tether to lure in unsuspecting non-technical professionals. Because who wouldn’t want to run PowerShell commands to “fix” their fake webcam issues during an interview? Spoiler alert: it’s a one-way ticket to malware city! 🚀

With 184 fake invitations referencing 14 companies, this strategy marks a disturbing evolution in Lazarus’s psychological manipulation techniques. It’s like they’re playing chess while the rest of us are still trying to figure out checkers. Good luck out there, folks! 🥳

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2025-06-18 19:38