(MENAFN) In the first half of 2024, the global cryptocurrency landscape has witnessed a sharp increase in thefts, with blockchain researchers at TRM Labs reporting a staggering rise in stolen funds. According to their findings, cryptocurrency thefts amounted to USD1.38 billion by June 24, more than doubling from USD657 million during the same period in 2023. The average value per theft also saw a significant increase compared to the previous year.
TRM Labs attributes this surge in cryptocurrency thefts not to fundamental improvements in security measures but rather to the increased market value of various cryptocurrencies. As digital currencies like Bitcoin and Solana have risen in value compared to previous years, criminals have found greater financial incentives to target cryptocurrency services, enabling them to steal larger sums of money.
The recovery of cryptocurrencies from the lows experienced at the end of 2022, following the collapse of FTX under Sam Bachman, has contributed to this heightened risk environment. Bitcoin notably reached an all-time high of USD73,804 in March, reflecting renewed investor interest and a corresponding increase in criminal activity targeting digital assets.
Among the notable incidents this year, the theft of USD308 million from Japan’s DMM Bitcoin exchange stands out as one of the largest. These incidents underscore ongoing challenges in securing digital assets and protecting against sophisticated cyber threats within the cryptocurrency ecosystem.
As cryptocurrencies continue to gain mainstream acceptance and value, stakeholders face the dual challenge of capitalizing on market opportunities while fortifying defenses against increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks. The rise in thefts serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for robust security measures and proactive strategies to safeguard digital assets in the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency finance.
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