North Korean state-sponsored hacking groups were responsible for approximately two-thirds of all cryptocurrency stolen globally during the first half of 2026, according to a new report.
The findings highlight the persistent threat posed by regime-linked cybercriminal operations, which continue to target digital asset platforms to fund the country’s nuclear and missile programs.
The total value of stolen assets reached $643 million in the first six months of the year, maintaining North Korea’s position as the world’s largest source of digital asset theft.
The total value of stolen assets reached $643 million in the first six months of the year, maintaining North Korea’s position as the world’s largest source of digital asset theft.
This figure underscores the scale of the illicit finance network operating out of Pyongyang, which has increasingly relied on sophisticated cyber heists to bypass international sanctions.
The report comes amid growing calls for stricter regulatory oversight in the cryptocurrency sector.
In France, the industry has urged authorities to implement more robust security measures following Interior Minister Laurent Nunez’s recent plan to protect digital asset holders from ransom kidnappings.