[Blockchain Security News] On August 25, 2025, the cryptocurrency industry witnessed a jaw-dropping 'hacker transformation.' A hacker, after successfully stealing $8 million from a DeFi project, not only proactively contacted the project party to return part of the funds but also successfully negotiated to obtain the position of 'Security Advisor.' This maneuver quickly sparked heated discussions in the industry.

▍After stealing the coins, the hacker actively proposed a 'negotiation' with astonishing conditions.

It is reported that the hacker exploited a vulnerability in the smart contract of a certain DeFi protocol, successfully stealing $8 million worth of crypto assets. However, 48 hours after obtaining the funds, the hacker did not vanish as per the usual protocol but instead proactively contacted the project team through encrypted messaging tools, proposing a 'cooperation proposal':

"I can return $4 million, on the condition that you formally hire me as a security advisor, with a monthly salary paid in BTC."

Even more surprisingly, after urgent discussions, the project party actually accepted this proposal.

▍The project party officially announces 'reconciliation,' stating it reflects the spirit of decentralization.

The DeFi project subsequently released an official announcement stating that it has hired this hacker as the 'Chief Security Advisor', stating in the announcement:

"We believe this embodies the spirit of decentralization. Instead of resorting to legal means, we should integrate technical talents into ecosystem development. The addition of this white hat hacker (formerly a black hat) will greatly enhance our security level."

The announcement also revealed that the returned $4 million will be used to compensate affected users, while the remaining $4 million will serve as 'special funding for security upgrades.'

▍Industry Outrage: New Path for Hacker 'Career Transition'?

This incident has sparked intense discussion in the crypto community:

- Security Expert: "This sets a dangerous precedent and may encourage more hackers to follow suit."

- Investor: "At least I got back half of my funds, better than losing everything."

- Developer: "I suggest creating a 'hacker recruitment zone' to directly save on auditing fees."

On-chain data shows that the hacker (now security advisor) indeed returned $4 million. Interestingly, their ETH balance also included the first month's 'salary' - 2 BTC.

▍Netizens' Highlights of Comments.

- "These days, robbing DeFi is more profitable than robbing a bank and you can even get an offer."

- "Suggest adding 'successfully implemented $8 million security tests' to the resume."

- "Should we launch an 'NFT course from Black Hat to White Hat' next?"

- "Hacker: I'm playing a big game, first I'll hack you, then teach you, and finally acquire you."

▍Legal Gray Areas Raise Concerns.

Legal experts point out that this 'private settlement' method poses significant risks:

1. May encourage hacker criminal behavior.

2. Avoids formal judicial processes.

3. Provides new channels for money laundering.

As of now, no regulatory agency has commented on the matter.

[Reporter Observation]

This incident once again highlights the absurdity and innovation coexisting in the crypto world. While traditional finance is still entangled in KYC, DeFi has already played out a new model of 'turning black to white.' It remains to be seen whether this 'reconciliation' strategy will become an industry example or ultimately lead to greater consequences.

(This article reminds: If you encounter a hacking attack, please report it to the police immediately and do not imitate the operations in the text.)#defi