Hackers from Lazarus Group Target Crypto Developers

The notorious North Korean hacking syndicate, Lazarus Group, has intensified its cyber warfare against the cryptocurrency sector, now setting its sights on developers.

According to the latest security investigation, Lazarus Group has infiltrated npm, one of the most widely used software package repositories for JavaScript developers. By leveraging typosquatting tactics (deliberately mimicking legitimate package names), they have uploaded malicious versions of popular npm packages.

These infected packages deploy a stealthy malware called BeaverTail, which can:

🔹 Steal developer login credentials.

🔹 Extract saved browser passwords.

🔹 Access sensitive wallet data, including Solana and Exodus wallets.

Security researchers discovered that all stolen data is transmitted to a hardcoded command-and-control (C2) server, a known Lazarus Group tactic for discreetly exfiltrating sensitive information.

According to Kirill Boychenko, a cybersecurity threat analyst, this method poses a severe risk to developers working on financial and blockchain applications.

Lazarus Group Behind the $1.46 Billion Bybit Hack

Beyond attacking the developer ecosystem, Lazarus Group has been linked to one of the largest crypto exchange hacks in history.

On February 21, 2025, hackers associated with the group successfully infiltrated Bybit, one of the world’s leading crypto exchanges, making off with an estimated $1.46 billion in digital assets.

How Did the Hackers Pull It Off?

🔹 They exploited a security flaw within Bybit’s infrastructure.

🔹 Manipulated Ethereum smart contract logic.

🔹 Redirected funds to their controlled wallets.


Bybit’s CEO, Ben Zhou, confirmed that despite immediate intervention, 20% of the stolen funds had already been laundered through mixing services, making them nearly impossible to trace.

North Korea Funds Its Nuclear Program with Stolen Crypto

A 2024 UN report revealed that North Korean cybercriminals were responsible for over 35% of all global crypto thefts in the past year, accumulating over $1 billion in stolen digital assets.

Lazarus Group is not just a cybercrime syndicate but also a geopolitical threat, as the stolen funds are reportedly being directly funneled into national military and defense programs.

Developers Are Under Attack – How to Stay Safe

With rising cyber threats, security experts are urging developers and crypto users to adopt stricter security measures to protect themselves from Lazarus Group’s attacks. Key recommendations include:

🔹 Verifying the authenticity of software packages before installation.

🔹 Using AI-powered tools like Socket AI Scanner to detect anomalies.

🔹 Enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) for wallets, exchanges, and developer accounts.

🔹 Monitoring network activity and blocking suspicious traffic.


Bybit Launches Bounty for Stolen Funds Recovery

Following the Bybit hack, the exchange has introduced a Recovery Bounty Program, offering up to 10% of recovered funds as a reward for anyone who helps track the stolen assets.

The Cyber War on Crypto Is Just Beginning

As Lazarus Group continues evolving its attack methods, it is clear that the war between hackers and the crypto industry is far from over.

Developers, exchanges, and investors must remain vigilant, strengthening security defenses to prevent becoming the next victims of these sophisticated cyberattacks.

#CryptoSecurity , #HackerAlert , #BybitHack , #CyberSecurity , #CryptoNewss


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