CZ Warns of Advanced North Korean Hackers Posing as Job Candidates to Infiltrate Crypto Companies
Hello hive Users,
I hope you are all doing well. Today I came across an interesting (and a bit surprising) news that I wanted to share with you. As you all know, I always try to keep you updated with fresh and excitin
Binance founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ) has raised fresh alarms over increasingly sophisticated attempts by North Korean hackers to infiltrate crypto companies. The warning comes after reports showed these groups stole more than $1.3 billion in 2024 and another $2.2 billion in just the first half of 2025.
How Hackers Are Getting In
CZ warns that these attackers have moved well beyond basic phishing. Now they apply for jobs as developers or security specialists, send convincing resumes, and stage realistic technical interviews. During those fake interviews they may ask candidates to download “test” tools or click links that quietly install malware. Some groups even bribe vendors to get insider access. Investigations have found operatives creating U.S. shell companies, complete with fake paperwork and polished LinkedIn profiles, just to make their schemes look legitimate and lower victims’ guard.
Real-World Damage
Leaked evidence also shows North Korean IT operatives carefully documenting expenses for buying stolen Social Security numbers, setting up fake LinkedIn profiles, and maintaining VPN services to keep their false identities intact.
Global Response
Law enforcement agencies are starting to push back. The FBI recently seized domains tied to companies like Blocknovas LLC, which was found to be nothing more than a shell entity registered to an empty lot in South Carolina. Meanwhile, the U.S. Justice Department has linked operations back to individuals associated with North Korea’s Ministry of Defense.
On the international stage, South Korea and the European Union have also stepped up cybersecurity coordination, focusing specifically on blocking North Korean campaigns.
With North Korea doubling down on these tactics, CZ warned that even a single careless click could compromise millions of dollars in assets.