North Korea’s $2 Billion Crypto Heist: From Hackers to Fake IT Workers – A Comedy of Cyber Crimes
North Korea’s cryptocurrency heists have hit a record $2 billion in 2025. The regime’s hackers are now cashing in on fake IT workers, with Amazon detecting over 1,800 North Korean job applicants using crafty identity fraud. Who knew the regime had such a knack for digital cloak and dagger?

Hot Take:
Looks like North Korea’s hackers have been busy little bees, buzzing around the crypto garden and collecting billions of dollars to sweeten their honey pot. And now they’re branching out, trying to blend in as IT workers and recruiters. It’s like they’ve gone from cyber pirates to digital chameleons, and apparently, Amazon’s been their favorite watering hole. Keep your eyes peeled, folks, because these sneaky operators are making James Bond look like an amateur!
Key Points:
- North Korean hackers have stolen over $2 billion in cryptocurrency in 2025, marking a new record.
- Amazon has detected 1,800 North Korean IT workers attempting to secure remote roles using identity fraud.
- North Korean threat actors are focusing more on laundering stolen crypto rather than increasing attack frequency.
- Hackers are posing as recruiters and potential investors to gather valuable information.
- Amazon’s security team is using AI and other techniques to detect and block fake applications from North Korean operatives.
