A confidential United Nations report has exposed a massive cryptocurrency transfer of $147.5 million by North Korea's notorious Lazarus Group hackers. The stolen funds, taken from a crypto exchange in March 2023, were funneled back to North Korea through the sanctioned crypto mixer Tornado Cash.

The report reveals that North Korea has been actively engaging in cyber warfare, with 97 suspected cyberattacks on cryptocurrency firms between 2017 and 2024, valued at approximately $3.6 billion. The country's IT workers abroad also generate significant income for the nation.

The Lazarus Group and other North Korean hackers have executed some of the most lucrative hacks in the crypto and DeFi sectors, with Tornado Cash being their preferred tool for laundering stolen funds. The US sanctioned Tornado Cash in 2022, accusing it of aiding North Korea.

According to the report, North Korea acquired 50% of its foreign exchange earnings from cyberattacks, with a focus on cryptocurrency platforms in 2023. While the total amount stolen was lower compared to 2022, the number of hacks reached a record high of 20, targeting DeFi, centralized services, exchanges, and wallet providers.

The report highlights the need for increased vigilance and cooperation to combat North Korea's cybercrime activities and prevent further illicit cryptocurrency transfers..