Crypto Ransom Hits $1B in 2023, Bitcoin Up 60%

Key Points

• Crypto ransom payments nearly doubled to a record $1 billion in 2023.
• Losses from other crypto crimes, such as scamming and hacking, decreased.
• Bitcoin’s value surged by 60% to $43,134, buoyed by ETF enthusiasm and expected rate cuts.
• “Big game hunting” strategy targeted $1 million or more ransoms.
• Notable scams and attacks by groups like “cl0p” and “Black Basta” led to massive financial losses.
• Cryptocurrency theft emerges as a key funding source for North Korea’s illicit activities.

In 2023, cryptocurrency-related ransom payments surged to an unprecedented $1 billion, nearly doubling from the previous year’s total of $567 million. This increase in ransom demands has targeted essential institutions such as hospitals, schools, and government offices, highlighting the growing threat to public services and safety.

Crypto Crimes Diverge, Losses Decline

Ransom payments reached record levels. However, 2023 saw a decrease in losses from other types of crypto-related crimes, such as scamming and hacking. This shift suggests a changing landscape in the crypto crime scene, with ransomware becoming the most prevalent and profitable avenue for criminals.

Bitcoin Climbs 60%, Reaches $43,134

Despite the challenges posed by cryptocurrency scams and attacks, Bitcoin’s value has surged by 60% since the end of September 2023, reaching $43,134. This increase was driven by excitement over a new U.S. Bitcoin ETF and anticipation of central bank interest rate cuts, showcasing the cryptocurrency market’s volatile yet opportunistic nature.

Cybercriminals Target $1M+ in Ransoms

2023 also saw the emergence of a ransom strategy known as “big game hunting,” targeting ransoms of $1 million or more. This method represents a strategic pivot by cybercriminals towards maximizing profits by focusing on high-value targets, thus exacerbating the financial and operational impacts on victims.

Notable Groups Secure $100M+ in Scams

The “cl0p” hackers exploited vulnerabilities in MOVEit software, securing nearly $100 million in ransom from significant cybercriminal activities. The “Black Basta” cybercrime group also gained attention by extorting at least $107 million in Bitcoin. The group often launders the proceeds through the sanctioned Russian cryptocurrency exchange Garantex. These events highlight the sophisticated and coordinated nature of cyberattacks in the digital era.

Crypto Fuels North Korea’s Illicit Funds

Cryptocurrency theft, including cyberheists and ransomware attacks, has become a crucial funding source for North Korea’s illicit activities. This fact emphasizes the wider implications of crypto crimes, which extend beyond financial losses to fuel geopolitical tensions and criminal enterprises.

As the cryptocurrency landscape continues to evolve, the rise in related crimes presents significant challenges to security, regulatory enforcement, and overall trust in the crypto market. The underreported nature of crypto crime data highlights the need for improved monitoring and intervention strategies.