Elliptic Links North Korean Hackers to $286M Drift Protocol Exploit

Published at 2026-04-02 15:00:10

Elliptic reported that funds tied to the recent $286 million exploit of the Drift Protocol follow cross-chain laundering patterns and Solana-specific tracing obstacles that resemble tactics used in earlier operations connected to the North Korean state. The firm highlighted repeated behaviors across bridges and on-chain flows that, in their analysis, align with known DPRK-linked money laundering playbooks.

The finding raises fresh questions for exchanges, DeFi platforms and investigators about sanctions enforcement and recovery prospects for stolen assets. For Drift users and counterparties, the report underscores ongoing forensic challenges on Solana and the broader need for tighter cross-chain monitoring and coordination with regulators to limit safe havens for illicit proceeds.

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More than $211 million worth of SOL stakes became liquid within minutes on April 2, 2026, as Solana traded weak amid market volatility. Large unlocks have traders on edge for potential selling pressure and faster on-chain flows to exchanges.

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SolanaHackLedgerDeFiSecurity

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Published at 2026-04-02 08:30:11

ZachXBT Says Circle Let Millions in Stolen USDC Move After Drift Hack

On-chain investigator ZachXBT alleged Circle failed to stop millions in stolen USDC flowing through its native cross-chain bridge after the $285 million Drift Protocol exploit. The claim intensifies scrutiny on Circle's monitoring and intervention role for USDC.

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Published at 2026-04-02 06:00:08

Solana DeFi Platform Drift Suspends Deposits Amid Suspicious Activity Probe

Drift, a Solana-based DeFi derivatives platform, halted deposits on Apr 1, 2026 and is investigating suspicious activity, urging users to stop adding funds. The platform says it is probing the incident and advising caution while the review continues.