Cryptocurrency losses surged to $3.4 billion in 2025, driven by targeted attacks on major exchanges and personal wallets. According to recent analytics, the year marked the highest total crypto thefts since 2022, highlighting the continuing evolution of hacker strategies.
Just three incidents, led by the $1.4 billion Bybit hack, accounted for 69% of total losses from January to early December. These large-scale attacks, described as “big game hunting,” were significantly larger than typical crypto thefts, demonstrating a growing focus on high-value targets.
While exchanges faced the largest breaches, personal wallets remained a key target. Wallet thefts represented roughly 20% of total stolen value, lower than prior years but still significant. Analysts noted that while more individual wallets were compromised, the average loss per incident declined due to smaller holdings compared to exchange wallets.
Despite a recovery in DeFi markets with total value locked rising to $119 billion attacks on DeFi protocols remained relatively low. Experts credit enhanced security measures for this trend, signaling that hackers are shifting focus to centralized exchanges and personal wallets.
North Korean hacker groups were responsible for $2.02 billion in stolen cryptocurrency, up from 2024. Analysts highlighted the regime’s more strategic and patient approach, including embedding IT workers in projects to exploit vulnerabilities.
The 2025 crypto landscape shows a clear shift toward high-value targets, with large exchanges and personal wallets at risk. Improved security in DeFi suggests a maturing ecosystem, but the ongoing sophistication of hacker tactics underscores the need for continued vigilance.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.