Cybercrime is becoming a bigger weapon in global conflicts. Governments and criminal groups are using digital attacks to steal money, disrupt systems, and gain power.
North Korea is one of the most aggressive players in this field. The country has been behind some of the biggest hacking incidents in history.
Now, it has pulled off its largest cryptocurrency heist yet, according to Ziare.
Earlier this month, North Korean hackers stole an estimated $1.4 billion worth of Ethereum.
This massive cyberattack is still unfolding as the stolen funds are being laundered. Experts warn that this money will likely be used to fund North Korea's military and foreign operations.
The country is heavily sanctioned, so cybercrime has become one of its main ways of securing funds.
Sources close to the North Korean regime say a large portion of the stolen money will go toward launching a new hacking center called Research Center 227.
This organization presents itself as a technology institute, but its true purpose is far more alarming.
It will focus on developing advanced cyber warfare tools to help North Korea infiltrate networks in Western countries.
The center will also sell hacking expertise and software to allies such as China and Russia.
The use of artificial intelligence will be a key part of the center’s strategy. AI will help hackers find weak spots in global security systems and automate cyberattacks.
The center will also manage groups of hackers operating in foreign countries. These teams will work undercover, making it even harder to track their activities.
This latest cryptocurrency theft is more than just a financial crime. It is a strategic move that will boost North Korea's ability to carry out digital attacks.
With the country cut off from much of the global economy, stealing digital assets has become essential for funding its operations.
Experts warn that North Korea's growing cyber capabilities could pose a serious threat to governments, businesses, and financial systems worldwide.
The establishment of Research Center 227 marks the beginning of a new and more aggressive phase in digital warfare.
The consequences could be severe, with potential attacks targeting critical infrastructure, banks, and national security networks.
