Israeli hackers steal $ 90 million in cryptocurrency from Iran’s largest crypto exchange

The largest Iranian cryptocurrency exchange Nobitex has suffered a large-scale hack — the hacker group Gonjeshke Darande («Predatory Sparrow»), which is linked to Israel, has reported the theft of almost $ 90 million in various cryptocurrencies. The attack took place on Wednesday, and the next day, the attackers posted a message on social media accusing Nobitex of financing terrorism and violating sanctions. The hackers also threatened to publish the exchange’s source code and internal information in the near future, and the assets left on the platform are at risk.

According to Chainalysis, the attackers withdrew more than $ 90 million in Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin, and other cryptocurrencies. Chainalysis also notes that Nobitex has been used to conduct transactions related to cybercrime and groups such as Hamas and the Houthis.

The attack took place against the backdrop of an escalation between Iran and Israel that has been going on for several weeks now, with armed and cyber attacks on both sides. The day before, Gonjeshke Darande claimed responsibility for the destruction of data in the Iranian state-owned Sepah Bank.

Iranian state media have already called on citizens not to use WhatsApp and Telegram messengers, calling them tools of Israeli surveillance. At the same time, the attacks on Nobitex and Iran’s energy infrastructure are increasing tensions in the region and affecting global energy markets.

Although Israel has not officially recognized ties with the Predatory Sparrow group, a number of Israeli media outlets have repeatedly mentioned the group’s alleged involvement with Israeli intelligence services.