Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong announced the need for new security measures following attempts by North Korean workers to exploit the company's remote policies. All employees must now undergo in-person orientation.
Threat from North Korean Hackers
Armstrong stated that North Korean computer experts were aiming to gain access to sensitive systems by entering jobs at Coinbase. The FBI also issued a warning, stating that North Korean IT workers were generating revenue for the regime by working with companies in the US.
New Security Measures at Coinbase
Coinbase has implemented a new policy requiring all employees to attend in-person orientation in the US. Moreover, employees accessing sensitive systems must be US citizens and undergo fingerprint verification.
Attempts to Bribe Employees
Armstrong emphasized that they ask candidates to turn on their cameras during the recruitment process, which prevents 'AI-assisted fake interviews.' He also reported attempts at bribery within the company, where some individuals offered hundreds of thousands of dollars to customer service representatives. 'We're warning employees, if they get caught, they're not just going to get kicked out, they're going to jail,' Armstrong said.
Coinbase continues to strengthen its security measures in the face of rising cyber threats, with a new customer service center in Charlotte, North Carolina, supporting these efforts.
