Coinbase has taken significant measures to enhance its internal security following attempts by North Korean hackers to exploit remote job offers for access to sensitive systems.
Hackers Target Remote Jobs for System Access
CEO of Coinbase Brian Armstrong stated that North Korean hackers are trying to take advantage of the company's remote hiring policy to gain employment and access sensitive crypto exchange systems. In response, Coinbase has implemented new requirements: all new hires must attend in-person training in the U.S., and employees handling sensitive data must be U.S. citizens and undergo fingerprinting.
FBI and Cyber Experts Warn of Threats
In a July advisory, the FBI reported that North Korean IT workers use stolen identities and deepfake technology to infiltrate U.S. companies. The agency indicated that these operatives 'target private companies to illicitly generate substantial revenue for the regime.' In June, several hackers infiltrated multiple crypto startups and stole over $900,000 while posing as freelance workers.
Coinbase Fights Bribery and Identity Fraud
Armstrong also shared details about bribery attempts where hackers offered Coinbase staff large sums of money to acquire and share internal data. He noted that the company does not simply terminate compromised employees; legal actions are pursued. To mitigate insider threats, Coinbase has restricted access to sensitive information and established clear legal consequences for attempts at bribery.
The tightening of hiring practices and internal security at Coinbase highlights the serious threats faced by companies in the remote work era, as well as the growing need for data protection and security in the financial sector.
