On June 18, 2025, Iran's largest cryptocurrency exchange Nobitex suffered an unprecedented attack, resulting in the destruction of assets worth between $90 and $100 million.
Core Event: Digital Destruction Operation
The attack was carried out by the pro-Israeli group 'Predatory Sparrow', which transferred significant amounts of cryptocurrency to inaccessible vanity addresses with political slogans. Nobitex suspended all services and promised to compensate user losses, but recovery took several days due to local internet disruptions.
Attack Methods: Intersection of Vulnerabilities and Political Motives
Hackers exploited phishing to gain administrative access to the Nobitex system. They then penetrated the hot wallet, where instant transactions are processed, and moved assets into addresses that cannot be recovered. This action aimed to destroy channels used to circumvent sanctions and damage Nobitex's reputation.
New Paradigms in Cyber Warfare: From Paralyzing Facilities to Burning Assets
Alongside other attacks on Iranian infrastructure, this event highlights cryptocurrencies as a new battleground in geopolitical conflicts. Market participants note the vulnerability of exchanges and the urgent need for new security standards.
The Nobitex incident symbolizes a new era where digital assets are used as tools of cyber warfare. This raises critical questions about user protection and the future of decentralized finance.
