BingX, a Singapore-based cryptocurrency exchange, verified a security breach on Friday after observing numerous “suspicious” outflows from one of its hot wallets online. Subsequently, the exchange pledged to reimburse users for their losses.
The team reported that uncommon access to the hot wallet had been detected through an X post, and they suspected that it was a hacker attack. “We promptly implemented an emergency response, which involved suspending withdrawals and transferring assets,” it stated.
BingX also clarified that the losses they experienced were minor and were currently addressing the situation. In addition, they guaranteed that most assets are secure in cold wallets, while only a tiny percentage were affected in the hot wallet.
PeckShield Confirms $43M BingX Hack; Exchange Cancels Withdrawals for 24-Hour Security Review
Nevertheless, PeckShield, a blockchain security firm, reported that the security compromise resulted in a $43 million loss, primarily affecting Ethereum and BNB Chain. Initially, the organization estimated the sum would be approximately $26 million.
According to PeckShield, the intruder quickly exchanged most of the stolen assets for about 4,526 $ETH and 7,864.7 $BNB. The total amount of misappropriated funds was 5.3K ETH, 4.1K BNB, and 1.65M MATIC as of the most recent update.
According to Vivien Lin, the chief product officer of BingX, the exchange has temporarily suspended withdrawals to improve security. At this time, the crew is conducting an emergency inspection. She further stated that withdrawals would be reinstated no later than 24 hours.
She stated, “We are developing a compensation plan, which will be disclosed shortly.”
Crypto Exchanges Face Security Crisis
Two notable incidents highlighting these platforms’ flaws indicate that the crypto exchange industry has recently faced significant security challenges.
Indodax, a cryptocurrency exchange, was the victim of a cyberattack last week, during which hackers stole approximately $22 million in digital assets.
In the interim, WazirX, a prominent exchange in India, experienced a substantial loss due to a series of questionable transactions orchestrated by assailants, resulting in the theft of $234 million from the platform.