UN sanctions monitors are investigating dozens of suspected cyberattacks by North Korea that raised $3 billion aimed at bolstering the country's nuclear weapons programs.
“The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) has continued to defy Security Council sanctions,” a group of independent sanctions monitors told a Security Council committee.
The committee is investigating 58 suspected cyberattacks from North Korea targeting cryptocurrency-between 2017 and 2023, which netted hackers an estimated $3 billion.
Investigations show that North Korean hackers affiliated with Pyongyang's main foreign intelligence service have reportedly continued with a large number of cyberattacks.
See also: North Korea: Hackers have stolen crypto to fund nuclear weapons programs
They appear to be targeting primarily defense companies and supply chains, while sharing infrastructure and tools.
North Korea “further developed nuclear weapons and produced nuclear materials, although its last known nuclear test took place in 2017,” the observers wrote, who also said Pyongyang continued ballistic missile, put a satellite into orbit and added a “tactical nuclear attack submarine” to its arsenal.
The 15-member Security Council has banned North Korea from conducting nuclear tests and ballistic missile launches. It has been subject to UN sanctions since 2006, which the council has repeatedly strengthened to try to cut off funding for the development of weapons of mass destruction (WMD).
See also: Hackers breach US nuclear energy research lab
For years, North Korea has been said to be using the profits from cyberattacks for its nuclear development in various ways. Initially, these profits are used to purchase nuclear materials. These materials are essential for the construction of nuclear weapons and the further development of its nuclear program.
Then, the profits from cyberattacks can be used to pay specialized scientists and technicians working on nuclear programs. The profits are also invested in developing infrastructure necessary for nuclear development. This includes the construction of factories, research facilities, and other facilities necessary for the production of nuclear weapons.
See also: Nuclear technology can solve the problem of climate change
Finally, the profits are used to purchase advanced technology that can aid in nuclear development. This can include nuclear reactors and other related systems.
Source: www.theguardian.com
🔒 Protect your privacy with Proton VPN
Swiss VPN from the creators of Proton Mail — strict no-logs policy, strong encryption, and built-in NetShield that blocks ads, trackers, & malware.
- ✔ No-logs, based in Switzerland (except 14-Eyes)
- ✔ NetShield: blocks ads, trackers & malicious domains
- ✔ Covers all devices — free version available
The link is an affiliate link — SecNews may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. It does not affect the independence of our article writing.
