Just-in: Poly Network Awards $500,000 Bug Bounty to $610 Million Hacker

Prashant Jha
August 13, 2021
Why Trust CoinGape
CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights to our readers. Our journal analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.

Poly Network, a cross-chain defi protocol that suffered the largest defi hack amounting to $610 million has decided to award the hacker $500,000 as a ‘Bug Bounty,’ as per a report in Reuters. The hacker managed to exploit a cross-chain verification signature to drain funds into three accounts on three different blockchains. The Defi protocol alerted exchanges and miners about the hack and requested them to freeze transactions originating from the hacked address.

Poly Network requested the hacker to return the funds, which were obliged and the attacker started returning the funds starting a couple of days back. The defi protocol confirmed earlier today that the majority of the funds have been returned. It dubbed the hacker “white hat” in its address suggesting they are in continuous touch as the funds are being processed.

The heist is being deemed as the largest in crypto history while highlighting the security vulnerabilities in the defi ecosystem. The hacker behind the network tried laundering the stolen amount but due to the risks involved in laundering such high amounts, he decided against it. The EtherScan copy of the transactions made by the attacker even claimed the exploit would have been in billions had he decided to rug other “Shitcoins” as well.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Three More Defi Networks Attacked Since Ploy Network Hack

The Poly Network attack was followed by three other network hacks including DAO Maker and Necko network resulting in millions worth of losses. While DAO Maker hacker stole money from USDC accounts, Neko network hacker exploited smart contract vulnerability.

The high popularity of the defi network makes it more prone to hack attacks as many new projects spring up in the defi market, gaining instant liquidity within weeks and then get rugpulled or exploited. Defi market’s security vulnerability could pose a roadblock in its rapid growth.

Advertisement
coingape google news coingape google news
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.

Why Trust CoinGape

CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights Read more…to our readers. Our journal analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.

About Author
About Author
An engineering graduate, Prashant focuses on UK and Indian markets. As a crypto-journalist, his interests lie in blockchain technology adoption across emerging economies.
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.