Coinbase Reacts to $900,000 Theft with Stricter Security

* Coinbase overhauls security after North Korean hackers exploit remote work policy. * New measures include mandatory in-person training, U.S. citizenship, and fingerprinting for sensitive roles. On August 22, 2025, Cointelegraph reported that North Korean hackers targeted Coinbase’s remote work policy by seeking remote employment with the cryptocurrency exchange to access its secure systems. In response, CEO Brian Armstrong announced stricter security protocols. To counter the growing threat, Armstrong outlined key changes to bolster internal defenses. The new measures include mandatory in-person training for all U.S.-based employees and stricter hiring requirements for positions with access to sensitive systems, which will now require U.S. citizenship and fingerprinting. This move reflects North Korea's increasing cyber activity targeting the cryptocurrency sector. Armstrong highlighted the nation’s interest in crypto-related theft and acknowledged reports that state-sponsored operations pressure individuals into aiding their hacking efforts. Coinbase’s proactive approach comes as its security practices face heightened scrutiny, particularly after a recent data breach that impacted less than 1% of its monthly transacting users. The breach exposed sensitive information, such as user home addresses and account balances, raising concerns about operational risks and potential physical threats. In addition, the exchange recorded high levels of brand impersonation in phishing attacks throughout 2024.