Over $2.47 billion in crypto stolen via hacks in 2025 as attacks shift to human error

Over $2.47 billion in cryptocurrency assets were stolen through hacks in the first half of 2025, according to data from blockchain security firm CertiK [1]. This figure represents a dramatic increase compared to 2024, with losses already surpassing the total for the previous year [4]. A total of 344 distinct security incidents were reported in just six months, highlighting the growing frequency and complexity of attacks in the crypto space [2]. The largest single incident involved the exchange Bybit, which suffered a $1.5 billion breach, marking it as the largest theft in crypto history [3].

The shift in hacking tactics has moved beyond exploiting technical vulnerabilities to targeting human error [3]. Phishing attacks and social engineering have become more prevalent, allowing attackers to bypass even the most advanced security systems. CertiK emphasized that the evolving threat landscape underscores the need for improved user education and stronger platform-level protections [1]. The firm’s founder described the ongoing battle against hackers as an “endless war,” reinforcing the idea that cyber threats will continue to evolve and require constant adaptation in defense strategies [4].

The impact of these attacks has been felt across the market. Total Value Locked (TVL) in Ethereum-based DeFi projects has seen sharp declines, with liquidity shifting out of exchanges and protocols in response to security concerns [3]. The financial implications are also significant, with only $187 million recovered from stolen assets, demonstrating the challenges of tracing and retrieving funds in decentralized ecosystems [3]. As the industry moves forward, experts stress the need for more rigorous regulatory oversight and technological innovation to reduce vulnerabilities and restore investor confidence [4].

The scale of these breaches has sparked renewed calls for systemic changes in how crypto platforms handle security. Improved encryption methods, wallet security, and real-time threat monitoring are now seen as essential components of a robust defense strategy. While institutional measures are improving, the human element remains a critical point of failure, making user education a vital part of the solution [1]. As the year progresses, the challenge for the crypto industry will be to contain further losses while implementing more resilient infrastructure to protect against increasingly sophisticated threats.

Source:

[1] AInvest - [https://www.ainvest.com/news/hackers-shift-human-errors-crypto-losses-reach-2-47-billion-2025-2508/](https://www.ainvest.com/news/hackers-shift-human-errors-crypto-losses-reach-2-47-billion-2025-2508/)

[2] The Daily Hodl - [https://dailyhodl.com/2025/08/26/2472777618-in-crypto-stolen-via-hacks-in-2025-already-warns-blockchain-security-firm-certik/](https://dailyhodl.com/2025/08/26/2472777618-in-crypto-stolen-via-hacks-in-2025-already-warns-blockchain-security-firm-certik/)

[3] Coindoo - [https://coindoo.com/hackers-exploit-cryptos-weakest-link-and-its-not-the-code/](https://coindoo.com/hackers-exploit-cryptos-weakest-link-and-its-not-the-code/)

[4] ForkLog - [https://forklog.com/en/certik-founder-describes-battle-with-hackers-as-endless/](https://forklog.com/en/certik-founder-describes-battle-with-hackers-as-endless/)