DOJ Seizes $7.7M in Crypto Tied to North Korea Plot

The U.S. Department of Justice has seized approximately $7.7 million in cryptocurrency tied to an alleged scheme involving North Korean information technology workers, authorities said. The funds were frozen and confiscated after North Korean nationals reportedly attempted to launder the assets, which were linked to a long-running conspiracy.

Officials stated the funds were illicitly obtained as part of a broader effort by individuals affiliated with North Korea to exploit global IT employment opportunities under false identities. The scheme allegedly allowed the operatives to funnel earnings back to the regime, violating international sanctions.

The seizure marks another step in U.S. efforts to disrupt North Korea’s access to foreign currency through cyber-enabled financial crime. Authorities emphasized that the action highlights the need for companies and financial institutions to remain vigilant against deceptive practices used by sanctioned entities.

The Justice Department did not disclose details on how the funds were traced or which platforms were used in the laundering attempt.