HTX attacker returns stolen funds, leaves a message

Following the September 24 attack on HTX (formerly Huobi) hot wallet, the attacker has returned the stolen funds and left a message. According to Lookonchain, the attacker returned 4,999 ETH worth $8.2 million of the stolen funds.

HTX was attacked in late September, resulting in a loss of 5,000 ETH from one of its hot wallets. The exchange reported that it had identified the hacker and requested the return of the stolen funds.

Additionally, a 5% ($400,000 USD) white hat bonus was supposed to be awarded to the attacker within seven days. However, the attacker returned the funds on October 6th, after the stipulated date.

HTX Global Hacker just returned the stolen funds of 4,999 $ETH ($8.2M). @justinsuntronhttps://t.co/fIxrm01a4zhttps://t.co/gHM0Yjqlqs pic.twitter.com/zX1mdDsRpi

— Lookonchain (@lookonchain) October 7, 2023

HTX founder, Justin Sun, at the time of the attack, stated that HTX “fully” covered the losses from the attack. Additionally, the platform continued its operation.

The attacker, upon returning the stolen funds, left a message detailing their address for the said bonus and a security tip. “Your system hot wallet private key leaked, you should change the system hot wallet address and reduce the system hot wallet rate,” the attacker said.

Furthermore, Justin Sun, in response to the attack, also mentioned that an employment opportunity awaits the attacker if the funds are returned. “If the hacker returns the funds, we will also hire them as a security white hat advisor for HTX,” Justin Sun said.

However, both HTX and Justin Sun have yet to disclose whether the exchange has hired the attacker following the return of the stolen funds.

Read also; HTX, Huobi’s new name, raises public criticism