Crypto Security 101: How Hacks Happen & How to Stay Protected
As the crypto industry continues to grow, so does its focus on security. With billions of dollars being traded and stored on both centralised finance (CeFi) exchanges and decentralised finance (DeFi) platforms, ensuring asset protection has become a top priority. While the space has seen its share of challenges, the good news is that crypto platforms are constantly evolving, adopting advanced security measures to safeguard users and build trust. From multi-layered authentication in CeFi to smart contract audits in DeFi, the industry is actively working to stay ahead of potential threats. In this blog, well explore how security in crypto has strengthened over time, the proactive steps platforms take to protect funds, and how users can play a role in maintaining a secure trading environment.
Common Attack Vectors in CeFi and DeFi
CeFi Hacks
- Phishing Attacks Fraudulent emails or websites tricking users into revealing login credentials
- Insider Threats Employees abusing access for financial misconduct or compromising security through negligence, leading to financial losses.
- Hot Wallet Breaches Attackers exploiting vulnerabilities in Internet-connected wallets.
- API Exploits Unauthorised API access leading to unauthorised trades or fund withdrawals.
DeFi Hacks
- Smart Contract Vulnerabilities Bugs in code allowing exploits, such as reentrancy attacks.
- Oracle Manipulation Attackers influence price feeds to execute fraudulent trades.
- Flash Loan Exploits Unsecured borrowing used to manipulate markets within a single transaction.
- Rug Pulls & Exit Scams Developers draining liquidity pools or abandoning projects after fundraising.
High-Profile Crypto Hacks: Case Studies
| Hack | Platform Type | Attack Method | Losses | Key Takeaway |
| Mt. Gox (2014) | CeFi | Exchange wallet breach | $460M+ | Importance of cold storage |
| Poly Network (2021) | DeFi | Smart contract exploit | $600 M+ (returned) | Need for secure contract auditing |
| FTX (2022) | CeFi | Mismanagement & fraud | $8B+ | Transparency in fraud handling |
| Euler Finance (2023) | DeFi | Flash loan attack | $200M+ | Stronger risk mitigation needed |
| WazirX (2024) | CeFi | Security breach | $230M+ | Strengthening exchange security |
| Bybit (2025) | CeFi | Unauthorised access exploit | $1.5B+ | Enhancing internal security protocols |
Security Measures
Undertaken by CeFi Platforms
| Security Measure | Purpose |
| Multi-Signature Wallets and Cold Storage | Protect funds by storing them offline |
| KYC & AML Compliance | Prevent fraud and unauthorised access |
| Insurance Frauds & Reserves | Cover potential losses from security incidents |
| Regular Security Audits | Identify and fix vulnerabilities proactively |
| 2FA & Withdrawal Whitelisting | Add extra layers of user account protection |
| AI-Based Transaction Simulation & Address Verification (ZebPay) | Ensure secure transactions by verifying addresses before cold wallet transactions |
| Automated Address Risk Assessment for Withdrawals (ZebPay) | Analyse withdrawal addresses in real-time to detect risks before whitelisting |
Undertaken by DeFi Platforms
| Security Measure | Purpose |
| Smart Contract Audits | Ensure code security before deployment |
| Bug Bounty Programs | Encourage ethical hackers to find vulnerabilities |
| Decentralised Governance | Allow community-driven security improvements |
| Time Locks & Rate Limits | Prevent sudden unauthorised fund transfers |
| Oracle Enhancements | Reduce the risks of price manipulation |
Future of Crypto Security: Innovations and Challenges
- AI-Powered Fraud Detection Machine learning to detect suspicious transactions.
- Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZKPs) Enhance privacy without compromising security.
- Regulatory Frameworks Stricter laws to ensure industry-wide security standards.
- Decentralised Insurance Protection for users against potential DeFi exploits.
Conclusion
In the ever-evolving crypto landscape, security is paramount, and at ZebPay, it is not just a priorityits a commitment. With multi-signature wallets, cold storage, KYC & AML compliance, and regular security audits deeply embedded into our infrastructure, we ensure top-tier asset protection for our users. Additionally, advanced measures such as AI-based transaction simulation, automated address risk assessment, and withdrawal whitelisting are actively implemented to fortify security and prevent fraudulent activity. ZebPay remains at the forefront, continuously enhancing its security framework. By choosing a platform with proven, rigorously executed safeguards, users can trade and invest in crypto with confidence.
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