The 2016 Bitfinex Hack: A Comprehensive Analysis
The 2016 Bitfinex hack represents one of the most significant security breaches in cryptocurrency history, resulting in the theft of approximately 120,000 bitcoins valued at roughly $72 million at the time. This incident has become a landmark case study in cryptocurrency security, digital forensics, and the legal pursuit of cybercriminals. The hack’s aftermath spanned years, culminating in arrests, guilty pleas, and the largest cryptocurrency seizure in history. What follows is a detailed analysis of this watershed event in cryptocurrency security history, examining its timeline, technical aspects, attribution, and long-term implications.