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The Actual News

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North Korean hackers steal Balkan identities to freelance in Europe and US

North Korean hackers steal Balkan identities to freelance in Europe and US

Summary

North Korean hackers have been stealing personal information from people in Serbia and Bosnia to create fake identities. They use these fake European identities to get freelance jobs with companies in the U.S. and Europe, and the money they make goes to fund North Korean state projects like weapons development.

Key Facts

  • North Korean hackers target people in Balkan countries, mainly Serbia and Bosnia.
  • They steal names, photos, and email addresses to build fake identities.
  • These fake profiles are used to find freelance work in the U.S. and Europe.
  • The money earned supports North Korea’s weapons programs and other government projects.
  • North Korea’s online IT workers earned an estimated $350 to $800 million in 2024.
  • Hackers use Chinese banks and cryptocurrencies to move money, making it hard to track.
  • This activity helps North Korea generate revenue despite international sanctions.
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