Security firm CertiK traces Tornado Cash funds linked to a January 10 crypto hack that saw attackers steal digital assets. CertiK’s analysis follows the flow of stolen tokens as they moved through the Tornado Cash mixer and exchanges.
Tracking stolen funds
CertiK said it identified on-chain activity showing stolen assets being sent into Tornado Cash, a cryptocurrency mixer used to obfuscate transaction history. The firm traced patterns and wallet addresses associated with the January 10 exploit, mapping how the tokens moved after being stolen.
Use of Tornado Cash
Tornado Cash allows users to mix funds to break the link between sender and recipient addresses. In this case, attackers sent stolen tokens into the mixer to hide their origin. CertiK’s trace highlighted batches of funds moving in and out of the service, suggesting attempts to launder the stolen assets.
Movement into exchanges
After passing through Tornado Cash, portions of the stolen funds were spotted being transferred to known exchange addresses. Moving assets to exchanges can help hackers convert tokens into other cryptocurrencies or fiat currency. CertiK flagged several exchange deposits that appear connected to the hacked funds.
Security analysis and response
CertiK’s report included technical analysis of the transaction flows and blockchain data used to follow the money trail. The firm said tracking this activity helps exchanges and law enforcement identify and freeze illicit assets. The analysis relied on publicly available blockchain records and pattern recognition.
Industry context
Crypto hacks often involve mixing services and rapid transfers to evade detection. Tracing firms like CertiK use surveillance tools and on-chain data to uncover links between wallet addresses, mixers, and exchange accounts. Their work supports broader efforts to deter theft and help victims recover assets.
CertiK traces Tornado Cash funds tied to a January 10 crypto hack, mapping how stolen tokens passed through a mixer and into exchanges. The tracking aims to aid security teams and authorities in combating crypto theft and identifying where the illicit funds end up.
Source: https://cointelegraph.com/news/certik-traces-tornado-cash-funds-jan-10-crypto-hack
