OKX relaunches DEX aggregator after allegations of money laundering for DPRK hackers

Developers have implemented an improved anti-fraud protection system in the service

05.05.2025 - 15:15

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3 min

What’s new? OKX has resumed the operation of its decentralized exchange (DEX) aggregator with an improved security system. The service was suspended in March since it was used by DPRK-based hacker group Lazarus to launder assets stolen from crypto exchange Bybit.

Source: X.com

What else is known? OKX founder and CEO Star Xu told on X that aggregator DEX is relaunching with several new features, including a “real-time abuse detection and blocking system.”

The DEX aggregator is a service that pulls data from multiple decentralized exchanges and market makers and then presents it to users to help them trade. Star Xu calls OKX Web3 a browser and search engine for the blockchain.

The OKX team clarified that the latest upgrade includes other new security measures to detect suspicious or fraudulent on-chain activity from hackers and other malicious actors:

“Our dynamic database of suspect addresses blocks hackers and bad actors real-time, while proactive alerts warn you about risky transactions.”

The service has partnered with IS companies CertiK, Hacken, and SlowMist, and the infrastructure is being tested as part of an internal bug bounty program.

Another feature added to the on-chain analysis tool categorizes wallet holders, identifying them as possible large holders or snipers. Sniping involves instantly buying new assets on the DEX using automated solutions and then selling them on a sharp rise.

Bloomberg said on March 11 that EU regulators have launched an investigation into aggregator OKX for its involvement in laundering funds from the $1,4 billion Bybit hack in February.

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eXch openly clashed with Bybit even before the latter was hacked for $1,5 billion

Other crypto services have also been implicated in the hack. Crypto exchange eXch announced it was ceasing operations on May 1 following reports that it was used to launder Bybit assets.

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