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Hot Wallet Breach

Definition

A hot wallet breach is a security incident where a cryptocurrency wallet connected to the internet is compromised, leading to the unauthorized removal of digital assets. Hot wallets are typically used for frequent transactions due to their accessibility, but this online connectivity also makes them more susceptible to cyberattacks. Attackers may exploit software vulnerabilities, phishing schemes, or weak security protocols to gain access to private keys or directly transfer funds. Such breaches often result in significant financial losses for exchanges, platforms, or individual users.