North Korean Tech Workers Infiltrate UK Blockchain Firms

Crypto News Blockchain

North Korean Tech Workers Infiltrate UK Blockchain Firms, Google Says

Written by Aaron S.,

Editor-In-Chief

Last Updated: April 02, 2025

Key Takeaways

North Korean tech workers are using fake identities to work as developers and secretly earn funds for their government;
With tighter US hiring checks, these workers are now targeting European firms, often posing as graduates from local universities;
Companies risk data theft and system issues by unknowingly hiring these workers, who may gain access to sensitive information.

Stop overpaying - start transferring money with Ogvio. Sign up, invite friends & grab Rewards now! 🎁

North Korean Tech Workers Infiltrate UK Blockchain Firms, Google Says

BITDEGREE IN YOUR SOCIAL FEED

North Korean tech workers have been quietly taking jobs at blockchain companies in the UK and Europe.

These workers use false identities to get hired, often posing as freelance developers. Their goal is to earn money for the North Korean government while staying under the radar.

According to an April 2 report from Google’s Threat Intelligence Group (GTIG), the number of North Korean tech workers targeting companies outside the United States is growing. With stricter background checks and better awareness in the US, these individuals are now looking elsewhere, especially in Europe.

What is Balancer in Crypto? Beginner Friendly BAL Explainer

Did you know?

Want to get smarter & wealthier with crypto?

Subscribe - We publish new crypto explainer videos every week!

Jamie Collier, GTIG adviser, explained that North Korean workers are creating fake profiles and resumes to appear legitimate. Some even use degrees from European universities or say they live in countries like Slovakia.

In the UK, several blockchain projects unknowingly hired these workers. They have been found contributing to both basic websites and more advanced systems, including smart contracts built on networks like Solana SOL $126.33 and Anchor ANC $0.00 .

These workers do not just blend in—they can access sensitive data. That puts companies at risk of losing important information or having it stolen. Collier warned that hiring such individuals could lead to problems like data leaks, code theft, or system disruptions.

Meanwhile, crypto experts recently shared warnings about North Korean hackers posing as investors on fake Zoom calls. What did they say? Read the full story.