How Hackers Stole $81 Million from Bangladesh Central Bank

The Anatomy of the Heist00:00:00

Hackers utilized sophisticated malware and money laundering tactics to target the international SWIFT money transfer system, attempting to steal nearly $1 billion from the Bangladesh Bank, ultimately successfully moving $81 million.

Execution and Malware Tactics00:01:10

After likely gaining entry via a malicious email, the attackers installed malware designed to manipulate the SWIFT system, delete confirmation receipts, and hide fraudulent transaction records to delay detection.

The Money Trail and Laundering00:02:29

The stolen funds were funneled into accounts in the Philippines. Due to banking holidays and administrative delays, official attempts by Bangladesh Bank to halt the transfers failed, allowing the money to be moved into local casinos.

Aftermath and Global Impact00:03:47

Following the Bangladesh heist, similar cyberattacks on financial institutions were uncovered in Ecuador, Vietnam, and other nations, though the perpetrators of these crimes remain unidentified and at large.