Cloudflare's CEO says crypto exchanges are a popular target for cybercriminals

Cloudflare-CEO-says-crypto-exchanges-are -popular-target-for-cybercriminals

September 15, 2021: -On Monday, Cryptocurrency exchanges have become a popular target for cybercriminals, Cloudflare CEO Matthew Prince told CNBC.

“The adage is, why do bank robbers rob banks? It’s due to the money is,” Prince said. “One of the biggest places that cyber attackers are going after right now is the various cryptocurrency exchanges and other cryptocurrency parts of the universe,” Prince added.

Cryptocurrencies attracted attention in connection to cybercrimes earlier this year after high-profile ransomware attacks, most notably the Colonial Pipeline incident in May that disrupted fuel supply in parts of the East Coast.

Colonial Pipeline ended up paying $5 in ransom one day after its IT network was hacked. However, U.S. law enforcement officials could recover nearly half of the bitcoin that the criminal cybergroup received.

The events ignited debate around the role that blockchain-based digital currencies play in the increase of ransomware attacks. Some argue that cryptocurrencies enable ransomware incidents, while others say that transactions recorded on public ledgers can help solve cybercrimes.

Cloudflare, which went public two years ago, offers companies web network infrastructure, allowing them to put their content online. Cloudflare is providing security services to prevent what is known as distributed denial of service attacks.

Prince said some of its clients are cryptocurrency exchanges, giving the company a “front-row seat” to the evolving cyber threats they face. “We’re watching more innovation from attackers in that space, but we are staying ahead of it,” he adds.

Prince commented Monday, who asked whether the executive would feel safe investing through a crypto exchange that is a Cloudflare customer.

“We’re proud of the fact that we’ve kept the cryptocurrency customers that are ours secure and safe and is helping the augment the additional protections that they have in place,” Prince. “I’d feel safe using any of the cryptocurrency exchanges that use Cloudflare today.”

CNBC has reported on individual crypto investors who had their Coinbase accounts hacked.

Editor's Choice

Posts You Might Like

A Resilient & Innovative Leader | Maushum Basu

Maushum Basu is a visionary leader who inspires his team with a clear, compelling purpose. Unafraid to take calculated risks, he understands that growth often stems from change and innovation. His deep commitment to both Airia Brands, Inc.

Directing with Courage & Precision | Martin Paquette

When speaking with Martin Paquette, one thing is immediately apparent: he’s honest. His transparency is refreshing. While many shy away from such vulnerability, Paquette sees it as a force to reckon with. The incredible emotional intelligence speaks to years of looking within—it’s also what allows him to acknowledge his mistakes gracefully and use them as opportunities to innovate.

An Innovative Thinker | Marina Charriere

Marina Charriere, CEO of Star Drug Testing Services, Star Drug Testing Services (Windsor Park), and First Defence Face Masks go hand in hand. Star is a drug and alcohol testing facility, and First D F M is a face mask company.

A Pioneer of Food Technology | Lejjy Gafour

Lejjy Gafour, CEO, CULT Food Science Corp. Lejjy is a self-taught entrepreneur and experienced company operator who made his start creating opportunities at the young age of 14, and he has been working, leading, and building businesses ever since.

Leave us a message

Subscribe

Fill the form our team will contact you

Advertise with us

Fill the form our team will contact you​