Hackers steal $320M in Bitcoin from Liquid Network, claim ethical motives
Hackers stole $320 million in Bitcoin from the Liquid Network, then returned $270 million, claiming they were exposing security flaws. This follows a pattern of high-profile crypto exploits in 2026, including attacks on Polymarket and other exchanges.
Key takeaways
- Hackers stole $320 million in Bitcoin from the Liquid Network.
- The hackers returned $270 million, claiming they were exposing security flaws.
- This incident is part of a growing trend of high-profile crypto exploits in 2026.
- Users should consider moving funds to more secure wallets and staying informed about security measures.
- The Liquid Network team is expected to announce compensations or security updates.

Hackers drain $320M in Bitcoin from Liquid Network
Hackers drained $320 million in Bitcoin from the Liquid Network, a sidechain of Bitcoin designed for faster and more confidential transactions. The hackers then returned $270 million, claiming they were exposing security vulnerabilities in the network. This incident is part of a growing trend of high-profile crypto exploits in 2026, including attacks on Polymarket and other exchanges.
Why the timing matters
The timing of this hack is significant, as it comes amid a surge in crypto-related security breaches. In August 2026, hackers stole $8 million from a crypto exchange across two blockchains. Additionally, the Sui Network suffered two days of outages in May 2026, coinciding with a 20% drop in its token value. These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges in securing crypto networks.
What it means if you hold Bitcoin or use Liquid Network
If you hold Bitcoin or use the Liquid Network, this hack serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with crypto investments. While the hackers returned most of the stolen funds, the incident underscores the importance of robust security measures. Users should stay informed about potential vulnerabilities and consider using multi-signature wallets and other security best practices.
What to do next
For those affected by the hack, the first step is to ensure that your funds are secure. If you hold Bitcoin or use the Liquid Network, consider moving your funds to a more secure wallet. Additionally, stay updated on the latest security measures and best practices to protect your investments. Keep an eye on announcements from the Liquid Network team regarding any compensations or security updates.
For more information on how to secure your crypto assets, you can refer to our article on how the Ethereum Foundation uses AI to find network bugs before hackers do.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Liquid Network?
The Liquid Network is a sidechain of Bitcoin designed for faster and more confidential transactions.
How can I secure my crypto assets?
Consider using multi-signature wallets, staying updated on security measures, and moving funds to more secure wallets.
What should I do if I'm affected by the hack?
Ensure your funds are secure, consider moving them to a more secure wallet, and stay updated on announcements from the Liquid Network team.
Are there other recent crypto hacks?
Yes, in August 2026, hackers stole $8 million from a crypto exchange across two blockchains, and the Sui Network suffered outages in May 2026.