🇬🇷 Greece Makes History with First Crypto Seizure Tied to $1.5 Billion Bybit Hack. By ChainFabricNews

Image source: 99Bitcoins

In a major breakthrough for cryptocurrency law enforcement, Greece has carried out its first-ever crypto asset seizure, freezing around €66 million ($72 million) linked to the massive Bybit hack that shook the crypto world earlier this year. This marks a significant step forward for the country in the fight against cybercrime and shows just how seriously Greek authorities are taking digital asset regulation in 2025.

🔍 What Happened?

Back in February, the crypto exchange Bybit was targeted by the infamous Lazarus Group, a hacking organization widely believed to be backed by North Korea. The hackers made off with over $1.5 billion worth of Ether (ETH) in what is now considered one of the biggest crypto heists ever recorded.

Since then, investigators worldwide have been tracking the stolen funds as they were shuffled across various wallets, platforms, and mixers in an attempt to hide their origin.

But recently, Greek authorities caught a break.

👮 How Greece Stepped In

Thanks to advanced blockchain tracing tools provided by Chainalysis, a blockchain analytics firm, Greece’s Anti-Money Laundering Authority (HAML) was able to trace a portion of the stolen Ether to a crypto wallet held on a Greek exchange. The suspicious wallet showed links to the Bybit hack, prompting immediate action.

In collaboration with a regional tech partner and using forensic tools, investigators confirmed the funds’ origin and swiftly issued a freezing order—locking down nearly €66 million in assets before they could be moved again.

This move not only protected potential victims but also showed that even the most complex cybercrimes can’t hide behind blockchain anonymity forever.

💬 What Officials Are Saying

Greek authorities are calling this a landmark case. Finance officials say it’s a perfect example of how public and private sectors can work together to uphold justice—even in the digital space.

“This is more than just a crypto case,” said one HAML spokesperson. “It’s a statement that Greece is ready to enforce financial security in the digital age.”

📉 What It Means for Crypto in Greece

This high-profile case comes at a time when crypto regulations across Europe are tightening. Under the EU’s new MiCA regulation, crypto service providers now have stricter compliance obligations. Greece is fully onboard, rolling out new laws, tax requirements, and licensing rules to better control crypto activity.

From 2025 onwards, crypto profits in Greece will also be taxed at a 15% capital gains rate, aligning with broader EU standards.

🌍 The Bigger Picture

Greece isn’t alone. Other countries like Germany and the U.S. have also taken steps to freeze and recover stolen Bybit funds. Together, these actions signal a stronger international push to make crypto safer and more accountable.

While crypto still offers freedom and opportunity, cases like this prove that crime in the blockchain world leaves digital footprints—and those footprints can lead straight to law enforcement.

✅ Final Thoughts

Greece’s first crypto seizure is a big win—not just for the country, but for the global crypto community. It shows that with the right tools and commitment, justice can be served—even on the blockchain.

For crypto users in Greece, this is a reminder to stay informed, stay compliant, and embrace the positive evolution of the digital economy.