Ripple shares North Korea-linked threat data as crypto attacks shift to social engineering

Ripple is sharing North Korean threat intelligence with crypto firms via Crypto ISAC to combat sophisticated social engineering attacks. April's $285 million Drift breach and $292 million Kelp exploit revealed operatives no longer target smart contracts but infiltrate teams over months. Industry-wide intelligence sharing aims to identify repeat applicants rejected elsewhere, though effectiveness remains uncertain as attackers continue targeting crypto firms.

Bitcoin surged past $81,000 in Asian trading, marking its highest level since late January amid mixed performance from Ether, Solana, and Dogecoin. Options desks positioned for upside breakouts through cheap call strategies, expecting a decisive move above $80K to shift market sentiment positive. U.S. earnings and jobs data ahead could trigger further volatility despite ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Bitcoin surged to $81,261, gaining 2.93% amid a remarkable 66-day negative funding streak in derivatives markets. This prolonged period of negative funding rates—where traders pay to hold short positions—typically signals capitulation among leverage traders, potentially supporting price rallies. The move reflects shifting market sentiment despite macroeconomic headwinds. Indian crypto investors should monitor funding rate reversals as key risk indicators.