- The U.S. Department of Justice has launched a website for individuals affected by the 2016 Bitfinex hack to submit their statements
- This initiative aims to give potential victims a platform to share how they were impacted by Ilya Lichtenstein and Heather Morgan’s alleged criminal actions
- Although the DOJ does not formally recognize victims under the Crime Victims’ Rights Act for this case, it is encouraging those affected to share their experiences
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has created a platform for individuals impacted by the 2016 Bitfinex hack to share how the theft of around 120,000 bitcoins has affected them. This move provides Bitfinex account holders and other potential victims with an opportunity to speak out on the effects of the alleged laundering activities by Ilya Lichtenstein and Heather Morgan. While the DOJ does not officially classify these individuals as victims under the Crime Victims’ Rights Act (CVRA), it is offering a public channel for them to express their concerns.
“No Victims” Says DOJ
The purpose of the DOJ’s platform is to hear from those affected by the 2016 Bitfinex hack, which was orchestrated by Ilya Lichtenstein and assisted by his wife, Heather Morgan. DOJ officials stated the initiative will provide a means for individuals to express the consequences of these actions, particularly for affected Bitfinex account holders, but it has clarified that it does not classify these individuals as formal victims under the CVRA.
However, the agency has acknowledged the importance of transparency and inclusivity in cases involving significant public impact. “Our goal is to provide a platform for anyone affected to share their story and be heard,” a DOJ spokesperson noted, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to accountability.
Complex Laundering Scheme Rumbled
Following the breach in August 2016, Lichtenstein allegedly deployed an intricate web of laundering methods, including multiple crypto mixers and transfers across non-compliant exchanges and darknet markets. Heather Morgan reportedly assisted him, extending their scheme until their arrest in 2022. Both have pleaded guilty to money laundering conspiracy charges, with sentencing scheduled for mid-November 2024.
The situation involving the perpetrators is not the only surprising element of the case: two weeks ago, a hacker drained $20 million from a U.S. government wallet containing seized Bitfinex assets. Most of these funds were subsequently returned, although some transfers to exchanges remain unrecovered.
