China Accuses US of $13B Bitcoin Heist | Escalating Crypto Tensions
China's National Computer Virus Emergency Response Center has leveled serious allegations against the US government, claiming it hacked to steal 127,000 Bitcoins valued at around $13 billion. As the situation grows tense, reactions from people online range from skepticism to concern.
Background of the Allegations
The Bitcoins in question were supposedly taken from China's LuBian mining pool in December 2020, when their market value was about $3.5 billion. Initially, the incident didnโt generate significant attention, but the coins have remained inactive in hacker wallets until mid-2024, when activity finally resumed.
Recent Actions Spark Controversy
A report ties these moved Bitcoins to addresses controlled by the US, particularly the Department of Justice (DOJ). The DOJ announced a seizure in October 2025 related to Chen Zhi, accused of running a large-scale crypto fraud operation tied to Cambodia's Prince Group. The DOJ insists it did not participate in the initial theft.
Interestingly, Chen Zhi reportedly pleaded for the return of the stolen Bitcoins, offering ransom through blockchain messages, which some find odd. As one commenter noted, "That behavior is not unusual for criminals."
Online Reactions
The allegations have spurred discussions on various user boards, revealing a mix of doubt and outrage among people regarding the issue:
Skepticism surrounds Chinaโs motives. Some recall the country's past Bitcoin ban, prompting questions about their true interest in the matter.
Concerns about the implications this situation might have are evident. Many believe this could lead to a deeper geopolitical struggle. Some users remarked that this scenario resembles tactics used by North Korea.
Speculation on future Bitcoin values has also surfaced, with comments suggesting what happens if a Bitcoin reaches $1 billion in the future.
"The real problem is we don't know why the government would want the Bitcoins," one commenter pointed out.
The Bigger Picture
This situation could ignite a larger conflict between the US and China over cryptocurrency regulations. Experts suggest that the two superpowers may soon enact stricter policies to safeguard their digital assets. With Trump recently asserting US crypto superiority, the timing adds weight to these allegations. This hostility may shape the future dynamics of international relations centered on digital currency.
Key Insights
โณ 127K Bitcoins allegedly stolen from China, worth $13 billion
โฝ US government seizes assets amid ongoing criminal investigations and geopolitical tensions
โป "This could spark a crypto cold war," warns a financial analyst
As this story evolves, how both nations handle the situation could shape the landscape of cryptocurrency on a global scale. Stay tuned for further updates as events unfold.