# OKX to Restart DEX with Anti-Abuse Upgrades After Lazarus ‘Misuse’

The world of cryptocurrency has witnessed its fair share of security breaches and malicious activities in recent times. In response to the increasing threat of North Korean hacking groups, including the notorious Lazarus Group, crypto exchange OKX has taken significant steps to strengthen its decentralized exchange (DEX) aggregator.

In March, OKX paused its DEX aggregator, OKX Web3, to prevent further misuse by the Lazarus Group, which had previously exploited DeFi services. The decision was made in an effort to protect users and prevent any potential harm. However, with the recent upgrades, OKX is now poised to restart its DEX aggregator with enhanced security features.

According to Star Xu, founder and CEO of OKX, the re-launched DEX aggregator will feature a "real-time abuse detecting and blocking system." This advanced system is designed to identify suspicious or fraudulent onchain activity from hackers and other malicious actors. With this feature in place, users can rest assured that their transactions are secure and protected from potential threats.

One of the key features of the upgraded OKX Web3 is its ability to block hackers and bad actors in real-time using a dynamic database of suspect addresses. This system provides an additional layer of security, ensuring that users' assets are safe and secure. Furthermore, proactive alerts will be issued to warn users about risky transactions, allowing them to take necessary precautions.

Another feature added to the onchain analysis tool is categorization of wallet holders based on their identification as possible whales or snipers. This feature helps to identify potential threats and takes proactive measures to prevent any malicious activity.

OKX has also taken steps to enhance its security through audits and verification by leading blockchain security firms, including CertiK, Hacken, and SlowMist. The exchange's infrastructure has been tested through a bug bounty program, ensuring that all systems are secure and up-to-date.

The re-launch of OKX Web3 marks an important milestone for the exchange, demonstrating its commitment to user safety and security. With these enhanced features in place, users can trust that their transactions are secure and protected from potential threats.

In response to allegations made by Bloomberg earlier this year, OKX has clarified that it is not a custodian of customer assets and that its self-custody wallet service swap feature serves as an aggregator, not a custodian. The exchange has also taken steps to address the issue, including developing a hacker address system to track bad actors' latest addresses and block them.

The Lazarus Group's involvement in other crypto services has also raised concerns about the security of digital assets. Crypto exchange eXch announced its ceasing of operations on May 1 after reports alleged that it was used to launder funds from the $1.4 billion Bybit hack in February. While OKX has taken steps to prevent such incidents, the importance of ongoing vigilance and cooperation with regulatory bodies cannot be overstated.

With OKX Web3 re-launched and its advanced security features in place, users can trust that their transactions are secure and protected from potential threats. The exchange's commitment to user safety and security is a testament to its dedication to providing a trustworthy platform for digital asset trading.