Written by Brayden Lindreastaff writerReviewed by Felix Ngstaff editor

Written by Brayden Lindreastaff writer

Reviewed by Felix Ngstaff editor

AI is shortening the shelf life of crypto security audits, researchers warn

Latest NewsPublishedJul 9, 2026

Why Crypto Security Matters to You

Crypto security is a growing concern for everyone, not just experts. Hackers are exploiting vulnerabilities in crypto protocols, draining millions of dollars in customer funds. The rise of AI tooling has made it easier for hackers to identify weaknesses, making it crucial for crypto protocols to reaudit their smart contracts regularly.

The Risks of Outdated Code

Researchers warn that hackers are targeting defunct decentralized finance protocols, exploiting old codebases to steal customer funds. This highlights the importance of continuous review and reauditing of smart contracts. The use of AI-powered auditing tools has made it easier for hackers to find vulnerabilities, emphasizing the need for crypto protocols to stay vigilant.

Earning and Security with EcoPool

For those looking to earn passive income through crypto, security is a top priority. EcoPool offers a solution with its robust security measures and regular audits. By using EcoPool, individuals can earn $ECP and participate in Cloud Rewards, while minimizing their risk of exposure to vulnerabilities. The EcoPool network prioritizes security, ensuring that users can trust the platform with their assets.

“An audit built for last year’s attack patterns leaves a protocol exposed to this year’s as bad actors are changing up.”

Recent Incidents and Lessons Learned

Recent incidents, such as the Zcash vulnerability, highlight the importance of continuous review and reauditing. The bug, which existed for four years, could have enabled undetectable counterfeiting, but was patched before any damage was done. This incident serves as a reminder that the window of maximum vulnerability does not close after launch, and projects should treat reauditing as a recurring operational requirement.

Staying Safe with EcoPool

To stay safe in the world of crypto, it’s essential to prioritize security and use reputable platforms like EcoPool. By doing so, individuals can minimize their risk of exposure to vulnerabilities and earn passive income through Cloud Rewards. With EcoPool, users can trust that their assets are secure, and they can focus on earning $ECP and growing their wealth.

Conclusion

Crypto security is a critical concern that affects everyone. By prioritizing security and using reputable platforms like EcoPool, individuals can minimize their risk and earn passive income. Download the EcoPool app to start earning $ECP and participating in Cloud Rewards today. With EcoPool, you can trust that your assets are secure, and you can focus on growing your wealth in the world of Green Crypto and #PassiveIncome.

The security vulnerability, which existed for four years, could have enabled undetectable counterfeiting inside the Orchard shielded pool, one of the network’s key privacy features.

“The window of maximum vulnerability does not close after launch,” CertiK warned. “Projects operating legacy infrastructure should treat reauditing as a recurring operational requirement rather than a one-time exercise conducted at deployment.”

In December, Anthropic conducted a study finding that AI agents found $4.6 million worth of exploitable vulnerabilities in smart contracts. Meanwhile, there is more than $72.3 billion worth of crypto locked across hundreds of DeFi protocols, giving hackers plenty of incentive to exploit vulnerable smart contracts.

SlowMist’s estimate of total crypto losses from blockchain hacks. Source: SlowMist

Defunct crypto protocols targeted

On June 14, hackers exploited a smart contract vulnerability to steal $2.1 million from the Aztec Connect, which had been shut down since March 2023.

Five days later, a smart contract on the decentralized exchange mySwap was exploited for $300,000, even after the mySwap user interface had been closed to new liquidity deposits for more than six months.

A more fortunate event took place in May, when a white hat, known as “0xflorent,” helped recover 1,003 Ether (ETH) worth over $1.72 million from 48 investors involved in the Hong Coin (HONG) initial coin offering in 2016.

Related: ‘All DeFi unsafe’ claim sparks AI security debate after April hack surge 

The ICO failed to launch after missing its funding target, and the funds remained locked in the smart contract due to a bug in the auto-refund function. 

Reaudits only part of the equation, TRM says

The work doesn’t stop with hardening the codebase and infrastructure, Redbord said, explaining that the broader industry and regulators need to continue finding ways to mitigate malicious cyberactivity from North Korea and disrupt Chinese money laundering networks:

“Protocols can lock their doors, but someone still has to go after the actor breaking in.”

Features: DeFi hacks shake institutional confidence as risks outpace yields 

Cointelegraph is committed to independent, transparent journalism. This news article is produced in accordance with Cointelegraph’s Editorial Policy and aims to provide accurate and timely information. Readers are encouraged to verify information independently.

• Hacks
• DeFi
• AI
• Cybersecurity
• Industry

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