Web3 Security Incident Analysis: Data Leakage Risks and Protection Measures

In recent years, cybersecurity threats have become increasingly severe, and the risks faced by the Web3 ecosystem are particularly prominent. This article will analyze the characteristics of data breach incidents in the Web3 field, explore the long-term risks they pose, and propose corresponding protective measures.

Classification of Web3 Security Incidents

Web3 security incidents can be broadly divided into two categories:

1. Exploit of Protocol Vulnerabilities: Attackers exploit vulnerabilities in smart contract code to gain economic benefits, usually occurring and ending within a specific timeframe.

2. Network Intrusion: Attackers infiltrate the organization's internal network to steal company data or funds, which may result in long-term ongoing risks.

Compared to protocol vulnerabilities, the risk of data breaches caused by network intrusions is greater and may persist for years. Especially the leakage of personal identification information ( PII ) can pose long-term risks to users.

Data Breach Incident Analysis

The analysis of 74 Web3 security incidents indicates:

• 31%(23 starting from ) belongs to events that may retrieve data
• 69%(51 start) for events of data retrieval failure or only capital loss.

After 2019, the number of retrievable data incidents significantly increased, related to the overall rise in hacking attacks during the pandemic.

Data Leakage Direction

The stolen data mainly leaked through the following channels:

1. Dark web ( .onion site )
2. Social platforms like Telegram
3. Online Hacker Forum

Among them, online forums were once the main channel, but recently several large forums have been shut down. Currently, the dark web market has become the primary venue for data trading.

Long-term Risk Assessment

Compared to pure financial loss, the risks posed by data breaches are greater and last longer:

• Customer personal data is difficult to change, facing the risk of being misused for a long time.
• Even if the exchange collapses, historical data may still be utilized.
• The risk of data leaks is highest after 2019, especially for data still circulating on the dark web.

Protective Measures

To reduce the risk of data leakage, users can take the following measures:

1. Reduce the use of centralized services, decentralize asset storage.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication
3. Avoid reusing passwords
4. Regularly monitor data breach situations
5. Use credit monitoring services

In summary, although security vulnerabilities are difficult to completely avoid, effective risk reduction can be achieved through measures such as limiting personal data exposure and enhancing account security. In the Web3 world, protecting data and asset security requires users to remain vigilant at all times.