Crypto Crime Shocker: $190M Nomad Hack Suspect Faces US Extradition—What Happens Next?
Crypto security is in the spotlight again as Israeli-Russian citizen Alexander Gurevich faces possible extradition to the US over his alleged role in the high-profile $190 million Nomad bridge hack. [Related image: Man handcuffed at airport terminal]
In 2022, Nomad—a major DeFi bridge connecting various blockchains—was compromised, resulting in massive losses that rocked the digital asset ecosystem. According to reports, Gurevich exploited a vulnerability in the bridge’s smart contract code, making off with about $2.89 million in crypto tokens during the broader attack.
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Who Is Alexander Gurevich?
Gurevich, also known as “Alexander Block” after a quick name change attempt, was apprehended at Israel’s Ben-Gurion Airport on May 1 as he tried to flee to Russia with a new passport. Authorities say he tried to cover his tracks just days after allegedly interacting with the Nomad team. [Photo: Israeli police leading suspect in handcuffs]
Key details:
- US prosecutors accuse Gurevich of computer fraud and money laundering in an eight-count indictment.
- Allegedly, after the Nomad hack, Gurevich returned a small portion of the stolen crypto, issued an apology to Nomad’s CTO under a fake identity, then demanded a $500,000 “reward” for revealing the flaw.
- When the company countered with a 10% bounty, he cut off communications.
The Ongoing Battle Against Crypto Crime
Gurevich’s arrest highlights the persistent risks of blockchain vulnerabilities and the evolving tactics used by hackers in the altcoins and crypto tokens space. (If you want to learn more about recent hacks in the DeFi sector, check our guide to the Top Crypto Bridge Hacks of 2022.)
Soon after being arrested, Gurevich appeared in Israeli court and now awaits a hearing on the US extradition request. The penalties are severe: if convicted in the United States, he could face up to 20 years behind bars, much harsher than Israeli law would allow. [Chart: Timeline of Nomad hack and arrest]
Global Ramifications and What’s Next
The case underscores international cooperation in tracking crypto criminals, with the Israeli State Attorney’s Office now pursuing his extradition. Gurevich’s globe-trotting background—he moved to Israel in 2017 but reportedly spent much time abroad—makes law enforcement vigilance all the more crucial in the globalized world of DeFi and blockchain assets.
For perspective on how major legal battles shape the crypto market, see our in-depth analysis: How Law Enforcement Is Catching Crypto Hackers.
Takeaways:
- The Nomad bridge hack remains one of the biggest DeFi thefts of 2022.
- As crypto adoption grows, so do the threats and law enforcement responses.
- Staying updated on blockchain security is essential for anyone involved in digital assets.
Curious about other crypto scandals shaking the industry? Read our feature on Famous Cryptocurrency Crimes and Their Aftermath.