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KelpDAO Exploit: $294 Million Hack Linked to LayerZero Vulnerability

KelpDAO Exploit: $294 Million Hack Linked to LayerZero Vulnerability

First seen 21 Apr 2026, 19:00 UTC

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ThreatCluster AI
ThreatCluster April 22, 2026 at 18:46 UTC
  • KelpDAO lost $294 million due to a hack linked to vulnerabilities in LayerZero.
  • The exploit affected over 20 different blockchain networks.
  • KelpDAO asserts that its own systems were not involved in the breach.

KelpDAO reported a significant hack resulting in a loss of $294 million, claiming that its own systems were not compromised. The exploit is attributed to vulnerabilities in LayerZero, a cross-chain messaging protocol, affecting over 20 blockchain networks. This incident marks one of the largest DeFi hacks of 2026, raising alarms within the cryptocurrency community. The attack method remains under investigation, but the scale of the breach has prompted urgent discussions about security in decentralized finance. As of April 22, 2026, KelpDAO has stated that they are cooperating with security experts to address the situation and prevent future incidents. The breach has intensified scrutiny on LayerZero and similar protocols, highlighting the need for enhanced security measures across the DeFi landscape.

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Updated 150d ago How this analysis works

Timeline

2026-04-19
KelpDAO hack reported, loss estimated at $294 million.
2026-04-20
LayerZero identified as the attack vector.
2026-04-21
KelpDAO claims its systems were not compromised.
2026-04-22
KelpDAO continues to work with security experts.

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