Bitcoin swap service Boltz has indefinitely suspended operations due to a rapid increase in AI-assisted hacking attempts. The company stated that attackers are exploiting vulnerabilities faster than its team can patch them, but assured users that no funds were at risk because the platform is non-custodial.
The indefinite suspension of Boltz highlights the growing threat of AI-powered cyberattacks against cryptocurrency infrastructure, potentially impacting the security and operational viability of smaller service providers.
Boltz, a non-custodial Bitcoin swap service, has suspended its operations indefinitely, citing a significant increase in AI-assisted hacking attempts that outpace the company's ability to patch vulnerabilities. The company announced on X that swaps are disabled until further notice, with no estimated return date.
Boltz emphasized that no user funds were ever at risk because the platform operates on a non-custodial, trustless atomic swap design, ensuring users retain control of their assets. The company stated that while previous exploits were contained, the rapid iteration of AI-driven attacks necessitates the pause. Boltz cannot responsibly re-enable swaps while actively being targeted and working on fixes, noting a recent acceleration in attack pace.
The situation highlights the evolving cybersecurity landscape for Bitcoin infrastructure operators, where AI allows attackers to probe systems at machine speed. Boltz indicated that a resumption of swap services is not expected in the short term, and its API will remain available for processing refunds.
This development occurs as the broader cryptocurrency industry grapples with the impact of AI on cyberattacks. Separately, Ledger CTO Charles Guillemet warned that AI enables attackers to uncover vulnerabilities rapidly, while defenders increasingly rely on AI to counter these threats. Fallout from a Coldcard wallet exploit is also ongoing, with estimated losses nearing $130 million.