DeFi exchange Ambient Finance recovers domain after DNS attack

DeFi platform Ambient Finance regained control of its website after hackers commandeered its domain.

Ambient Finance became the latest decentralized finance protocol to face a series of front-end attacks launched by unknown cybercriminals. On Oct. 17, Ambient notified its decentralized exchange users of a Domain Name System issue with its website.

DNS exploits occur when hackers compromise a platform’s domain registrar credentials, often aiming to steal assets and funds by embedding malicious links into the website.

Ambient Finance reassured users that its smart contracts and on-chain infrastructure remained secure from attackers. However, the DEX warned users against visiting the website or signing any transactions until further notice to safeguard user assets.

Two hours after the problem was first reported, Ambient Finance announced on X that the issue had been resolved and its DNS was in the process of being repaired.

We have recovered the domain, and DNS is updating now. Since DNS propagation takes time, users should wait for the all-clear before interacting with the front-end site.  Contracts and funds are safe and unaffected.

Ambient Finance on X

A surge of cyberattacks has plagued DeFi and crypto protocols in recent months, indicating that security concerns persist despite growth in the on-chain sector.

In September, Ethereum-based automated market maker Balancer confirmed a front-end incident caused by a social engineering attack. Several DeFi platforms lost control over domains and websites in a July DNS siege. Ethena Labs was forced to temporarily halt its website last month, noting issues with its website.

While cybercriminals were on the prowl, on-chain users continued flocking to blockchain services and cryptocurrency protocols. DeFi remains popular as crypto usage explodes in 2024, a report from Andreessen Horowitz stated on Oct. 16.