Crypto exchange Kraken accuses blockchain security outfit CertiK of extortion

Kraken disclosed that a recent UX change introduced a vulnerability allowing account balances to be credited before deposits cleared; three researchers allegedly exploited this to withdraw nearly $3M from the Kraken treasury and then demanded more money, prompting Kraken to classify the actions as criminal extortion and involve law enforcement. The implicated security firm CertiK disputes Kraken’s account, saying it offered to return funds and accusing Kraken of threatening employees, while community observers flagged inconsistencies and on-chain activity related to the dispute.