Blockchain security firm CertiK has reported an exploit on Hyperbridge, a cross-chain bridge protocol operating in the Polkadot ecosystem. An attacker took advantage of a flaw in the bridge’s security system to mint 1 billion fake DOT tokens. The report, dated July 26, 2026, confirmed a vulnerability in the smart contract mechanism, allowing the hacker to flood the protocol’s system with artificial assets lacking real reserve backing.
The breach on Hyperbridge marks the second cross-chain bridge exploit in less than 24 hours. This case is separate from the AFX Trader hack that also came to light on the same day. The collapse of two infrastructures in a single day highlights the serious vulnerabilities still plaguing cross-blockchain interoperability technology.
Minted Figures Differ From Actual Outflows
Although the volume of fake tokens minted surpassed 1 billion DOT, the actual losses suffered by Hyperbridge have yet to be determined. Minting billions of counterfeit tokens through a security loophole does not automatically guarantee that the attacker can convert the entire sum into fiat currency or other crypto assets. The primary determining factor lies in the protocol’s own liquidity.
The hacker can only withdraw real funds up to the amount of genuine assets currently locked within the bridge’s liquidity pool. To date, there has been no official confirmation regarding how much real value was actually drained by the attacker before the minting loophole was patched. Fake DOT tokens exceeding actual liquidity will ultimately remain worthless numbers with no market value.
Escape Route of the Previous Attack
The Hyperbridge exploit occurred around the same time as another hacker attack on the AFX Trader protocol. In the AFX Trader incident, the attacker breached cross-chain bridge defenses, causing losses of $24 million. The AFX hacker bridged 655.4 ETH of stolen proceeds directly to the Bitcoin network using THORChain.
Two bridge protocol hacks in a single day send an alarm regarding the current security of crypto infrastructure. Interoperability bridges connect assets across different networks, making them constant targets for attacks. For everyday users moving assets cross-chain, this string of incidents is a reminder that bridging protocol security still possesses fatal vulnerabilities when put to the test in the wild.
Reported by CoinMarketCap.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only, not financial advice. Cryptocurrency assets are highly volatile and carry significant risk. Always do your own research (DYOR) and never invest more than you can afford to lose.
