WazirX Resumes INR Withdrawals Following $230 Million Hack: Key Dates and Updates

• WazirX, one of India’s premier cryptocurrency exchanges, has released a timely update regarding the restoration of user withdrawals following a major security breach.
• The exchange reported that a cyberattack on July 18 resulted in the loss of $230 million worth of ERC-20 tokens, necessitating a temporary halt on trading and withdrawals.
• In an official communication, WazirX confirmed that users can expect the resumption of INR withdrawals starting August 26, 2024, a move met with relief within the crypto community.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the recent developments at WazirX, specifically addressing the anticipated resumption of INR withdrawals and the exchange’s responses to user concerns.

Resumption of Withdrawals: Key Developments

WazirX has confirmed that it will begin the phased restoration of INR withdrawals, an important step for users affected by the suspension following the cyberattack. This decision reflects the exchange’s commitment to providing clarity and stability to its customer base. Starting from August 26, 2024, users will have the opportunity to withdraw up to 50% of their available INR balances, with plans for subsequent withdrawals announced through a structured timeline.

Phased Withdrawal Plan and Security Assurances

The phased withdrawal strategy is designed to allow users to gradually regain access to their funds while ensuring the security of the remaining balances. Notably, WazirX has emphasized that the INR reserves, managed by Zanmai Labs Pvt Ltd, remain safe despite the ongoing investigations that have frozen roughly 34% of user balances. This clarity serves to dispel concerns regarding the exchange’s operational integrity in the face of the cyber incident. The first phase from August 26 to September 8 will allow users to withdraw half of their accessible balances, followed by full access from September 9 until September 22, 2024.

Impact of Law Enforcement Involvement

WazirX further disclosed that the frozen funds are linked to law enforcement investigations targeting third-party entities, rather than any actions by Zanmai Labs. This distinction is crucial, as it underscores the exchange’s ongoing commitment to regulatory compliance and user trust. The involvement of law enforcement indicates the seriousness of the situation, emphasizing a need for diligence and transparency as the exchange progresses toward normalizing its operations.

Adjustments in Withdrawal Fees

To facilitate the withdrawal process for users, WazirX announced a significant reduction in withdrawal fees, scaling down from INR 25 to INR 10. This 60% decrease is aimed at mitigating the financial burden on users as they begin to access their funds again. The strategic fee adjustment showcases WazirX’s responsiveness to its customer base during a challenging period.

Conclusion

In conclusion, WazirX’s recent updates regarding the phased resumption of INR withdrawals and the associated fee reductions highlight the exchange’s proactive approach in managing user concerns post-attack. As the exchange navigates the complexities of law enforcement investigations while reinstating user trust, the cryptocurrency community watches closely to assess the long-term implications of these developments on platform stability and user confidence.