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WBTC Temporarily Pauses LayerZero Cross-Chain Transfers Following rsETH Incident

Update: April 25, 2026 - Services Resumed

Following a review of the incident and validation of the underlying infrastructure, WBTC has resumed cross-chain transfers via LayerZero.

The OFT (Omnichain Fungible Token) functionality is now fully re-enabled. Native WBTC operations, including custody, minting, and redemption, remained unaffected throughout.

This resumption follows confirmation that it is safe to restore cross-chain functionality. WBTC will continue to monitor the system closely and maintain a cautious approach to ensure the integrity of Bitcoin across all supported networks.)

WBTC Temporarily Pauses LayerZero Cross-Chain Transfers Following rsETH Incident

Following the recent incident involving rsETH and cross-chain activity on LayerZero, WBTC has taken precautionary measures to protect users and maintain the integrity of the ecosystem.

As of today, 19th April 2026, all WBTC cross-chain transfers via LayerZero have been temporarily paused. This includes disabling the OFT (Omnichain Fungible Token) functionality of WBTC and taking the associated DVN (Decentralized Verifier Network) offline.

Scope of Impact

This pause applies only to the OFT version of WBTC on LayerZero.

  • Native WBTC remains fully operational

  • Native minting and redemption processes are unaffected

  • WBTC custody and reserves remain unchanged and fully verifiable

WBTC continues to be backed 1:1 by Bitcoin held in custody, with no impact to underlying assets.

Context

This action follows the recent exploit involving Kelp DAO’s rsETH, where approximately $290 million was drained through its adapter, raising concerns around cross-chain infrastructure.

While the incident is not directly related to WBTC, multiple protocols across the ecosystem have taken precautionary steps while investigations are ongoing.

Why This Action Was Taken

Cross-chain systems introduce additional dependencies and potential risk vectors. In light of the ongoing investigation, temporarily pausing LayerZero transfers is a proactive measure to:

  • Protect user funds

  • Prevent unintended exposure

  • Allow time for a full root cause analysis

This approach aligns with broader ecosystem responses as protocols prioritize safety while more information becomes available.

Next Steps

WBTC is actively monitoring the situation alongside ecosystem partners, including updates from LayerZero and Kelp DAO.

Cross-chain transfers via LayerZero will remain paused until:

  • The root cause of the incident is clearly identified

  • The relevant infrastructure is confirmed to be secure

  • Appropriate safeguards are in place

Once these conditions are met, WBTC will resume cross-chain transfers.

Ongoing Monitoring

WBTC will continue to actively monitor the development of the incident and work closely with ecosystem partners to address relevant risks and concerns.

Once the root cause is identified and risks are addressed, LayerZero transfers will be safely restored.

Updates will follow as the situation develops.

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Disclaimer: Information provided is for information purposes only and is not financial advice. No representation or warranty has been made as to the content, accuracy, timeliness, suitability or completeness of such information. Participation in DeFi carries risks, always do your own research.