Biggest Heist Ever: The Infamous Bitcoin Heist
Netflix’s latest true-crime documentary, Biggest Heist Ever, delves into the most controversial Bitcoin theft in history, exploring the crimes of husband and wife duo, Ilya Lichtenstein and Heather Morris. The documentary, directed by Chris Smith, reveals the shocking twists and turns of the case, from the initial hacking of the Bitcoin website, Bitfinex, to the couple’s eventual arrest and sentencing.
In 2016, Lichtenstein and Morris hacked into Bitfinex, stealing around 120,000 Bitcoin, worth $4.5 billion. The hacking was described as “a devastating moment” for the company, and hack victims felt like they had been “gut-punched” to find their Bitcoin had been stolen.
After an intense investigation, authorities were able to trace the theft to the AlphaBay accounts of Lichtenstein and Morris. The couple, who were dubbed the Bitcoin Bonnie and Clyde, were initially able to get away with the heist, living in the public eye while committing the crime.
However, their social media presence ultimately led to their downfall. Morgan, who performed rap songs under the persona Razzlekhan, included cryptic hints about the couple’s Bitcoin laundering in her lyrics. This allowed investigators to see her online posts, which gave them a chance to gather evidence they otherwise would not have gotten.
In 2022, Lichtenstein and Morris were arrested in Manhattan, New York, and in 2023, they pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering. In 2024, Morgan was sentenced to 18 months in prison, while Lichtenstein was given a 5-year sentence with credit for time served.
Lichtenstein expressed remorse for his part in the laundering and a desire to work against cybercrime after his release. The documentary offers an interesting perspective into the couple’s actions and how they were able to commit the heist while hidden in plain sight.
Biggest Heist Ever is a must-watch for anyone interested in true-crime documentaries and the world of cybercrime. The film provides a unique look into the complex web of fraud and deception that surrounds the most lucrative heist in history.
