Multichain (formerly Anyswap) was a cross-chain router protocol that moved assets between many blockchains. In July 2023 it suffered a major incident, halted operations, and left large amounts of user funds frozen. This page explains what Multichain was and what happened, and gives general guidance on bridging safely. It is not a live bridge and is not affiliated with Multichain.
Multichain is not operational — do not send funds
What Multichain was
Multichain, formerly known as Anyswap, was a cross-chain router protocol. It let users move assets between many blockchains by locking or burning an asset on a source chain and issuing a representation on a destination chain, coordinated by a network of nodes that signed cross-chain messages.
At its peak it connected dozens of chains and held significant liquidity. This page is an independent, historical reference; it is not affiliated with Multichain and does not operate any bridge.
The July 2023 shutdown
In July 2023, large and unexplained outflows moved funds out of Multichain's contracts across several chains, and the protocol's operations halted. According to the project's own statements, the team lost access to the infrastructure and keys needed to run the protocol, and it did not resume normal operation.
Following the incident, the project advised users to stop using Multichain and its router contracts. The bridge has not returned to normal service.
Frozen funds & recovery
Because there is no functioning Multichain bridge to process transfers, funds stuck in its contracts are largely inaccessible through the protocol. Some affected assets and downstream protocols were handled case by case by other teams, but there is no general "un-freeze" button.
Beware of recovery scams. Websites, tools, "support" accounts or wallet prompts that claim to recover Multichain funds are frequently fraudulent. Never share a seed phrase, sign an unknown transaction, or pay an up-front fee to "release" funds. This is not financial or legal advice.
Why bridges carry risk
Cross-chain bridges concentrate large amounts of value and depend on smart contracts plus off-chain signers or relayers. That combination has made bridges one of the most frequently exploited parts of crypto, whether through contract bugs, key compromise or operational failure.
The Multichain incident is a reminder that a bridge is only as safe as its weakest link, including the people and infrastructure controlling it. Treat any bridge as carrying real, non-trivial risk.
Bridging safely elsewhere
If you need to move assets between chains, use a well-known, actively maintained bridge rather than a defunct one. General good practice:
- Prefer established bridges with an ongoing track record and public security reviews.
- Confirm the exact official website; do not follow links from unknown messages.
- Check that the source and destination chains and the token contract on both sides are correct.
- Send a small test amount first, then the rest.
This page names no specific replacement and gives general guidance only.
Verify before you bridge
Whatever bridge you use, verify each detail before you approve or sign.
Do not use old Multichain contracts
Multichain FAQ
Is Multichain still operational?
No. Multichain ceased normal operation after the July 2023 incident. Its router is not functioning, and you should not send or approve funds to old Multichain or Anyswap contracts. This page is an informational reference, not a working bridge.
What was Multichain?
Multichain, formerly Anyswap, was a cross-chain router protocol that moved assets between many blockchains by locking or burning on one chain and issuing a representation on another, coordinated by a network of signing nodes.
What happened to Multichain in 2023?
In July 2023, large unexplained outflows moved funds out of its contracts and operations halted. Per the project's own statements, the team lost access to the infrastructure needed to run it, and it did not resume. Substantial user funds were frozen or lost.
Can I recover funds stuck in Multichain?
There is no functioning bridge to process transfers, so funds stuck in its contracts are largely inaccessible through the protocol. Be very cautious of "recovery" services claiming otherwise — they are a common scam. Not financial or legal advice.
Should I send funds to Multichain contracts now?
No. Do not send or approve funds to any old Multichain or Anyswap router contract. Transfers cannot be processed and funds can be lost. Treat any site showing Multichain as a live bridge as unsafe.
How can I bridge assets safely instead?
Use a well-known, actively maintained bridge, and verify the app, the chains, the token contract on both sides and the destination address before signing. Send a small test amount first. Bridges carry smart-contract and relayer risk, so favor established options.
Notes
- Do not send or approve funds to any Multichain or Anyswap contract.
- Ignore "recovery" offers; never share a seed phrase or pay to "release" funds.
- For real transfers, use an established bridge and verify every detail, testing small first.