While AML rules have traditionally applied to actors in the financial sector, some of which have applied to companies in the digital asset industry, we expect to see additional rules and regulations addressing illegal use. Companies should ensure compliance with current AML and counterterrorism rules and regulations and should be prepared to take additional action in the future.
Regulators’ concerns about the link between cryptocurrencies and criminal activity, such as money laundering, are substantiated by the growing illicit use of cryptocurrencies. According to a report released in January by Chain analysis, the number of cryptocurrencies spent on “darknet markets” rose 70 percent in 2019 to an all-time high of $790 million.
Enforcement is also on the rise. Federal law enforcement arrested Larry Harmon, CEO of Coin Ninja, for allegedly participating in a $300 million money-laundering conspiracy by operating Helix, a “tumbler” that concealed the source or owner of Bitcoins. The indictment charged him with (i) conspiracy to launder monetary instruments, (ii) operating an unlicensed money transmitting business, and (iii) money transmission without a license.
The U.S. government continues to focus on the use of digital assets for illicit means.
Written by Giacomo Breda
Comentarios