Crypto Cybercrime: China’s Supreme Procuratorate Raises Concern on Increased Use

The Supreme Procuratorate of China has expressed alarm over the growing role of crypto and blockchain in cybercrimes.
By Nausheen Thusoo
Crypto Cybercrime: China’s Supreme Procuratorate Raises Concern on Increased Use

Highlights

  • According to the Chinese Supreme Procuratorate, new forms of cybercrime utilizing blockchain technology and the metaverse are always evolving.
  • This scrutiny comes at a time when China is notching up its regulations to curb crypto cyber crimes. 
  • More and more countries are becoming alert about regulating cyber crimes that involve digital assets.

China’s Supreme Procuratorate has dragged crypto markets into the limelight again. According to a translated version of the website, the regulator has raised concerns over cryptocurrency’s increased involvement in cybercrimes. The scrutiny comes at a time when China is trying to tighten its grip over illicit crypto crimes and possibly stop them from happening.

Advertisement
Advertisement

China’s Supreme Procuratorate Raises Concerns Over Crypto Cybercrime

According to the Chinese Supreme Procuratorate, new forms of cybercrime utilizing blockchain technology and the metaverse are always evolving. The regulator has also pointed out how cryptocurrencies have also given rise to new sorts of illegal activities. Scams that involve cryptocurrencies have seen a new rise recently. Investors are usually scammed out of their assets by phishing links, fake crypto investments, and even fake websites.  The regulator also said that money laundering with cryptocurrency has gained popularity. It is now a common tool used by criminals to move money they don’t have.

Read Also: Digital Chamber Files Restraining Order Against EIA For Targeting Bitcoin Mining

Advertisement
Advertisement

China Tightens Grip Over Illicit Crypto Activities

This scrutiny comes at a time when China is notching up its regulations to curb crypto cyber crimes.  Previously, Hong Kong raised concerns over WorldCoin’s iris identification, saying that it could be a threat to sensitive data.  China’s Supreme Procuratorate recently sentenced Zhao Dong, a well-known person in the cryptocurrency space, to seven years in prison for running illicit cross-border cryptocurrency transfers.

China is particularly concerned about new payment systems that have appeared in the Internet age and give authorities access to covert conduits for money transfers. Corrupt people in China are increasingly utilizing the “cold storage” feature of encrypted digital currency to avoid being discovered online. Using the money for cross-border transactions raises further money laundering issues, according to the expert.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Illicit Crypto Activities Drop in 2023, Still a Big Threat

A study published by Chainalysis claims that the amount of money received by unofficial cryptocurrency addresses decreased significantly in 2023. The value amounted to a total of $24.2 billion. However, one must note as always that these numbers are lower-bound estimates based on inflows to the unlawful addresses that are currently located. These totals will most likely be greater in a year with more illegal addresses and factor in their past behavior when estimating. Despite the lower number, more and more countries are becoming alert about regulating cyber crimes that involve digital assets. This also comes in the wake of a global recognition of taking steps to curb illegal activities related to the crypto sphere.

 

 

 

Advertisement
Nausheen Thusoo
Why trust CoinGape: CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights to our readers. Our journalists and analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.