New UK Bill to Intensify Crackdown on Illicit Crypto

Maxwell Mutuma
October 27, 2023
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Today, UK lawmakers approved the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Bill, targeting a spectrum of illegal acts such as drug trafficking, cybercrime, and terrorism. This legislation marks significant progress in the fight against digital financial crimes, focusing particularly on illicit cryptocurrency assets. With this bill, authorities will have enhanced power to act quickly where strong evidence exists, bypassing the need for prior convictions to seize digital assets involved in criminal activities.

Additionally, the new measures will expedite the freezing of cryptocurrency assets linked to crime. These assets can only be confiscated after an arrest and conviction, limiting law enforcement’s prompt intervention. However, the updated legislation will change the landscape, enabling faster, more substantial seizures of crypto and disrupting criminal financial networks.

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UK Bill Demands Business Identity Verification

The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Bill also introduces reforms to ensure business legitimacy. Individuals registering UK companies must verify their identity, preventing companies from serving as criminal fronts or havens for corrupt foreign officials. This move safeguards legitimate enterprises and enhances the UK’s business environment reputation.

Moreover, the government emphasized last year that the bill aims to encourage thriving legitimate businesses, driving illicit financial activities out of the country. This approach signifies the government’s dedication to maintaining economic integrity while offering a secure business platform.

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Government Outlines 2023-2026 Crypto Strategy Plans

In line with these changes, the government’s economic crime strategy for 2023-2026 includes stringent cryptocurrency regulations. When unveiling this strategy, officials disclosed plans to implement the Financial Action Task Force’s Travel Rule. This rule applies to virtual asset service providers and financial institutions handling digital asset transactions, fortifying defenses against money laundering and terrorist financing.

The government’s commitment reflects an understanding that effective, fair crypto regulation benefits all parties, including consumers and businesses. This balanced regulation will combat fraud and other financial crimes in the burgeoning crypto industry.

Read Also: Senator Cynthia Lummis Calls for Binance and Tether’s Prosecution

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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.

Why Trust CoinGape

CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights Read more…to our readers. Our journal 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.

About Author
About Author
Maxwell is a crypto-economic analyst and Blockchain enthusiast, passionate about helping people understand the potential of decentralized technology. I write extensively on topics such as blockchain, cryptocurrency, tokens, and more for many publications. My goal is to spread knowledge about this revolutionary technology and its implications for economic freedom and social good.
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.