Cryptocurrency Compliance

When talking about cryptocurrency compliance, the set of rules, processes and reporting standards that crypto platforms must follow to stay legal and trustworthy. Also known as crypto compliance, it touches everything from user onboarding to transaction monitoring and helps protect both businesses and investors.

Key Pillars and Global Frameworks

The compliance landscape rests on a few core pillars. First, KYC, "Know Your Customer" procedures that verify user identity and source of funds. Second, AML, Anti‑Money‑Laundering controls that flag suspicious activity and enforce reporting. Both are enforced by the FATF, the Financial Action Task Force, which sets international standards like the Travel Rule. In Europe, the MiCAR, the Markets in Crypto‑Assets Regulation, creates a unified legal framework for tokens, issuers and service providers. Together they form a network: cryptocurrency compliance requires robust KYC, AML relies on FATF guidance, and MiCAR codifies these expectations for European markets.

Real‑world examples show why each piece matters. Upbit’s $34 billion penalty for KYC failures highlights how gaps can trigger massive fines. Qatar’s institutional ban demonstrates the impact of strict national policies. Meanwhile, Norway’s mining data‑center registration shows that compliance isn’t just about trading—energy use and environmental reporting are part of the puzzle too. Across the board, exchanges like btcShark and GJ Crypto face scrutiny because they miss key compliance checkpoints. For anyone building or using crypto services, understanding these rules matters whether you’re a trader in Iran bypassing sanctions or a developer launching a new token.

Below you’ll find a curated collection of articles that dig into these topics: from detailed reviews of exchanges struggling with compliance, to country‑specific policy overviews, to a 2025 global KYC/AML guide. Each piece offers actionable tips, risk assessments, and the latest regulatory news, so you can stay ahead of audits, avoid penalties, and build trust with your users.