CRYPTOCURRENCY
Crypto News
The definition of a cryptocurrency is a digital asset containing cryptographic protocols that make transactions secure and immutable. Cryptocurrencies are built on top of distributed ledger technology, blockchain — which allows it to be decentralized and immune to government control and interference. Transactions involving cryptocurrencies involve public and private keys, enabling minimal processing fees, allowing users to be able to make transfers without traditional third-party institutions.
The definition of a cryptocurrency is a digital asset containing cryptographic protocols that make transactions secure and immutable. Cryptocurrencies are built on top of distributed ledger technology, blockchain — which allows it to be decentralized and immune to government control and interference. Transactions involving cryptocurrencies involve public and private keys, enabling minimal processing fees, allowing users to be able to make transfers without traditional third-party institutions.
US Crypto Crackdown Could Stifle Innovation and Weaken Dollar
The recent Wells notice issued by the SEC to Coinbase, along with other legal threats against crypto firms, has raised concerns among industry experts that the US crackdown on cryptocurrencies could stifle innovation and weaken the dollar. Some believe that the regulatory environment in the US is driving jobs, investment, and innovation offshore, to countries like Singapore, Hong Kong, and potentially Australia.
Binance Insider Allegedly Helps Users Bypass KYC Security Protocols
A report by CNBC alleges that employees and volunteers at Binance have been helping customers in China bypass the exchange's Know Your Customer Controls (KYC). The report points to Binance's Chinese-language chat rooms where users can access shared messages on techniques to bypass KYC, residency, and verification protocols allegedly coming from Binance employees or trained volunteers known as "Angels."
Independent Reserve Considers Expansion to Hong Kong
Independent Reserve, an Australia-based cryptocurrency exchange, is exploring opportunities to expand its business in Hong Kong following the city’s recent proposal of a licensing regime for crypto exchanges. The company sees Hong Kong as a potential friendly jurisdiction for its business expansion in Asia.
Kraken Halts ACH Deposits and Withdrawals via Silvergate
Kraken has notified its users that it will no longer support ACH deposits and withdrawals via Silvergate starting from March 27, citing difficulties with the automated clearing house. Kraken has advised its users to use alternative funding options until ACH funding is available again.
Banking crisis could push cryptocurrency regulation into gray area
Circle CEO Jeremy Allaire believes that the ongoing global banking crisis could lead to more uncertainty and gray area in the regulation of cryptocurrencies due to market anxiety over exposure to the US financial system and the risk of a large-scale banking system failure.
Former OneCoin Executive Charged with Fraud
Irina Dilkinska, a former executive of fraudulent cryptocurrency scheme OneCoin, has been charged with wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering. Dilkinska faces up to 40 years in prison and is accused of aiding in the laundering of over $400 million of OneCoin's proceeds.
Visa Reports Record-Breaking Cryptocurrency Thefts in 2022
Visa's biannual threat report reveals that over $3 billion was stolen in cryptocurrency thefts in 2022, with token bridges being a common target. The report also details a phishing campaign targeting crypto exchanges.
Bitzlato Partially Restores User Access
Bitzlato, a Russia-linked cryptocurrency exchange, has enabled its users to withdraw up to 50% of their assets stuck on the platform due to enforcement from the United States and Europol, with the help of a Telegram bot.
MetaMask Enables Direct Bank Transfers for Crypto Purchases in Nigeria
MetaMask, a major crypto wallet, has partnered with MoonPay to enable direct bank transfers for crypto purchases in Nigeria, allowing users to access crypto faster and cheaper without using credit or debit cards. Nigeria is a major market for MetaMask, despite current issues with crypto on-ramps in the country.
Australian Banks Ordered to Report Crypto Transactions
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has ordered local banks to report on cryptocurrency transactions amid concerns over the contagion of recent banking collapses, including that of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB). The regulator is seeking more information and insight into banking exposures to crypto assets and associated risks.