security
US Seizes Over $25 Million in Cryptocurrency in Anti-Fraud Operations
US authorities have seized more than $25 million in cryptocurrency linked to international fraud schemes targeting US and Canadian residents. The seizures are part of a broader effort that has recovered over $800 million since 2025.
AS1 NewsSource: justice.gov
The US Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, in collaboration with the US Secret Service Washington Field Office, announced the seizure of over $25 million in cryptocurrency connected to multiple international fraud schemes. These operations targeted residents in the US and Canada, with investigations revealing complex laundering networks and thousands of victims misled into fraudulent investment schemes.
This enforcement action is part of the Scam Center Strike Force, launched in 2025, which has recovered more than $800 million to date. The recent seizures stem from five civil forfeiture complaints filed in US District Court, targeting illicit funds traced through various laundering networks, primarily based in Southeast Asia, with IP addresses in China, Malaysia, and Cambodia.
The investigations involved tracing suspicious transactions reported by Canadian authorities and private sector partners, revealing schemes such as online romance scams and fraudulent investment platforms. Authorities identified and froze funds across multiple cryptocurrency addresses, with the total targeted amount exceeding $25 million.
Law enforcement officials emphasized ongoing efforts to dismantle these criminal networks and urged victims or individuals suspecting fraud to contact the US Secret Service. The investigations continue, with authorities working to identify and apprehend the suspects behind these schemes.
This crackdown highlights the persistent challenges of crypto-related fraud and the importance of international cooperation in combating illicit financial activities involving cryptocurrencies. The case underscores the ongoing risks for crypto users and the need for vigilance and security in digital asset transactions.
The enforcement actions demonstrate ongoing efforts to combat crypto fraud and may influence regulatory and security practices within the crypto sector.