Algeria’s crypto ban law has actually criminalized all cryptocurrency activities nationwide, and it’s implementing some pretty severe penalties under new anti-money laundering regulations. The crypto regulation crackdown is targeting VPN crypto trading ban violations, along with illegal crypto mining Algeria operations, and also anti-money laundering crypto enforcement with up to one year in prison and even $7,700 fines.

Chainalysis 2024 MENA regulatory report
Chainalysis 2024 MENA regulatory report – Source: Chainalysis

Algeria Crypto Ban Targets VPN Trading, Mining, and Promotion Laws

algeria flag in the wind with crypto coin ban
algeria flag in the wind with crypto coin ban – Source: Watcher.Guru

The Algeria crypto ban law that was passed on July 24 actually defines cryptocurrency as financial property and treats usage as criminal offenses under counter-terrorism rules. This crypto regulation crackdown encompasses Bitcoin, Tether, and all digital wallets, making even holding crypto illegal right now.

The sweeping VPN crypto trading ban specifically targets popular global platforms that are accessed through VPNs. Citizens who previously used peer-to-peer methods and foreign exchanges now face prosecution under the illegal crypto mining Algeria provisions.

Also Read: SEC: Crypto ETFs Can Create, Redeem Shares using BTC, ETH

Criminal Penalties and Enforcement

Source: The Chain Bulletin

Algeria crypto ban law violators are facing up to one year imprisonment and fines reaching $7,700. The anti-money laundering crypto regulations extend penalties to platforms, wallet providers, and also promoters who facilitate digital asset activities.

Algeria’s financial and security agencies are coordinating enforcement both online and offline right now. The crypto regulation crackdown represents an escalation from the country’s 2018 restrictions, when citizens still accessed markets through alternative methods.

Government Justification

algeria government meeting banning VPN crypto trade
Algeria’s government meeting banning VPN crypto trade – Source: Fanack.com

Authorities are justifying the VPN crypto trading ban and illegal crypto mining Algeria prohibitions as protecting financial stability and reducing crime. The anti-money laundering crypto measures align with FATF standards for preventing terrorism financing.

Critics warn the Algeria crypto ban law could actually stifle innovation in a region where the country was among the fastest-growing crypto markets. The approach rejects regulatory frameworks that other nations are adopting.

Also Read: US Senator’s Mortgage Bill Recognizes Crypto in Loan Eligibility

Algeria joins nations choosing total prohibition over regulation, implementing immediate enforcement across financial institutions and internet providers to detect crypto activities under the new crypto regulation crackdown measures at the time of writing.