TLDR
- Vladimir Putin approved legislation enabling authorities to seize cryptocurrency during criminal proceedings.
- Digital currencies receive classification as intangible property within the Russian legal system.
- Law enforcement must record cryptocurrency type, amount, and wallet addresses during seizures.
- Physical devices including hardware wallets, computers, and servers can be confiscated in investigations.
- Seized cryptocurrency may be moved into wallets controlled by government entities.
President [[LINK_START_0]]Vladimir Putin[[LINK_END_0]] has approved legislation granting authorities the power to seize cryptocurrency during criminal proceedings. The new statute provides digital currencies with official status as “intangible property” while establishing formal confiscation powers for courts. This legislation introduces standardized procedures for freezing, documenting, and transferring digital assets throughout investigative processes.
Legal Framework Established for Digital Asset Confiscation
The legislation categorizes [[LINK_START_1]]cryptocurrency[[LINK_END_1]] as property within criminal procedure regulations. Consequently, investigators gain authority to freeze holdings and incorporate them into official case documentation. Courts can mandate confiscation to fulfill criminal sentences or resolve civil disputes. Authorities receive permission to assume control over wallets and associated hardware devices.
Law enforcement personnel must document the category and volume of confiscated cryptocurrency. Wallet addresses associated with suspects must appear in official records. Officers receive authority to confiscate servers, computing equipment, and hardware wallets connected to suspected criminal activity. When feasible, officials may relocate digital coins into government-managed wallets.
The statute permits collaboration with international exchanges throughout investigations. Authorities can request foreign platforms to freeze or repatriate assets. Executive departments will publish storage and management guidelines at a later date. The regulations become enforceable ten days following official publication.
Government representatives stated the framework establishes an organized seizure mechanism. Clear documentation becomes mandatory before any asset transfer takes place. Agencies must safeguard digital assets in forms they can control. The legislation seeks to create uniform enforcement methods throughout the nation.
Digital Currency Access Faces Restrictions Under Emerging Regulations
Russia intends to complete a comprehensive national cryptocurrency framework by July 1, 2026. The system will merge investor restrictions with enhanced platform licensing requirements. Investors without qualified status will encounter a 300,000 ruble purchasing limitation. Market access will emphasize liquid tokens such as Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Qualified investors will operate without volume restrictions according to the proposal. Regulators will prohibit them from accessing privacy-focused coins, including Monero, Zcash, and Dash. Exchanges and brokerage firms must secure licenses before the July 2026 deadline. Authorities may restrict access to unlicensed platforms following that date.
Beginning July 1, 2027, unlicensed intermediary operations may result in criminal prosecution. Courts could deliver prison sentences reaching up to seven years. Domestic cryptocurrency transactions remain forbidden under current regulations. Unauthorized transactions may result in monetary penalties and asset forfeiture starting in 2026.
Meanwhile, authorities will permit cross-border settlements utilizing digital assets. Commercial entities may employ cryptocurrencies and stablecoins for international trade operations. Individuals holding foreign exchange accounts must file reports with the Federal Tax Service. Investigators will continue requiring connections between wallets and specific suspects during legal proceedings.
Get 3 Free Stock Ebooks
Discover top-performing stocks in AI, Crypto, and Technology with expert analysis.
- Top 10 AI Stocks - Leading AI companies
- Top 10 Crypto Stocks - Blockchain leaders
- Top 10 Tech Stocks - Tech giants
