Subscribe now

Technology

UK intelligence agencies are investigating cryptocurrency transactions

Bitstamp, Europe's largest cryptocurrency exchange, says it has handed over information on some of its customers to the UK's intelligence agencies, MI5 and MI6

By Matthew Sparkes

25 February 2022

Bitcoin

Bitcoin has a variety of uses

Mete Caner Arican/Alamy

The UK’s intelligence agencies have asked Europe’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, Bitstamp, to hand over information on at least some of its customers. The news suggests that bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are being used in serious organised crime and terrorism, as well as domestic crime.

The Security Service, also known as MI5, is responsible for preventing terrorism and espionage within the UK, while the Secret Intelligence Service, commonly known as MI6, is tasked with foreign intelligence. Neither organisation tackles ordinary crime, unless there is a…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox! We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

View introductory offers

No commitment, cancel anytime*

Offer ends 2nd of July 2024.

*Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on unserved issues.

Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)

or

Existing subscribers

Sign in to your account