Chinese money laundering networks dominate global activity

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January 30, 2026 at 12:30 AM

Overview

According to Infosecurity Magazine, Chinese money laundering networks have become a major force in the global cryptocurrency landscape, handling about 20% of all illicit crypto funds over the past five years. This activity has contributed to a staggering increase in crypto-based money laundering, which is projected to grow from $10 billion in 2020 to over $82 billion by 2025. This trend raises significant concerns for law enforcement and regulatory agencies worldwide, as it indicates that organized crime is increasingly using digital currencies to obscure the origins of their funds. The implications of this growth are profound, affecting financial systems and potentially facilitating a range of illegal activities, from drug trafficking to human trafficking. As these networks expand, it becomes crucial for governments and financial institutions to strengthen their measures against money laundering and enhance their oversight of cryptocurrency transactions.

Key Takeaways

Affected Systems: Cryptocurrency systems and networks
Action Required: Governments and financial institutions should enhance regulations and monitoring of cryptocurrency transactions.
Timeline: Ongoing since 2020

Original Article Summary

Infosecurity Magazine reports that Chinese money laundering networks processed a fifth of all illicit cryptocurrency proceeds over the past five years, driving the global crypto-based laundering ecosystem's growth from $10 billion in 2020 to more than $82 billion in 2025.

Impact

Cryptocurrency systems and networks

Exploitation Status

The exploitation status is currently unknown. Monitor vendor advisories and security bulletins for updates.

Timeline

Ongoing since 2020

Remediation

Governments and financial institutions should enhance regulations and monitoring of cryptocurrency transactions.

Additional Information

This threat intelligence is aggregated from trusted cybersecurity sources. For the most up-to-date information, technical details, and official vendor guidance, please refer to the original article linked below.

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