The Volatility and Legality of Cryptocurrency Transactions
Bitcoin, the flagship cryptocurrency, peaked at nearly $20,000 per coin in 2017 before plummeting below $5,300 by August 2018. Despite predictions of its demise, Bitcoin rebounded to around $10,000 by September 2019, reflecting the enduring popularity of virtual currency trading in China.
👉 Wondering how to protect your crypto assets? Learn more here
Is Cryptocurrency Trading Legal?
While no explicit laws prohibit individual cryptocurrency transactions, regulatory frameworks target platforms and issuers. A 2018 joint notice by Chinese authorities warned against illegal fundraising under the guise of "virtual currency" or "blockchain" but acknowledged Bitcoin as legitimate private property. This creates a gray area: peer-to-peer trading remains legal, but risks persist due to cryptocurrencies' anonymity, often exploited for money laundering.
Common Risks for Traders:
- Account Freezes: Receiving "black money" (funds linked to crimes like fraud) can trigger freezes, even if the sender acted in good faith.
- Delayed Resolutions: Frozen accounts often languish for months or years, with multiple agencies potentially imposing sequential freezes.
Case Study: Unfreezing a 2 Million RMB Account
Our legal team recently assisted an investor whose account was frozen for 7 months (with one renewal) involving over 2 million RMB. Key steps included:
- Evidence Collection: Detailed transaction records and legal documentation.
- Strategic Negotiation: Coordinating with investigators and submitting legal opinions.
- Successful Outcome: Full account restoration.
Proactive Measures for Investors
If your account is frozen:
Contact Your Bank to identify:
- Freezing authority
- Case reference number
- Freeze duration and amount
- Gather Evidence: Transaction histories, communications, and KYC records.
- Seek Expert Help: Engage a legal team specializing in blockchain and digital assets.
👉 Need urgent legal assistance for frozen funds? Click here
FAQs
Q: Can I recover funds if my account was frozen years ago?
A: Yes, but immediate action improves success odds. Statutes of limitations vary by case.
Q: Will trading on offshore platforms prevent freezes?
A: No. Chinese banks may freeze accounts receiving suspicious transfers, regardless of the platform.
Q: How long do freezes typically last?
A: Initial freezes span 6 months (renewable indefinitely). Timely legal intervention can expedite releases.
Q: Are small transactions safer?
A: Not necessarily. Even minor amounts linked to illicit activities trigger freezes.
Q: Should I visit the police station if my account is frozen?
A: Only with legal counsel. Unprepared interactions may escalate scrutiny.
Conclusion
Cryptocurrency trading carries inherent risks, but knowledge and preparedness mitigate them. Always document transactions and consult experts at the first sign of trouble.