Disclaimer: Information found on CryptoreNews is those of writers quoted. It does not represent the opinions of CryptoreNews on whether to sell, buy or hold any investments. You are advised to conduct your own research before making any investment decisions. Use provided information at your own risk.
CryptoreNews covers fintech, blockchain and Bitcoin bringing you the latest crypto news and analyses on the future of money.
Criminals Increasingly Utilize Bitcoin, Monero, and USDT, According to Bloomberg, 2026/02/12 11:53:58
Criminals are increasingly utilizing Bitcoin, Monero, and USDT for transactions and money laundering. This was reported by experts surveyed by Bloomberg, who indicated that the choice of asset is influenced by liquidity, anonymity levels, and transaction costs.
According to their assessment, cartels and related entities are incorporating digital assets into financial schemes, circumventing traditional control mechanisms and expanding operations through couriers and freelancers.
Analysts point out that the choice of tool is task-dependent:
-
Bitcoin is favored for its high liquidity;
-
Monero is appealing due to its anonymity;
-
USDT on the Tron network is chosen for its low fees and the ability to split transfers.
Concurrently, the communication infrastructure is evolving. Participants in these schemes are moving to messaging platforms such as Signal, Telegram, WhatsApp, and WeChat, where it is more challenging for law enforcement to intercept messages and identify individuals.
Related Posts
One of the drivers behind the use of cryptocurrencies, according to analysts, is Chinese brokerage networks. They have established a faster and cheaper alternative to traditional money laundering schemes. In these models, cartels act as cash suppliers, while demand is generated by clients seeking to obtain dollars and bypass currency restrictions.
The increase in operations is linked to the proliferation of stablecoins, which mitigate the impact of volatility and make transactions more predictable.
Experts state that law enforcement agencies are facing shortages in personnel, access to data, and analytical tools. Effective investigations require information about wallets and devices, which agencies do not fully possess.
Former head of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Derek Maltz stated that agencies were unprepared for the scale of illegal activity.
A representative from the American branch of the international anti-corruption organization Transparency International, Scott Greytak, noted that lawmakers underestimate the risks posed by the established crypto ecosystem.
Previously, analysts from PeckShield reported that losses from hacks and thefts related to cryptocurrencies are expected to reach $4.04 billion by 2025, which is a 34% increase compared to the 2024 figure.
