German authorities have confiscated $28 million in cash and 13 crypto ATMs in a coordinated nationwide operation aimed at curbing unlicensed activities.
The latest action, spearheaded by the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin), is part of a broader initiative to strengthen oversight within the country’s rapidly expanding crypto market.
The operation, conducted in collaboration with law enforcement and the German central bank, highlights Germany’s commitment to mitigating the risks associated with unregulated financial activities, particularly those involving digital assets.
Unlicensed ATMs
The sting was carried out on Aug. 20 and targeted 35 locations where crypto ATMs were reportedly being operated without the necessary licensing.
In an official statement, BaFin highlighted the severity of the risks posed by these unlicensed ATMs, which are often used to conduct scams, fraud, and money laundering.
The regulator reaffirmed its dedication to protecting the integrity of the German financial system and emphasized that the crackdown aligns with ongoing efforts to enforce compliance and enhance consumer protection in the evolving digital finance landscape.
BaFin added that operators found to be in violation of licensing requirements face severe legal consequences, including the possibility of up to five years in prison. The operation marks a significant step in Germany’s broader strategy to regulate the crypto market and prevent its exploitation for criminal purposes.
Regulatory scrutiny
Crypto ATMs, which enable users to buy and sell cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin with cash or debit cards, fall under the jurisdiction of Germany’s Banking Act. This law requires operators to obtain proper authorization from BaFin to ensure regulatory compliance.
However, the lack of clear legal guidelines for these machines has raised concerns about their potential use in illegal activities, including money laundering and the financing of terrorism.
In addition to concerns over legal compliance, German officials warned that crypto ATMs could become hotspots for criminal activities if operators do not enforce adequate Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols, particularly for transactions exceeding 10,000 euros.
Germany’s recent actions align with a broader trend of increased scrutiny on crypto ATMs, which have faced regulatory challenges worldwide. Several governments have begun implementing stricter regulations to address the potential risks associated with these machines, including money laundering and fraud.
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