In Move to Combat Online Crimes, Thailand Targets Unlicensed Crypto Exchanges

Last Updated on April 22, 2024

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Key Takeaways:

  • Thailand’s SEC Targets Unlicensed Exchanges: Thailand is set to block unlicensed crypto exchanges as part of efforts to combat money laundering and other illicit activities, following similar actions by neighboring countries.
  • SEC Advisory for Investors: The Thai SEC has advised investors to withdraw assets from non-compliant platforms and verify the registration status of crypto exchanges using the SEC’s “Check First” application.
  • Global Regulatory Trends: The crackdown on unregulated crypto activities is part of a broader trend, with Europe also preparing to implement new rules that could significantly impact decentralized finance protocols.

Following the footsteps of India and the PhilippinesThailand has announced a decisive measure against unlicensed crypto exchanges.

The Thai government aims to block these exchanges in a bid to tackle money laundering and other online criminal activities.

This decision, mirroring actions taken by neighboring countries, underscores a regional commitment to stringent regulatory compliance in the digital economy.

The Thai Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is set to deliver a comprehensive list of unlicensed crypto trading platforms to the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society.

This directive was revealed by SEC Secretary-General Pornanong Budsaratragoon during the Technology Crime Prevention and Suppression Committee meeting held on April 19.

In light of these regulations, the Thai SEC has advised cryptocurrency investors to withdraw their assets from non-compliant platforms before the restrictions are enforced.

A statement from the SEC emphasized the risks associated with unregulated services, including scams and potential involvement in money laundering.

Investors are encouraged to verify the registration status of crypto platforms using the SEC’s Check First application, which recently indicated that the popular exchange Binance is yet to register and may face closure in Thailand.

Further investigations reveal that other prominent offshore exchanges, such as CoinbaseKuCoinKraken, and OKX, also lack legal operation statuses in Thailand, as per government records.

The tightening of crypto regulations is not limited to Asia. In Europe, heightened regulatory scrutiny could impact non-decentralized protocols.

About The Author

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News Reporter

Victor Fawole, a seasoned Web3 content creator and social media influencer, excels in bringing the pulse of the crypto world to our readers.

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