Archive · 22 Aug 2025
US DOJ Shifts Crypto Stance, Won't Target Software Developers
The US government is changing its mind about how it treats cryptocurrency developers.
The Justice Department is going to stop going after people who create the software for crypto platforms, as long as they didn't mean to do anything wrong.
This is because writing code itself isn't a crime.
This is a big deal for the crypto world.
It shows that the government's view on crypto is evolving.
In the past, they were more strict, but now they are easing up a bit.
The government has also stopped a team that was focused on crypto and the SEC has also backed off some cases.
This shift comes after past cases where developers were charged for not following money transmitter rules, which are meant to prevent money laundering.
The US Justice Department will no longer target software developers of decentralized crypto platforms.
This shift represents a changing view on cryptocurrency by the US government.
The DOJ will move away from charging developers for failing to register as money transmitters.
This stance contrasts with a recent case involving Tornado Cash's co-founder.
The DOJ has disbanded its crypto enforcement team.
- Who
- The U.S. Justice Department.
- What
- The US DOJ will not target software developers who create decentralized platforms for transmitting cryptocurrencies.
- When
- Announced on Thursday.
- Where
- Wyoming (at a crypto summit).
- Why
- To signal a change in the government's view on cryptocurrency.
Critics of the New Policy
Supporters of the New Policy
Money Laundering Concerns vs. Code Creation
Critics of the New Policy
Critics believe that crypto platforms enable illegal activity.
Supporters of the New Policy
Supporters say that creating code itself is not a crime.
- Key Figure
- Matthew Galeotti (Acting Assistant Attorney General of DOJ)
- Policy Shift
- DOJ will not bring charges over failure to register as a money transmitter
- Past Case Example
- Tornado Cash co-founder found guilty of conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money transmitting business.
- Previous Approach
- DOJ under Biden administration brought charges in Tornado Cash case.
- Current Action
- DOJ has disbanded its crypto enforcement team.