Both the FBI and the U.S. Justice Department are making moves in the crypto space. Recent high-profile victories offered the necessary incentive for both organizations to take action. Reuters reports that the Justice Department hired “a seasoned computer crimes prosecutor” as their new crypto zar. For their part, the “FBI is launching a unit for blockchain analysis and virtual asset seizure.” Both moves are a clear indication of the U.S.’s newfound attitude towards cryptocurrencies. The Justice Department’s New Crypto Czar The U.S. Justice Department’s National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team (NCET) has a new leader. The chosen one is Ms. Eun Young Choi, “a prosecutor who led the case against a Russian hacker who helped steal information about more than 80 million JPMorgan & Chase Co customers.” In the Justice Department’s press release, they quote Director Choi: “The NCET will play a pivotal role in ensuring that as the technology surrounding digital assets grows and evolves, the department in turn accelerates and expands its efforts to combat their illicit abuse by criminals of all kinds. I am excited to lead the NCET’s incredible and talented team of attorneys, and to get to work on this important priority for the department.” At Young Choi’s announcement, Reuter quotes Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco warning criminals of their organization’s aims: “We are issuing a clear warning to criminals who use cry...
