Ireland launches 30-point plan to curb crypto crime
On June 18 Ireland unveiled a National Risk Assessment and a 30-point action plan to tighten oversight of crypto-assets and curb money laundering and terrorist financing.
On June 18, Ireland published a National Risk Assessment and a 30-point action plan to strengthen oversight of crypto-assets and limit money laundering and terrorist financing across its financial system.
The package, announced by Tánaiste and Minister for Finance Simon Harris and Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan, targets digital finance platforms, opaque corporate ownership and other channels used by cross-border criminal networks.
Measures include enhanced safeguards for digital assets, tougher supervision of crypto trading platforms, stricter rules on corporate ownership transparency and stronger anti-money-laundering controls for the gambling sector. The plan also calls for increased intelligence sharing and closer coordination among financial crime investigators, tax authorities and customs officials.
Enforcement will be carried out through joint operations that bring together government ministries, the Central Bank, the Revenue Commissioners and An Garda Síochána. Officials said the regulatory framework for digital assets will be reviewed and updated through 2026 to respond to technological change and shifts in criminal tactics.
Harris warned that criminals are using new technology and cross-border structures to change tactics rapidly. He added, “Financial crime is not a victimless crime. Behind every fraud, scam and money laundering operation, there are real victims — older people losing their savings, families being defrauded and communities harmed by criminal activity.”
O’Callaghan described the assessment and action plan as a practical blueprint to align regulators, industry and law enforcement. He noted the strategy aims to close loopholes from emerging technologies while maintaining Ireland’s position as a secure jurisdiction for international business.
The risk assessment warns that global financial networks face evolving risks as criminals use digital tools to move illicit funds. Officials said the combined preventive and operational steps are designed to limit misuse of crypto-assets while supporting legitimate digital finance activity.
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