Bitcoin Forum

[Update Feb 19, 2014:

This thread is no longer being updated all that much. As Bitcoin further permeates the world, most every nation (or state, etc.) will have content specific to that jurisdiction's involvement with Bitcoin.   Feel free to continue posting as you wish, but this thread will no longer be even close to being a comprehensive list as it had been for a period of time.

Other resources:

 - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legality_of_bitcoin_by_country [Added Sep 3, 2015]
 - http://coincenter.org/2015/06/tracking-bitcoin-regulation-state-by-state [Added Sep 3, 2015]
 - http://www.coindesk.com/regulation [Added Sep 3, 2015]
 - http://merkletree.io (formerly bitlegal.io I think)  [Added Sep 7, 2015]
 - http://www.cryptocoinlaw.net
 - http://twitter.com/virtuallylaw
 - http://BitcoinFoundation.org
 - http://coindesk.com
 - http://datauthority.org (info: http://coindesk.com/bitcoin-industry-leaders-launch-data-a-self-regulatory-body)
 - http://bitcoinfinancialassociation.org
 - http://en.bitcoin.it/wiki/Compilation_of_legal_and_regulatory_information
]

This list is to serve as an index to all the events in which Bitcoin-related topics interact with the courts, police, regulators, etc.

This is similar to how the NEW Articles in the Press Forum thread serves as an index to media mentions.

Topics related to regulations, taxes, etc. are also cataloged in a Bitcoin.it Wiki article:

Compilation of legal and regulatory information
 - http://en.bitcoin.it/wiki/Compilation_of_legal_and_regulatory_information

I'm hoping for this thread to remain an index, mostly with just a brief summation and then links towards other threads and external sources -- rather than be where discussion for each index entry occurs.   If an entry is made, feel free to reply with a link to a relevant thread where further discussion occurs or to other related content.

Bitcoin in France: first legal decision directly related to Bitcoin?
Sep. 4, 2011
Location: France

Abstract: Mt. Gox fights for its right to hold a bank account in France.

 - http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=41317.0
 - http://creperso.free.fr/CIC/Ordonnance_de_refere_du_11_aout_2011.pdf (Municipal court decision)
 - http://creperso.free.fr/CIC/Arret_appel_26_aout_2011.pdf (Appeals court decision)

Press Release - TradeHill, Inc. Files Suit Against Dwolla, Inc.
Mar 6, 2012
Location: Suit filed in California, U.S.

Abstract: Dwolla allegedly reversed transactions. TradeHill asserts Dwolla promoted its service as being like cash with no chargebacks and sues for damages.


 - http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=67625.0

An interesting read about Bitcoin & legislation...
Oct. 26, 2011
Location: UK

Abstract: (Allegedly) the British regulator FSA responds to a question regarding Bitcoin's legal status as a monetary instrument.

 - http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=49862.0

Bitcoin FBI Report April 2012
May 8, 2012
Location: U.S. agency, International distribution

Abstract: (Allegedly) The FBI provides analysis of bitcoin for distribution to an international audience

 - http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=80114.0

Disclosure Group Investment Bitcoin barred by the CVM in Brazil
Jul. 25, 2012
Location: Brazil

Abstract: CVM (securities regulator in Brazil) decided that the Brazilian operator of a bitcoin-based "investment group" was violating securities law there and had to suspend the group.

 - http://www.bitcoinbrasil.com.br/?p=464
 - http://www.bitcoinmoney.com/post/28048708075
 - http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=95399.0

FinCEN - Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request:
"The application of money transmitter and foreign exchange ("forex") regulations to de-centralized, virtual currency."
Jun 29, 2012
Location: United States

Abstract: Gavin Andresen gets a response from FinCEN following a FOIA request:

 - http://dl.dropbox.com/u/38065353/FincenFOIA.pdf
 - http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=74922.msg1035436#msg1035436

Finanstilsynet - The Financial Supervisory Authority of Norway
RAPPORT RISIKO- OG SÅRBARHETSANALYSE (ROS)
March, 2012

Abstract: The financial supervisory authority of Norway publishes a Risk and Vulnerability analysis and references Bitcoin under "2.4.3 titled 'Shadow services on the internet'".  Includes only a description (an inaccurate one at that) of Bitcoin.

 - http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=96077.0
 - http://www.finanstilsynet.no/Global/Venstremeny/Rapport/2012/ROS-analyse_2011.pdf

Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada
Money Laundering and Terrorist Activity Financing Watch
April-June 2011

Abstract:

Mentions Bitcoin as "Bitcoins: a new anonymous digital currency and a potential vehicle for criminals to transfer money:"

English:
http://www.fintrac-canafe.gc.ca/publications/watch-regard/2011-10-eng.asp (http://www.fintrac-canafe.gc.ca/publications/watch-regard/2011-10-eng.asp)
French:
http://www.canafe-fintrac.gc.ca/publications/watch-regard/2011-10-fra.asp (http://www.canafe-fintrac.gc.ca/publications/watch-regard/2011-10-fra.asp)

Congressman Ron Paul's Final Domestic Monetary Policy Subcommittee Hearing
Aug 2, 2012
Location: United States

Abstract: Ron Paul's subcommittee met on August 2nd, 2012 to examine sound money and parallel currencies.

 - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oPCFKHCCKF0&feature=player_detailpage#t=2918s

Bitcoin touched on beginning around 48:38 and it was referred to in the context of being a barter currency.

Title: BRIAN CARTMELL et al VS. BITCOINICA LP, ALSO KNOWN AS BITCOINICA et al
Cause of Action: CONTRACT/WARRANTY
Case Number: CGC-12-522983
Location: Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco
August 6, 2012

Abstract: Suit to recover $460,458 in costs and damages from Bitcoinica.

 - http://webaccess.sftc.org/Scripts/Magic94/mgrqispi94.dll?APPNAME=IJS&PRGNAME=ROA22&ARGUMENTS=-ACGC12522983
 - http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-19244210

Bitcoin for campaign contributions passes muster with NH Deputy Secretary of State
August 29, 2012
Location: New Hampshire, U.S.

Abstract: NH State Representative Mark Warden consulted with NH Deputy Secretary of State regarding whether bitcoins can be a method for campaign donations.

 - http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=104544.0


Conclusion:

OK as long as:

1. Donations be accompanied by the donor's name and address, and
2. Contributions are acceptable only from US citizens and permanent residents.

BitFloor files complaint with FBI and Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).
September 6, 2012
Location: New York City, NY USA

Abstract: BitFloor suffered a security breach/hack in which about 24,000 BTC were stolen after access by the hacker was obtained to an unencrypted backup copy of the private keys hosted on BitFloor's systems.  The exchange is essentially insolvent as a result and remains shuttered, except for facilitating withdrawals for the funds that weren't stolen -- the U.S. dollar balances, none of which were impacted as a result of the security breach.

 - http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=106251.0

BaFin deems Bitcoin as "unit of account", financial service providers thus regulated by the Banking Act (KWG)
October, 2012
Location: Germany

Abstract: It appears that any business operating out of Germany (or, maybe even more broadly, a business with German customers) that holds customer's bitcoins is regulated as a bank (presumably, that means must obtain a banking license).   [Based on the translation to English from German, which may have changed the the meaning from the original, so this may be not completely accurate.]

The following appears to be the response to an inquiry sent to BaFin regarding bitcoins:



An article in which this was discussed:


http://translate.google.com/translate?sl=de&tl=en&js=n&prev=_t&hl=de&ie=UTF-8&layout=2&eotf=1&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.heise.de%2Fix%2Fartikel%2FWaehrungsrisiken-1723975.html&act=url

Statement by Päivi Heikkinen, department head of (Financial Markets Infrastructure) at Bank of Finland
September, 2012
Location: Finland

Abstract: A reporter asks if Bitcoin is illegal.  Ms. Heikkinen responds [Translated from Finnish] "Not at all, People can invest in and use any money they prefer."

Heikkinen: Not at all, People can invest in and use any money they prefer.
Heikkinen: Finland is a free country, after all.

 - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vYH1JH73pw#t=206s  <-- Enabled closed captioning [CC] at the bottom of the video.

Bitcoin - Currency of Cyberspace (Italian)
October, 2012
Location: Italy

Abstract: The domestic secret police / intelligence agency of Italy provides an overview of Bitcoin.  They highlight the ways in which Bitcoin either defeats or bypasses methods of control that regulators enjoy through the banking-system.  For instance, the UIGEA which helped eliminate sources of revenue for online gambling in the U.S. is not a deterrent to Bitcoin-based online gambling.

The report is a little over the top though ... [Is Bitcoin Magazine's choice of a Guy Fawkes mask for the cover of its initial issue] the announcement of the extension of the potential of the most insidious and dangerous group of cyberattivistists?

 - http://gnosis.aisi.gov.it/gnosis/Rivista31.nsf/ServNavig/11

Virtual Currency Schemes, by the European Central Bank (ECB)
October, 2012
Location: Europe

Abstract: This report presents includes a comprehensive look at Bitcoin and provides an assessment of the relevance of virtual currency schemes for central banks, paying attention mostly to schemes which are more open and linked to the real economy.  The assessment covers the stability of prices, of the financial system and of the payment system, looking also at the regulatory perspective. It also addresses reputational risk concerns.

Length: 55 Pages.

 - http://www.ecb.europa.eu/pub/pdf/other/virtualcurrencyschemes201210en.pdf
 - http://docs.google.com/viewer?url=www.ecb.europa.eu%2Fpub%2Fpdf%2Fother%2Fvirtualcurrencyschemes201210en.pdf  <-- In a web-viewer


Forum discussion of the report here:
 - http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=121186.0

Search and Seizure Warrant, by U.S. District Court (Middle District, TN)
September 13, 2012
Location: Franklin, TN, USA

Abstract: The U.S. Secret Service, investigating the Romney tax return extortion attempt, obtains a search warrant to allow for the seizure of Michael M. Brown's Bitcoin wallet.  They did seize much computer equipment, some personal effects and a notepaper containing passwords.

 - http://mbdonationfund.com/images/documents/search_warrant.pdf

Further discussion here:

- http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=123956.0

This one isn't about bitcoin itself, but bitcoin was mentioned as the currency used.

Australia court Silk Road
January, 2013
Location: Melbourne, Australia

Abstract: An Australian court hearing involving a man who admitted dealing drugs that were obtained through Silk Road using bitcoins as payment.


Secret website harboured drugs smorgasbord, court hears
 - http://www.bordermail.com.au/story/1270129/secret-website-harboured-drugs-smorgasbord-court-hears

Further discussion:

2013-01-31 bordermail.com.au - Secret website harboured drugs smorgasbord, court
 - http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=140111.0

Application of FinCEN’s Regulations to Persons Administering, Exchanging, or Using Virtual Currencies
March 18, 2013
Location: USA

Abstract: The U.S. Dept. of Treasury's FinCEN has provided its guidance relating to virtual currencies (presumably including Bitcoin).

 - http://www.fincen.gov/statutes_regs/guidance/html/FIN-2013-G001.html

Further discussion here:

FinCEN addresses Bitcoin
- http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=154672.0

Today, we are all money transmitters… (no, really!)
Patrick Murck, Bitcoin Foundation general counsel
 - https://bitcoinfoundation.org/blog/?p=152

Nice informative topic :) Keep it up buddy

Andy B

+1 this is nice :) keep up the good work!

Latess news, Fed is going after Dwolla and Freezing their Funds ...

Seizure Warrant - Funds in Dwolla account of Mutum Sigillum, LLC [Mt. Gox]
May 14, 2013
Location: USA

Abstract: The U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security (DHS) has seized funds in the accounts used by Mt. Gox at Dwolla and Wells Fargo.

 - http://cdn.arstechnica.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Mt-Gox-Dwolla-Warrant-5-14-13.pdf
 - http://bit.ly/12avA2p (pdf viewer on Google Docs)

Further discussion here:

MtGox account in the USA has been seized by the DHS?
- http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=205370.0

Feds reveal the search warrant used to seize Mt. Gox account
 - http://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2013/05/feds-reveal-the-search-warrant-that-seized-mt-gox-account

It's a forum thread, anyone with updates is free (and encouraged) to post!

Coinlab, Inc v. Mt. Gox KK et al
May 2, 2013
Location: Washington (U.S. District Court, Western Washington)

Abstract: COMPLAINT against defendant(s) Mt. Gox KK, Tibanne KKC filed by Coinlab, Inc.

 - http://ia601700.us.archive.org/8/items/gov.uscourts.wawd.192566/gov.uscourts.wawd.192566.docket.html

Further discussion here:

[MTGox Sued 5/2/2013] Statement Regarding Formal Complaint
 - http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=193999.0

CoinLab suing MtGox for $75 milliion
 - http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=193922.0

Massive Bitcoin Business Partnership Devolves Into $75 Million Lawsuit
 - http://gawker.com/massive-bitcoin-business-partnership-devolves-into-75-487857656

FinTRAC does not see the need to regulate several bitcoin exchange models:

http://pokerati.com/2013/05/canada-becomes-bitcoin-friendly/

Tangible Cryptography (FastCash4Bitcoins) Receives Notice From State
May 31, 2013
Location: Virginia, USA

Abstract: State of Virginia determines that Tangible Cryptography may be engaging in money transmission under Virginia law.

Tangible Cryptography suspends Bitcoin related transactions
 - http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=224057.0

Indictment - bitcoin-24.com funds in Commerzbank seized
March 25, 2013
Location: Germany

Abstract: In the investigation of the Berlin public prosecutor against the Internet portal www.bitcoin-24.com on suspicion of fraud in connection with the sale of the Internet currency "Bitcoin" seized 2,5kk €.

 - https://www.bundesanzeiger.de (search for "bitcoin")
 - https://i.imgur.com/d6sirvq.png (image of indictment)

Further discussion here:

Initiative to help Simon Hausdorf to clear things @ bitcoin-24
- https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=175123.0

Bitcoins have been repayed.
The seizure of the account has been lifted by the Public Prosecutor's Office in Berlin on May 31st.
But they cant pay out until the account in Poland is available.

That is rough.  The TC guys seemed to have a lawyer, too.

I've reviewed Virginia law for a client and it is very difficult to apply to a bitcoin transaction, or what I understand to be TC's business in general.  Title 6.2, Chapter 19's definition of "money" is very broad, but they do not define "transmission" at all.  Typically, transmission requires at least two customers in a transaction.  TC seems to only have one customer per transaction, so maybe VA's regulatory folks don't really understand what it is they do.

Go BTC! We're routing for you!  :)

http://www.forbes.com/sites/jonmatonis/2013/06/23/bitcoin-foundation-receives-cease-and-desist-order-from-california/

Scroll the embedded copy of the letter down for some entertaining incompetence. I especially enjoyed the copy/paste third-party webpage complete with Google adds for attorneys and an executive search firm "Don't have a CFO?"

It would be funnier if I wasn't paying these bumblefucks with my tax dollars.

Specifically:
 - http://www.scribd.com/doc/149335233/CA-State-Cease-and-Desist-May-30#page=1


The PDF is 11 pages, but that link isn't a direct link from the State, so there's no confirmation yet that's what the State sent.
 

Drug Enforcement Agency seizes Bitcoins
June 24, 2013
Location: Charleston, SC, USA

Abstract: Drug Enforcement Agency reports that bitcoins were seized from Eric Daniel Hughes AKA Casey Jones as a result of a violation of the Controlled Substances Act

Users Bitcoins Seized by DEA
 - http://letstalkbitcoin.com/post/53700133097/users-bitcoins-seized-by-dea

DEA Official Notice
 - http://www.forfeiture.gov/pdf/DEA/OfficialNotification.pdf

[Edit: Additional links and info from report by freedomno1:

]

No worries was just helping out I'll let you have that one  ;)
No need to duplicate although that might happen if enough articles appear maybe add a master index on page 1

Heh, well this list benefits from having many collaborators and any supporting data / links as well so your link to the forum thread is valued!
  

Ya, most of the entries so far are for the U.S., ... and there are a couple hundred nations in this world -- each likely to have an entry or three eventually.  So at some point an index for the most significant ones might be useful.  We're not anywhere near that yet though, I don't think.

I agree with you but this is bitcoin and I'm betting legal will grow exponentially soon enough from all the attention  ;)

An article from each country would fill pages
I hope our sources don't get deleted due to age it would be an ever increasing loss of data as age grows on the other hand it would ensure the most current news remains on the thread, I'm just thinking from an archival viewpoint.

I could use multiple sourcing to confirm it but the abstract would only relate to one article the rest would be similar related articles as supplements an example being the first article relates to the difficulty of financial regulations in Canada with regards to major banks across exchanges.

The second example which illustrates the problem of uncertainty would be the libertybit as one of the Canadian exchanges ceased trading.

By extension Libertybit could be its own topic as it is related to the main issue

What I meant by duplication was specifying similar issues affecting all sources so an index on issue type and country would sort that error.
Example: Country Canada Subtopic Regulations then Exchanges Liberty-bit


I added two from Canada to diversify the thread

RBC shuts down Ottawa Bitcoin account
 
The Montreal head office of RBC, in Place Ville Marie. (file photo)
Published on April 29, 2013
The Canadian Press ~ OBJ  

Abstract: The company is one of several Bitcoin dealers struggling to navigate financial regulations that don't account for virtual currencies, and to cope with major banks shutting down their accounts without explanation.

http://www.obj.ca/Local/2013-04-29/article-3229285/RBC-shuts-down-Ottawa-Bitcoin-account/1
http://www.coindesk.com/libertybit-exchange-ceases-trading/

Revenue Canada says BitCoins aren't tax exempt
Just in time for tax season, the Canada Revenue Agency says the users of Bitcoins will have to pay tax on transactions in the upstart digital currency.
CBC News Posted: Apr 26, 2013
Location: Canada

Abstract: The CRA told the CBC there are two separate tax rules that apply to the electronic currency, depending on whether they are used as money to buy things or if they were merely bought and sold for speculative purposes.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/business/story/2013/04/26/business-bitcoin-tax.html

A little update:
A part of FIAT has been paid out.
Looks like the first closed exchange that pays out completely.

(Status: No reply = Source wins)
https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=244524.0

German government relieves capital gains tax on bitcoin positions
Published On June 27, 2013
Location: Germany

Abstract: Bitcoin transactions in Germany have been made exempt from capital gains tax after one year In Germany, assets such as stocks and bonds are subject to a 25% capital gains tax (plus a solidarity surcharge) and a state-dependant church tax. With the new decision, bitcoins having been held for more than a year will not be subject to these charges.

Source: http://www.coindesk.com/german-government-relieves-capital-gains-tax-on-bitcoin-positions/

Quoted from 600watt


Additional Sourcing
http://bitcoinmagazine.com/a-recap-of-mega-corporate-and-government-attention-on-bitcoin-this-past-year/

Bitcoins are a Unit of Value in Germany – Germany’s financial supervisory authority, Bafin, has published a report (translation of relevant text here) delineating their status under German law. The document has the following to state on the subject: “tokens of value meant to be used as a method of payment which are issued by barter-clubs, private exchange-rings or other payment systems in exchange for real economic goods or services or like for example Bitcoins, which are issued in computer networks without any service in return, are therefore exempt from the definition of e-money, even though they fulfill the same economic function as e-money and have the actual potential of privately issued currencies.” The legal concept of e-money in Germany applies only to instruments that ultimately derive from legal tender currencies, and so Bitcoin is effectively classified as a commodity. Incidentally, this is similar to the way more recent government decisions have treated Bitcoin donations – as an “in kind” donation of material but not monetary form, similar to donating food or supplies. Note that classification as a commodity does not exempt Bitcoin transactions from taxation; in most jurisdictions, barter income is taxable too.

https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=66774.msg952802#msg952802;action=printpage


http://www.cryptocoinsnews.com/2013/06/28/german-government-relieves-capital-gains-tax-on-bitcoin-positions/

In online exchanges like bitcoin.de or mtgox.com, 100 bitcoins could be acquired in mid-2012 for about 550 euros. Today, the same amount is worth about 7600 euros. In the event of a sale after more than twelve months, where the gain is about 7000 euros, the flat tax would would come into effect at 1750 euros.
Legally, the purchase and sale of bitcoin is a private sale transaction under Section 23 paragraph 1 sentence 2 of the Income Tax Act, which (according to section 2, paragraph 1, sentence 1, No. 7 Income Tax Act) is classed as income tax. The legal requirement is to collect on these transactions only if the period “between buying and selling is no longer than one year.” Bitcoins are enjoying increasing popularity in the Internet community, but also as a playground for speculators. They allow for the payment of goods and services on the Internet without the need for a traditional bank account or a credit card. More than 2,000 companies and organizations worldwide accept the digital money now.

It is also worth noting that the German capital gains tax does not apply to mining bitcoins. It only applies to stocks, bonds, etc, that have been purchased with the intention of market speculation. Since mining bitcoins is essentially creating value, normal income tax would be applied.

Legal Note
No clarification from bernard75 was given regarding the accuracy as such argument considered moot
That said this reference link will be left
http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Privates_Ver%C3%A4u%C3%9Ferungsgesch%C3%A4ft)

No, this doesnt belong here and is wrong, too.
Its not the capital gains tax its exempt from.
But its true that after holding BTC for over 1 year the profit is tax free.

An update to this:



 - http://www.coindesk.com/man-charged-after-demanding-bitcoin-for-mitt-romney-tax-returns
 - http://www.forbes.com/sites/robertwood/2013/06/27/indictment-in-bitcoin-bidding-scheme-for-mitt-romneys-tax-returns

Vitalik Buterin published a great summary of regulatory actions for 2013 to-date:
 - http://bitcoinmagazine.com/regulatory-responses-to-bitcoin-2013-edition

I'm not sure why you'ld claim that a formal, public response by an agency of the German federal government does not belong in this thread.

My bad, i just seen so many court cases here, that i thought thats the sole purpose.

KEVIN GALLETTE, JACKSON SMITH, and ROY HAHN VS. E-SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT, LLC and DOES 1-20
July, 2013
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA

Abstract: Class-action lawsuit filed against online gaming company whose software developers silently added Bitcoin mining to the company's gaming client. 

https://i.imgur.com/bxzgoWN.jpg
 - https://i.imgur.com/bxzgoWN.jpg

- http://www.polygon.com/2013/7/5/4495192/esea-served-with-bitcoin-related-class-action-action-lawsuit
 

- http://www.polygon.com/2013/5/1/4290022/esea-league-code-used-idle-users-pcs-to-mine-bitcoins-co-owner

SEC v. Trendon T. Shavers, et al  
July 23, 2013
Location: Sherman, TX, USA

Abstract: 3.  In 2011 and 2012 Shavers, operating under the Internet name "pirateat40,", operated a classic Ponzi scheme raising more than 700,000 BTC in principal investments from BTCST investors.

 - http://www.sec.gov/litigation/complaints/2013/comp-pr2013-132.pdf  (PDF)
 - http://bit.ly/13awWVJ  <--  Browser-friendly (using a PDF viewer)

Separately, the SEC issued an alert on Ponzis:
 - https://www.sec.gov/servlet/Satellite/News/PressRelease/Detail/PressRelease/1370539730583#.Ue68AN__6b6
 - http://www.sec.gov/investor/alerts/ia_virtualcurrencies.pdf (PDF)
 - http://bit.ly/11c3IrP  <-- Browser-friendly (using a PDF viewer)


Press and other threads:
 - http://www.businessinsider.com/sec-charges-texas-man-with-running-bitcoin-ponzi-scheme-2013-7

2013-07-23 BI: SEC Charges Texas Man With Running Bitcoin Ponzi Scheme
 - http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=261236.msg2788443#msg2788443

SEC finally charges pirateat40 aka Trendon Shavers
 - http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=261234.0


This is being covered in the WSJ, on CNBC, and likely will reach most business news.

Bank of Thailand Governor Prasarn instructs Bitcoin exchange to halt trading
July 29, 2013
Location: Bangkok, Thailand

Abstract: Following a conference by the Bank of Thailand, Bitcoin Co. Ltd, of Thailand was advised to halt trading between bitcoins and Thai Baht until further notice.

Here's an article which includes a translation from the Thai newspaper in which Governor Prasarn was quoted.
 - http://asiancorrespondent.com/111332/has-bitcoin-been-banned-from-thailand

This has been covered in all the finance and tech media, Wired, Ars Technica, The Register, The Verge, QZ.com, etc.,

There is a development with this case.

MEMORANDUM OPINION REGARDING THE COURT’S SUBJECT MATTER JURISDICTION
 - http://ia800904.us.archive.org/35/items/gov.uscourts.txed.146063/gov.uscourts.txed.146063.23.0.pdf
 - http://bit.ly/19O1qob <-- Browser friendly (PDF Viewer)

State of NY's Notice of Inquiry on Virtual Currencies
August 12, 2013
Location: New York, NY, USA

Abstract: NY State's financial regulator Dept. of Financial Services is "concerned" that virtual currency exchangers engage in money transmission.  Subpoenas to exchanges have been issues.  

Notice of Inquiry on Virtual Currencies
 - http://dfs.ny.gov/about/press2013/memo1308121.pdf
 - https://docs.google.com/viewer?url=http://dfs.ny.gov/about/press2013/memo1308121.pdf (Browser-friendly PDF viewer)
 - http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=272269.0  (Further discussion)

NY regulator issue subpoenas to firms tied to Bitcoin: WSJ
 - http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/08/12/us-digitalcurrency-subpoena-bitcoin-idUSBRE97B03720130812

Iacono et al v. Bitinstant, L.L.C.
August 8, 2013
New York, USA (NY Southern District Court)
Case: 1:2013cv04674

Abstract: Class action complaint against BitInstant. The assertion is that BitInstant made false claims about the speed of its service and the refund of fees.

 - http://www.scribd.com/doc/160464240/BitInstant-Class-Action-Lawsuit
 - http://www.coindesk.com/bitinstant-gets-hit-with-a-class-action-lawsuit-by-frustrated-customers

Inquiry into Virtual Currencies by U.S. Congress (Committee On Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs)
August 12, 2013
Location: Washington, DC, USA

Abstract: A U.S. Senate Committee has started an inquiry into Bitcoin and other virtual currencies, asking a range of regulators to list what safeguards are in place to prevent criminal activity.

 - http://www.hsgac.senate.gov/download/letter-to-secretary-napolitano-on-virtual-currencies
 - http://bit.ly/1bFGgXf (Browser-friendly / PDF viewer)
 - http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/08/13/usa-senate-bitcoin-idUSL2N0GE10K20130813

Multiple confirmed Sources
August 18, 2013
German newspaper Die Welt.
Germany recognizes Bitcoin as ‘private money’

Abstract: Bitcoin has been recognized for legal and tax purposes in Germany, making it the first country to take an official stance on the status of using the online currency as money.

Berlin has acknowledged the virtual tender as a "currency unit" and "private money," according to German newspaper Die Welt.

German Translated

Germany has recognized the digital currency Bitcoin. The virtual coins are legally and fiscally approved and authorized as "units of account", Member of Parliament Frank Schaeffler reported on its website. The FDP politician appeals to the response to a request of the Finance Ministry, which he had made as a parliamentarian.

Sources:
http://rt.com/news/bitcoin-germany-recognize-currency-641/
http://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2013/08/germany-recognizes-bitcoin-as-a-private-money-subject-to-capital-gains-tax/
http://www.theverge.com/2013/8/19/4636068/germanys-recognition-of-bitcoin-paves-the-way-for-a-licensed-exchange-EU

German:
http://www.tagesschau.de/wirtschaft/bitcoin100.html

Bitcointalk
https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=277282.0
https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=277207.0
https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=277028.0

Updated Video
RussiaToday
http://rt.com/news/bitcoin-exchange-berlin-currency-941/

Update to this ...

When the seizure warrant was executed, $2,915,507.40 was the amount seized from Dwolla:
 - http://www.scribd.com/doc/161492071/Bitcoin-Mt-Gox-Warrant-Executed

And here's the other shoe that we knew had been dropped.

$2.1 million from the Wells Fargo account, seized in June frm both a Mt. Gox (Mutum Sigillum LLC) account as well as an account in Mark Karpeles' own name.

U.S. District Court (District of Maryland) Case Number: 13-1085SAG

Additional $2.1M Seized from Mt. Gox Accounts – Now Over $5M Total

 - http://thegenesisblock.com/warrant-for-mt-gox-wells-fargo-accounts-shows-additional-2-1m-seized/
 - http://ge.tt/49PqWcq/v/0?c (Affidavit In Support Of Seizure Warrant)
 - http://ge.tt/5H5GXcq/v/0?c (Seizure Warrant)

Thats how much now? 5kk+? Nicely sunk.

Further development with this case.

CLERK'S ENTRY OF DEFAULT
 - http://ia600904.us.archive.org/35/items/gov.uscourts.txed.146063/gov.uscourts.txed.146063.25.0.pdf
 - http://bit.ly/141B1Mp <-- Browser friendly (PDF Viewer)

Advisory Opinion Request to U.S. Federal Election Committee (FEC)
August 13, 2013
Location: Washington, DC, USA

Abstract: A Political Action Committee solicits the FEC's opinion on varios aspects of Bitcoin being accepted for political campain contributions.


Advisory Opinion Request of Conservative Action Fund PAC
 - http://saos.nictusa.com/aodocs/1245451.pdf
 - http://bit.ly/17FKUC1 (via browser-based PDF viewer)

Feds could allow Bitcoin campaign donations
 - http://www.politico.com/story/2013/09/bitcoin-campaign-donations-96301.html?hp=l12

United States v. Adam Joseph BUNGER A/K/A John Smith A/K/A Jarvis Smith
September, 2013
Location: Bowling Green, Kentucky

Abstract: Guns were sold through the anonymous marketplace Black Market Reloaded, shipped from Bowling Green, KY to an Australian Buyer.  Australian customs intercepted the shipment.  ATF agent filed complaint in US federal court.


And a little bit of LOL:


Ky man charged with shipping guns internationally
 - http://www.bgdailynews.com/news/state/ky-man-charged-with-shipping-guns-internationally/article_36a01949-7c14-5702-868c-c2b21f218624.html

I see the requirements for becoming an agent are still to not have an IQ higher than a chair. :D

Update: ANSWER AND COUNTERCLAIM

 - http://numismatics.pwnz.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MtGox-Answer.pdf
 - http://bit.ly/1eowU72 (Browser-friendly PDF viewer)


 - http://numismatics.pwnz.org/coinlab-v-mtgox-answer-complaint

I'm hoping for this thread to remain an index, mostly with just a brief summation and then links towards other threads and external sources -- rather than be where discussion for each index entry occurs.   Feel free to reply with a link to a relevant thread where further discussion occurs or to other related content.

TLDR:
http://www.wired.com/wiredenterprise/2013/09/mt-gox/

Another update on this:

Certified letter from U.S. District Court to Trendon T. Shavers - returned to sender / unclaimed.

 - http://archive.org/download/gov.uscourts.txed.146063/gov.uscourts.txed.146063.29.0.pdf
 - http://bit.ly/1aWG7SD (Browser-friendly PDF viewer)

Bitcoins confiscated in Operation Ransomware
September 27, 2013
Location: Madrid Spain

Abstract: Technological Investigation Brigade, the national police in Spain, confiscated [Edit: gained the credentials necessary to spend] an undisclosed number of Bitcoins from a pair of foreigners "laundering" 10K EUR a day in a malware/ransomware scam that sold access to remotely controlled computer systems.

- http://www.policia.es/prensa/20130927_1.html

What is unknown is if this is the same bust reported in February:
 - http://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2013/02/spanish-police-bust-alleged-ransomware-ring-that-took-in-1-34m-annually

Thanks for the info.

United States of America v. ROSS WILLIAM ULBRICHT a/k/a Dread Pirate Roberts a/k/a Silk Road
September 27, 2013
Location: Southern District of New York

Abstract: FBI files complaint against founder and operator of Silk Road market with narcotics trafficking conspiracy, computer hacking conspiracy, and money laundering conspiracy.


Note, the source of the complaint is from security researcher Brian K Rebs' website, so this URL is tentative:

 - http://krebsonsecurity.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/UlbrichtCriminalComplaint.pdf
 - http://www.theverge.com/2013/10/2/4794780/fbi-seizes-underground-drug-market-silk-road-owner-indicted-in-new
 - http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=306338.0 (Primary discussion thread on this is the Press board)

Fuck me sideways, and i thought they would never catch him.
I wonder how long this site served as a honey pot.
Although this recent statement of DPR sounds genuine:
http://www.reddit.com/r/SilkRoad/comments/1mtcb1/dpr_atlantis_spokesman_on_the_atlantis_shutdown/

I don't know at which point to stop posting about new cases where the only part where Bitcoin is relevant is that it was used as the type of currency.  Here is one of those, but it is probably significant enough:

United States of America v. STEVEN LLOYD SADLER and JENNA M. WHITE
October 2, 2013
Location: Seattle, WA, USA

Abstract: Selling through the Silk Road, vendor "Nod" (Sadler and White) were charged with conspiracy to distribute drugs, including over 2 kilos of cocaine, illegally.   

The only reference to Bitcoin was this:


 - http://cryptome.org/2013/10/sadler-white-complaint.pdf
 - http://bit.ly/15Tlx3o (browser-friendly PDF viewer)
 - http://krebsonsecurity.com/2013/10/feds-arrest-alleged-top-silk-road-drug-seller

There was a separate bust of Silk Road sellers, this time in the UK, but Bitcoin was not specifically mentioned:

Four UK men arrested over Silk Road links
 - http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-24443216

According to a Spanish journalist, the police changed the bitcoins for euros.
https://twitter.com/pabloromero/statuses/386874644747534336

Since the description of this thread includes interactions with "regulators", ...

Amendment to Form S-1 REGISTRATION STATEMENT
by WINKLEVOSS BITCOIN TRUST
October 8, 2013
Location: Washington D.C. (Filing with SEC)

Abstract: Preliminary prospectus of the WINKLEVOSS BITCOIN TRUST

 - http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1579346/000119312513393903/d562329ds1a.htm

And another one:

SEC FORM D - Notice of Exempt Offering of Securities
by Bitcoin Investment Trust
October 4, 2013
Location: New York, NY USA

Abstract:  New Notice, Date of First Sale: 2013-09-25, Total Amount Sold: $2,542,818 USD

 - http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1588489/000158848913000001/xslFormDX01/primary_doc.xml

Update: PLAINTIFF’S ANSWER TO COUNTERCLAIM

 - http://thegenesisblock.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/CoinLab-Response-10-04-13.pdf
 - http://thegenesisblock.com/coinlab-files-response-mt-gox-lawsuit/

This seems applicable to bitcoin but does not mention it explicitly
" Fitting under Bitcoin-related topics that interact with the courts, police, regulators, etc."
Feel free to correct me Stephen if it is not


Crowdfunding counts as taxable income, Revenue Canada says
Oct 10, 2013
Location: Canada

Abstract: Tax attorneys and several media outlets reported earlier this week that a recent interpretation the CRA issued in response to a query about crowdfunding makes clear that if the money raised is related to professional or business activities, then it qualifies as income.

"In our view, amounts received by a taxpayer from crowdfunding activities would generally be included in income pursuant to subsection 9(1) of the [Income Tax] Act as income from carrying on a business," the CRA said in an Aug. 16 letter that was made public this week.

http://www.cbc.ca/m/touch/business/story/1.1959091

freedomno you are forgetting that most of the old members are communists in the eyes of investors who jumped on board this year and for them its quite relevant.
Stephen keep up he excellent work, i always enjoy the well researched updates.

Bitcoins confiscated and arrests made by Dutch authorities
October 24, 2013
Location: Netherlands

Abstract: Four men from Alkmaar, Haarlem, Woubrugge and Roden were arrested, suspected of involvement in large-scale, digital fraud and (1M EUR) money laundering case [TorRAT malware].

Hackers plunder back accounts
 - http://www.om.nl/actueel/nieuws-persberichten/@161668/hackers-plunderen

Dutch TorRAT Threat Actors Arrested
 - http://blog.trendmicro.com/trendlabs-security-intelligence/dutch-torrat-threat-actors-arrested

Malware gang steals $1.4m and sets up bitcoin exchange to launder it
 - http://www.coindesk.com/malware-gang-steals-1-4m-bitcoin-exchange-launder

How the Spanish police seizes bitcoins
http://www.elmundo.es/tecnologia/2013/11/01/5270d45363fd3da7618b4576.html

Bitcoin: A Primer, paper by the Chicago Fed
Location: Chicago, U.S.
December, 2013

Abstract: This paper by an analyst/economist with the Chicago Federal Reserve is a review of the mechanics of the currency and offers some thoughts on its characteristics.

 - http://www.chicagofed.org/webpages/publications/chicago_fed_letter
 - http://www.chicagofed.org/digital_assets/publications/chicago_fed_letter/2013/cfldecember2013_317.pdf
 - http://bit.ly/1b7G83R (Browser-friendly PDF viewer)

Bitcoin is acceptable payment for attorneys, Israel Bar Association rules
Location: Israel
August, 2013

Abstract: Israel’s banking system has restricted commercial transactions of the virtual currency, but Bar Association authorized members to accept it.
Israeli attorneys can accept payment in bitcoin. This ruling was made this month by the a regional ethics committee of the Israel Bar Association, despite the regulatory problems surrounding the independent virtual currency.

http://www.haaretz.com/news/national/.premium-1.539001

Preliminary: United States of America V. Matthew Crisafi
Location: New Hampshire
October, 2013 [?]

Abstract: The Department of Justice said that it’s arrested 38-year-old Matthew Crisafi in New Hampshire on charges of selling unlicensed firearms, arms smuggling and money laundering after he allegedly attempted to sell firearms to an undercover officer of the Department of Homeland Security.

 - http://www.forbes.com/sites/andygreenberg/2013/11/07/sting-operation-nabs-alleged-online-arms-dealer-via-silk-road-competitor-site/

FYI, I created a stub wiki article - Compilation of legal and regulatory information (https://en.bitcoin.it/wiki/Compilation_of_legal_and_regulatory_information).

It would be cool if we banded together and filled in relevant bits in an concentrated format.

That would be cool the bitcoin wiki is a place people check out often

Not to be totally off topic

Addition: Canadian Government Website
Official Statement on the treatment of Bitcoin for Tax Purposes
What you should know about digital currency
http://news.gc.ca/web/article-eng.do?nid=787789

Full Article (Since its short):

What is digital currency?

Digital currency is virtual money that can be used to buy and sell goods or services on the Internet. Bitcoins are an example of digital currency. Bitcoins are not controlled by central banks or any country, and can be traded anonymously. Bitcoins can be bought and sold in return for traditional currency, and can also be transferred from one person to another.

Do tax rules apply when digital currency is used?

Yes. Where digital currency is used to pay for goods or services, the rules for barter transactions apply. A barter transaction occurs when any two persons agree to exchange goods or services and carry out that exchange without using legal currency. For example, paying for movies with digital currency is a barter transaction. The value of the movies purchased using digital currency must be included in the seller’s income for tax purposes. The amount to be included would be the value of the movies in Canadian dollars.

More information on the tax implications of barter transactions is available by consulting the Canada Revenue Agency’s Interpretation Bulletin IT-490, Barter Transactions.

Digital currency can also be bought or sold like a commodity. Any resulting gains or losses could be taxable income or capital for the taxpayer. Paragraphs 9 to 32 of Interpretation Bulletin IT-479R, Transactions in Securities, provide information that can help in determining whether transactions are income or capital in nature.

Should I be concerned about reporting requirements when using digital currency?

Not reporting income from domestic or foreign sources is illegal. Canadians should know that the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is very active in pursuing cases of non-compliance, in order to ensure that the tax system remains fair for everyone.

If required, you should take this opportunity to correct your tax affairs through the CRA’s Voluntary Disclosures Program. For more information, go to www.cra.gc.ca/voluntarydisclosures.

Thanks for doing that.  This thread has bitcoin-related developments such as the Alydian bankruptcy filing, which is a court case but has little to do with regulatory issues.  And thus is probably not a good candidate for that wiki article.  But it would be good for these to continue being recorded. So perhaps we would want to keep this thread going, but also post relevant legal and regulatory developments to that wiki article as well?

Yeah, both are good.
I created a new announcement thread (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=327939.0) just in case to let everyone know about this.

Perhaps you should add the wiki to the OP of this thread?

Good suggestion.  Done.

Update:

The FEC's response:


 - http://saos.nictusa.com/aodocs/201315.pdf
 - http://bit.ly/1gwzhVr (Using browser-friendly PDF viewer)

http://www.coindesk.com/fincen-secret-service-bitcoin-foundation-hearing-bitcoin

Hearing with live stream titled: ‘Beyond Silk Road: potential risks, threats, and promises of virtual currencies’

STATE OF NEW JERSEY V. E-SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT
Location: Newark, New Jersey
November 19, 2013

Abstract: The Attorney General for the state of New Jersey sued E-Sports Entertainment whose software was updated mine bitcoins on its customers computers.

 - http://nj.gov/oag/newsreleases13/pr20131119a.html
 - http://nj.gov/oag/newsreleases13/E-Sports_Complaint_Consent-Judgment.pdf
 - http://bit.ly/17LqLd6 (Judgement viewed in browser-friendly PDF viewer)


 - http://www.businessinsider.com/bitcoin-gaming-company-mining-2013-11


Previously a class action suit had been filed:
 - http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=96118.msg2666726#msg2666726

There seems to be a lot of movement in the Legal Realm
Was wondering if this site seems like a fair representation for keeping track of some legal changes we might miss Stephen gave it a browse looks fair enough in its perspective for me.
http://bitlegal.net/

Russian Central Bank Issues a Strong Counterpoint to Sberbank Chief
2014-01-27
From http://bitlegal.net/
Abstract: Two strong positions on Bitcoin and virtual currency are emerging in Russia. On Jan. 27., the Central Bank of Russia warned that businesses involved with Bitcoin would potentially be considered involved in money laundering or terrorism financing. This is in sharp contrast to the Jan. 24 comments by the Sberbank CEO, who called restrictions on virtual currencies a "colossal step backward."

Sourcing towards
Central Bank of the Russian Federation (Bank of Russia)
Press office
January 27, 2014
Location: Russia
http://www.cbr.ru/press/PR.aspx?file=27012014_1825052.htm

The Bank of Russia said that recently in the world have a certain distribution of the so-called "virtual currency", in particular, Bitcoin. By "virtual currencies" and there is no provision for them legally obliged entities. These operations are speculative in nature, carried out on the so-called "virtual exchanges" and carry a high risk of loss of value.

The Bank of Russia warns citizens and legal entities, primarily credit institutions and non-credit financial institutions, the use of "virtual currency" for them in exchange for goods (works, services) or cash in rubles and foreign currency.

According to article 27 of the Federal Law "On the Central Bank of the Russian Federation (Bank of Russia)" issue in the Russian Federation monetary surrogates prohibited.

Due to the anonymous nature of the activity for the production of "virtual currency" unlimited range of actors and to use them for transactions citizens and legal persons may be, including unintentionally involved in illegal activities, including the legalization (laundering) of proceeds from crime and terrorist financing.

The Bank of Russia has warned that Russian legal entities providing services for the exchange of "virtual currency" in rubles and foreign currency, as well as for goods (works, services) will be considered as a potential involvement in the implementation of suspicious transactions in accordance with the legislation on counteraction to legalization (laundering) proceeds of crime and financing of terrorism.

This thread is no longer being updated all that much. As Bitcoin further permeates the world, most every nation (or state, etc.) will have content specific to that jurisdiction's involvement with Bitcoin.   Feel free to continue posting as you wish, but this thread will no longer be even close to being a comprehensive list as it had been for a period of time.

Other resources:

 - http://bitlegal.net
 - http://www.cryptocoinlaw.net
 - http://twitter.com/virtuallylaw
 - http://BitcoinFoundation.org
 - http://coindesk.com
 - http://datauthority.org (info: http://coindesk.com/bitcoin-industry-leaders-launch-data-a-self-regulatory-body)
 - http://bitcoinfinancialassociation.org
 - http://en.bitcoin.it/wiki/Compilation_of_legal_and_regulatory_information

I've updated the first post with this update.

The document below is a recent advisory note by the Central Bank of Brazil about crypto-currencies. 

http://www.bcb.gov.br/pt-br/Paginas/bc-esclarece-sobre-os-riscos-decorrentes-da-aquisicao-das-chamadas-moedas-virtuais-ou-moedas-criptografadas.aspx (http://www.bcb.gov.br/pt-br/Paginas/bc-esclarece-sobre-os-riscos-decorrentes-da-aquisicao-das-chamadas-moedas-virtuais-ou-moedas-criptografadas.aspx)

Executive summary: crypto currencies should not be confused with electronic means for payments in BRL.  They have no emitting entity, backing institution or assets, no guarantees of acceptance or conversion to national currencies.  Their price may fluctuate wildly, even to zero, and governments may prevent their use.  They may get you involved in criminal investigations even if you use them in good faith.  They may be stolen by hackers.  We do not see them yet as a risk to the National Financial System, but we are following discussions in international forums and we may act if and when it is necessary.

---

[Approximate translation by Jorge Stolfi, provided for reader's convenience only.  The translation is not guaranteed to be accurate, especially with respect to the precise legal meaning of terms. This text should not be relied upon for legal purposes.]

BC informs about the risks associated with purchase of so-called "virtual currencies" or "cryptographic currencies"
February 19, 2014 17:01

The Central Bank of Brazil informs, first of all, that the so-called virtual currencies should not be confused with the "electronic currency" that are the subject of Law 12.865, of October 8, 2013, and their infra-legal regulations.  Electronic currencies, as disciplined by those norms, are assets stored in an electronic device or system that enable the end user to execute a payment trasaction valued in national currency [the Real, BRL --JS].  On the other hand, the so-called virtual currencies have their own form of denomination, that is, are expressed in accouting units that are distinct from the currencies emitted by sovereign governments, and cannot be considered electronic devices or systems for the storage of Reals.

​The use of so-called virtual currencies and the application, to them, of regulations that apply to the financial system and to payment systems, have been topics of international debate and statements by monetary authorities and other public authorities, with few conclusions to this moment.

The so-called virtual currencies are neither emittled nor guaranteed by any monetary authority.  Some are emitted and intermediated by non-financial entities, while others do not even have an entity that is responsible for their emission.  In both cases, the entities and persons who emit or act as intermediaries of those virtual assets are neither regulated nor supervised by monetary authorities of any country.

Those so-called virtual currencies have no guarantee of conversion to the official currency, and furthermore are not guaranteed by real assets of any kind. The conversion value of an asset known as virtual currency to currencies emitted by monetary authorities depends on the credibility and trust that the market agents may have in the acceptance of the so-called virtual currency as exchange instrument, and of the expectations of its appreciation.  There is, therefore, no governmental mechanism that would guarantee the official currency value of the instruments known as virtual currencies, leaving the risk of their acceptance wholly in the hands of users.

Because of their low transaction volume, of their low acceptance as exchange medium, and of the lack of clear perception about their legitimacy, the price variation of the so-called virtual currencies may be very large and fast, and may even lead to complete loss of their value.

On top of that, the eventual application, by monetary authorities of any country, of precautionary, coercive or punitive measures relative to the use of those assets, may significantly affect the price of said currencies, or even the possibility of their negotiation.

Furthermore, those virtual intruments may be used for illicit activities, which may lead to investigations by public authorities.  That way, the user of those virtual assets, even if he trades them in good faith, may find himself involved in said investigations.

Finally, the storage of the so-called virtual currencies in the so-called electronic wallets suffers from the risk that the owner of those assets suffers patriminial losses as a consequence of criminal attacks in the realm of the worldwide computer network.

In Brazil, even though the use of the so-called virtual currencies has yet to become a risk to the National Financial System, especially to retail payment transactions (article 6, paragraph 4 of Law 12.685/2013), the Central Bank of Brazil is following the evolution of the use of said instruments and the discussions in international forums on the topic -- especially about their nature, adequacy, and mechanism -- with the aim of eventually adopting measures within the scope of its legal mandate, if necessary.

Brasília, February 19, 2014
Central Bank of Brazil
Press Office
imprensa@bcb.gov.br

---

Class action against MtGox filed in Chicago.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/209741761/Greene-v-MtGox-Inc-Mt-Gox-Class-Action

Please refrain from commenting in this thread it's acting as a small index for legal cases but do feel free to add any interesting court cases and or regulatory cases you come along

Since I commented guess I'll add one for today

http://blog.bitlegal.io/post/78766455166/austrian-financial-agency-does-not-regulate-or

Marc Nickel - Thu Mar 06 2014

On March 6, the Austrian Financial Market Authority (FMA) broke that nation’s public silence on Bitcoin and gave notice that the agency neither regulates nor supervises Bitcoin activities. The statement also includes a comment that Bitcoin businesses may need to be licensed by other regulatory bodies, outside of the FMA jurisdiction. These two pieces of information are delivered in the first two sentences, and the bulk of the announcement contains a warning about the risks of using Bitcoin and a link to the European Banking Authority warning issued in December 2013.

Source: http://www.fma.gv.at/en/special-topics/bitcoin.html

Coinabul and owner thereof sued in U.S. Federal Court
https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=718096.0

Im afraid this list will continue to grow. I guess its the cost of dealing with an unregulated item.

I guess its not possible to join those as a Non-American?

How could this topic derail so dramatically?
Mods anywhere?

Hi All!!!

Just wanted to post a relevant legal news on the thread. There is a scammer named Deepak Chawla who is scamming many people here in India. Some people of the forum have approached me to take some legal action against this person and we are in the process of registering an FIR (First information report) with the police authorities. If the FIR is not registered then we would approach the courts to register the FIR. As per my knowledge this is gonna be the first case ever to come up before judicial authorities (in India) regarding bitcoins.

Will update you people as soon as there is a motion in the matter.

Regards
--
Kanishk Agarwal
Advocate
CriTaxCorp
Criminal-Taxation-Corporate
+919971666252

Can somebody please clean up here?

US District Court
Western District of Missouri
Western Division

Case NO. 4:14-cv-00815-BCW

FTC vs BF LABS, INC.

http://ia802308.us.archive.org/32/items/gov.uscourts.mowd.117531/gov.uscourts.mowd.117531.110.0.pdf

Also this - see list of documents

http://www.woodlaw.com/cases/butterfly-labs-and-bf-labs-inc-bitcoin-miners?page=1

Alleged Consumer Fraud.

Isn't that very old stuff (2011-2012), now moot after MtGOX's collapse?

Lot of this news is old and some good but can be also misleading on it but still good fun to read.

hello what about bitcoin in Ghana or in sub saharan countries such as Nigeria, what juridisction covers us

https://dockets.justia.com/search?parties=bitcoin&cases=mostrecent

Think this list needs to be closed and a new one opened and maintained. Most posts in here are from years back and older with nothing new. Sent a PM to OP just now maybe can come to thread and keep people updated stuff like this is handy to have and read. Maybe if does not want to continue to update if I ever get the time maybe will do one myself for everyone :)

Since it's been a while I'll add two entries that should have been put here.

EU's Top Court Rules That Bitcoin Exchange Is Tax-Free
October 22, 2015
Location: European Union

Abstract: European Union decides that Bitcoin is to be exempted from Value Added Taxes
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-10-22/bitcoin-virtual-currency-exchange-is-tax-free-eu-court-says-ig21wzcd


Bitcoin is illegal in nation, declares FSC's chairman
November 2, 2015
Location: Taiwan

Abstract: Taiwan bans Bitcoin due to ransoms being requested in the currency
http://www.chinapost.com.tw/taiwan/national/national-news/2015/11/03/449957/Bitcoin-is.htm

Later Found to be misstated information

I don't think e-begging to withdraw less than $3 in bitcoin is allowed or should even be condoned.  This is a thread about legal issues.

interesting list for trading

can anyone tell what is the legal status of bitcoins in india

In Bulgaria, according to the revenue authorities for the purposes of taxation, the income from the sale of currency Bitcoin treated as income from the sale of a financial asset.     Art. 33, paragraph 3, paragraph 4 of PITA.

(3) Taxable income from the sale or exchange of stocks, shares, compensatory instruments, investment bonds and other financial assets as well as foreign currency trading is the sum of realized during the year earnings determined for each specific transaction, less the amount of the realized year losses determined for each specific transaction.
The realized gain or loss is determined by the purchase price is reduced by the cost of the financial asset
(4) The realized profit / loss under par. 3 for each transaction is determined by the purchase price is reduced by the cost of the financial asset. When financial assets of a kind issued by a single person with different rates of acquisition and subsequently sold some of them and can not be proved which part is sold, the cost of each one of them is the weighted average price set based on the cost of the holdings of the date of sale financial assets of the same type and publisher.

Source Taxes Tita.bg

Suit to recover $460,458 in costs and damages from Bitcoinica.

Thank you for giving the opportunity to come join in bitcoin forum for guidance ya

- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legality_of_bitcoin_by_country [Added Sep 3, 2015]
 - http://coincenter.org/2015/06/tracking-bitcoin-regulation-state-by-state [Added Sep 3, 2015]
 - http://www.coindesk.com/regulation [Added Sep 3, 2015]
 - http://merkletree.io (formerly bitlegal.io I think)  [Added Sep 7, 2015] 
 - http://www.cryptocoinlaw.net
 - http://twitter.com/virtuallylaw
 - http://BitcoinFoundation.org
 - http://coindesk.com
 - http://datauthority.org (info: http://coindesk.com/bitcoin-industry-leaders-launch-data-a-self-regulatory-body)
 - http://bitcoinfinancialassociation.org
 - http://en.bitcoin.it/wiki/Compilation_of_legal_and_regulatory_information
]

A bit safer to buy/sell property for cash in Florida now:
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/crime/article91785802.ece/BINARY/Read%20the%20ruling%20(.PDF) (http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/crime/article91785802.ece/BINARY/Read%20the%20ruling%20(.PDF))

I have taken over the role of writing related legal news into a thread.

You can find my thread here
https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=1569841.0

This thread is out of date and OP said he would not run this thread that much anymore.

In order to see up to date news come here (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=1569841.0)! Good luck!

PS: No offense, OP, if you ever wish to take back the role, all you have to do is PMing me! Thank you for your understanding!

 :)

and so it must be true words. in the future crypto currency will be the most convenient currency for calculations and payments!

China to Restrict Bitcoin Marketing, But Blockchain Firms Unaffected

Just hours after it was first revealed that the People's Bank of China (PBoC) had held closed-door meetings with domestic bitcoin exchanges, new details are emerging about the conversations.

According to a new report by Caixin, the PBoC sought to restrict how the exchanges could seek to acquire potential new users, with the central bank indicating that the startups aren't able to mention the depreciation of the yuan in connection with marketing or otherwise promote their services offline.

Some of the involved exchanges were said to have cancelled planned activities that would have potentially utilized such a strategy.

The article further states that exchanges were advised to comply with know-your-customer (KYC) and anti-money laundering (AML) laws, and to refrain from using automated trading bots to boost volume, according to translation provided by Eric Zhao, from the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

A regional exchange employee wishing to remain anonymous dismissed the news as "no big deal" and unlikely to be motivated by any fears that bitcoin may compete with the yuan.

Another exchange employee, who wished to remain unidentified, expressed dissatisfaction with the reporting, alleging that some of the directives were not in fact new, though he did not provide clarity on which might have been previously given.

Past precedent provides some hints, though, as bitcoin companies in the region, in one instance, have previously backed out of public conferences due to regulatory pressure.

The comments notably follow news that China's State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) is looking into bitcoin under its mandate for stopping capital flight.

At press time, representatives from BTCC, Huobi and OKCoin had yet to respond to requests for comment.

No impact on blockchain

Notably, such instructions do not appear to have been given to startups working on blockchain projects or implementations using the distributed ledger technology behind bitcoin or alternative cryptographic tokens.

DJ Qian, CEO of blockchain-as-a-service startup BitSE, for example, indicated that the news "does not affect its business" due to its focus on non-monetary applications, a statement that was echoed in other responses.

Tong Li, CEO of Circle China, the bitcoin and blockchain-based messaging service, noted that he is not concerned about the directives or its impact on Circle's operations.

However, he did suggest that the announcement would be worth "following closely".

Blockchain investor Bo Shen, founding partner of Fenbushi Capital, expressed similar sentiment, indicating that he had not been in contact with any central bank officials about the topics discussed with bitcoin exchanges.

Shen is one of the more prolific investors in China-based blockchain projects, backing firms including Juzhen Financials as well as a number of open-source, alternative blockchain projects.

Adding potential insight is that Shen did offer a few words of advice to local exchanges, adding:

Indeed it doesn't. When one exchanges RMB for XBT on a Chinese exchange the transaction has no affect on the value of the Forex value of the RMB relative to any other forex currency. Bitcoin isn't traded in the forex at all.

When one exchanges RMB for XBT inside China, the total quantity of RMB doesn't change, only the ownership of that the RMB exhanged chages. If that XBT is then exchanged for USD on an exchanged in the U.S., then once again the total of USD in the USD doesn't change, only the ownership of the amount of USD exchanged does. There's no forex market effect either as no FX market activity occurred.

On the other hand, when one exchanges RMB for USD in order to effect a wire transfer of said USD to a destination outside China, the effect is quite different.

While the quantity of RMB may not change, the quantity of USDs held inside China has to decrease by the amount remitted abroad. This has an effect on the value of the RMB relative to the USD in the FX markets.

Bitcoin transactions have no such effect. Indeed they have no direct FX market effect at all, making bitcoin remittances a very good way for China to allow its population to

New York State at the New York Supreme Court on 3/16/2017 @ 9:30 am.

The New York Department of Financial Services will need to defend itself on why they created the bitlicense.

For those interested, Oral Arguments on the Status of the Bitlicense 3/16/2017 @ 8:30 am
http://meetu.ps/e/CycxN/nndL/a

Also, if people are tipping; I would love some tips to continue and take the bitlicense all the way to the supreme court: 1EW7ESwvS3yGesSbP8G5ULsHYmy5pykeCG

Hope to see you there.

The Basic:
Paper Review; Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System 3/9/2017 @ 7:00 pm
http://meetu.ps/e/CxT97/nndL/a

The Advanced topic:
Socratic Seminar 66 (Food Sponsored by PWC) 3/14/2017 @ 7:00 pm
http://meetu.ps/e/CwdKj/nndL/a

The Court Case:
Oral Arguments on the Status of the Bitlicense 3/16/2017 @ 8:30 am
http://meetu.ps/e/CycxN/nndL/a

The website of lawsuit:
http://www.article78againstNYDFS.com

Bitccoin may become the world by a kind of new things

I just posted the transcript of the Hearing in front of Justice Billings in me (vs) NYDFS.
http://www.article78againstnydfs.com/docs/Index-101880-15/09-HearingTranscript/20170316-HearingTranscript.pdf

You can find all the documents here: http://www.article78againstnydfs.com/raw.php

A video explanation: https://youtu.be/lj0Zzi3KxJc (8 minutes)
A textual explanation by Jim Harper, another lawyer: https://cei.org/blog/new-yorks-bitlicense-trial

Regards,
Theo Chino
Feel free to donate by clicking any donate button.

And the new date for Theo Chino (vs) NYDFS is Thursday May 4^th, 2017 at 9:30 am.

If you live in the New York City area, you are welcome to witness it in person:
https://www.meetup.com/Article-78-Against-NYDFS (https://www.meetup.com/Article-78-Against-NYDFS)

Regards,
Theo Chino
Feel free to donate by clicking any donate button.

legal Forum? ???! ;D haha to the moon
sorry

Good article on bitcoin and legality. Bitcoin is not so popular in developing world and there are less LIs to regulate the sector but most courts are prosecuting using the business regulations

Lot of this news is old and some good but can be also misleading on it but still good fun to read ;D

I would not be so sure about this information

Federal Judge Rules That Bitcoin Is Legal Money In Court Case
[emai/www.deepdotweb.com/l][/email]
POSTED BY: C. ALIENS  SEPTEMBER 28, 2016 IN FEATURED, NEWS UPDATES LEAVE A COMMENT

Potentially setting the standard for future cases, a New York federal judge ruled that Bitcoin is a form of legal currency.
On September 19, Judge Alison Nathan of the Southern District Court of New York likely ended the year-long Coin.mx case. Anthony Murgio, one of the Coin.my operators were indicted in July 2016 for working without a money transmission license. He was similarly charged with money laundering and willful failure to file suspicious activity report. Murgio’s council has been fighting to have the money laundering charges dismissed, arguing that Bitcoin is not legal currency.
coinmx.png
Judge Nathan rejected Murgio’s bid to dismiss the money laundering charges, claiming that Bitcoin very explicitly qualifies as currency.
According to Reuters, she wrote a brief explanation regarding her decision:
Bitcoins are funds within the plain meaning of that term. Bitcoins can be accepted as a payment for goods and services or bought directly from an exchange with a bank account. They, therefore, function as pecuniary resources and are used as a medium of exchange and a means of payment.
She adds that her decision did not address six other criminal counts that Mario faces.
Murgio, along with several other conspirators has been under federal investigation for criminal activity involving Bitcoin. He was accused of willingly laundering funds from bitcoin ransomware attacks and other fraud.
According to the FBI regarding Mario's criminal role in Coin.mx:
In doing so, Mario, and his co-conspirators knowingly enabled the criminals responsible for those attacks to receive the proceeds of their crimes, yet, in violation of federal anti-money laundering laws, Murgia never filed any suspicious activity reports regarding any of the transactions.
Nathan’s ruling follows a recent Florida money laundering case where Judge Pooler made precisely the opposite ruling. Pooler cleared the defendant of all charges after agreeing that Bitcoin failed to meet the state criteria for currency. Interestingly, the state of Florida is not alone in having currency specifications that leave Bitcoin in a gray area. Most similar, perhaps, is the IRS defining Bitcoin as a “property” (I.R.S. Notice 2014-36).
The aforementioned Florida case has pushed states to re-examine legislation to accommodate the growing cryptocurrency usage. In one scenario, such action was taken almost immediately. After Pooler cleared Michell Espinoza of money laundering charges, the state of Florida filed an appeal to overrule her decision. The state disagrees with Pooler’s finding that Bitcoin is not a legal currency in the state of Florida.
Attorney Brian Klein, Mario's legal counsel, tells CoinDesk that the defense will continue to fight the charges. “The defense obviously disagrees with the Court’s denial of the motion to dismiss,” he says. Klein tells the press that Mario looks forward to clearing his name at his upcoming court appearance.

I rarely get to add anything of substance to a sticky post. Feels good, man :)

the SEC just issued guidance on the legal state of ICOs and token sales:
https://www.sec.gov/news/press-release/2017-131

some highlights:




so, expect US based ICOs to shutter, its not safe to do this without registering anymore, and it takes a few months, if not years, to do so.also, you may see exchanges stop offering these securities unless they go into compliance. this will greatly enhance the quality of these offerings however, they simply wont be able to pull that anon team bullshit, or perpetrate outright scams. the laws is watching now :D

I wonder how this will fair for ICO that are in between their pre offerings and live ICOs, as well as those that are due to start in the next few weeks, that are US based or offering to US investors.

Expect participation to close for US citizens. And prepare accordingly ;)

I like the one in Miami.  Shake it up a bit.

www.miamiherald.com/news/local/crime/article91682102.html

Bitcoin not money, Miami judge rules in dismissing laundering charges
BY DAVID OVALLE
dovalle@miamiherald.com

JULY 25, 2016 10:22 AM

A Miami-Dade judge ruled Monday that Bitcoin is not actually money, a decision hailed by proponents of the virtual currency that has become popular across the world.

In a case closely watched in financial and tech circles, the judge threw out the felony charges against website designer Michell Espinoza, who had been charged with illegally transmitting and laundering $1,500 worth of Bitcoins. He sold them to undercover detectives who told him they wanted to use the money to buy stolen credit-card numbers.

But Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Teresa Mary Pooler ruled that Bitcoin was not backed by any government or bank, and was not “tangible wealth” and “cannot be hidden under a mattress like cash and gold bars.”

“The court is not an expert in economics; however, it is very clear, even to someone with limited knowledge in the area, the Bitcoin has a long way to go before it the equivalent of money,” Pooler wrote in an eight-page order.


The judge also wrote that Florida law — which says someone can be charged with money laundering if they engage in a financial transaction that will “promote” illegal activity — is way too vague to apply to Bitcoin.

“This court is unwilling to punish a man for selling his property to another, when his actions fall under a statute that is so vaguely written that even legal professionals have difficulty finding a singular meaning,” she wrote.

The ruling was lauded by Bitcoin experts who believe the ruling will encourage the use of the virtual currency, and offer a roadmap to governments across the world that have struggled to understand and regulate it.

Espinoza’s attorney, Rene Palomino, said the judge’s order was “beautifully written.”

“At least it gives the Bitcoin community some guidance that what my client did was not illegal,” Palomino said. “What he basically did was sell his own personal property. Michell Espinoza did not violate the law, plain and simple.”

A spokesman for the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office said: “We are presently reviewing the court order to determine whether we will be appealing this decision.”

Law enforcement has struggled to figure out how Bitcoin fits into illegal activities, and Espinoza’s case was believed to be the first money-laundering prosecution involving the virtual currency.

The controversial virtual currency allows some users to spend money anonymously and it can be also be bought and sold on exchanges with U.S. dollars and other currencies.

The currency has gained popularity with merchants selling legitimate goods and services. In Miami, there are a few restaurants that accept the virtual currency — and even a plastic surgeon.

Regulated services such as CoinBase, which operates similarly to PayPal, allow people to buy, sell and use the Bitcoins. But authorities have raised concerns about the currency being used in the anonymous black market.

Most notoriously, Bitcoins were used to traffic drugs in the now-shuttered Silk Road network. In an unrelated South Florida case, a Miramar man got 10 years in prison after using Bitcoins to buy Chinese-made synthetic heroin from a Canadian prisoner.

testing testing . Can I post anything without some bogus, "sorry, you just posted 360 seconds ago."
I just woke up, no, I haven't posted anything, that's impossible, I was asleep.

http://blog.wizsec.jp/2017/07/breaking-open-mtgox-1.html

THIS company is taking donations for the White Supremacy/Neo-Nazi/Anti-Semitic Website "The Daily Stormer". Let them know what you think about it!!!  https://www.dailystormer.com/contributions/

cointelegraph.com is good too.

Hey guys. I had to create a new account for this, because there’s a site giving invites for free (well, almost! You have to support your chosen torrent site first!) and It is working

The site is http://torrentVIP.ga

Ethereum enterprise alliance legal industry working group

(cant post links, all links are here :
https://entethalliance.org/ethereum-enterprise-alliance-legal-industry-working-group-press-release/

Legal Industry Working Group Launches with Leading Global Law Firms, Corporations, Law Schools, and Academic Institutions Working to Collaborate and Explore Blockchain Technology and Smart Contracts.

NEW YORK, N.Y., USA – August 14, 2017 – Today the Enterprise Ethereum Alliance (EEA) announced that 14 leading law firms and academic institutions have joined the EEA’s Legal Industry Working Group, bringing together top, global law firms and leading legal minds to explore building enterprise-grade applications on Ethereum. The rapid growth of the EEA Legal Industry Working Group is emblematic of the increased interest by legal professionals in blockchain technology, and the EEA believes that the Legal Working Group will prove foundational to the success of various efforts taking place within the organization.

New members joining the EEA and Legal Industry Working Group include Cooley, Debevoise & Plimpton, Goodwin, Hogan Lovells, Holland & Knight, Jones Day, Latham & Watkins, Morrison & Foerster, Perkins Coie, Shearman & Sterling, Cardozo Law School, Duke Center on Law & Technology, and the Department of Legal Studies and Business Ethics at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School. Existing EEA members joining the EEA Legal Industry Working Group include BNY Mellon, ConsenSys, ING, and JPMorgan Chase & Co.

“We are thrilled to see robust interest in blockchain technology by forward-looking law firms and institutions,” said Aaron Wright, Chair of the EEA Legal Industry Working Group, Associate Clinical Professor and Co-Director of the Cardozo Law School’s Blockchain Project, and co-founder of the smart contract project OpenLaw, “Lawyers are poised to serve as the catalysts for blockchain technology, and the Legal Working Group will serve as a neutral space to explore blockchain-based legal technology, develop standards for “smart” legal agreements, support emerging enterprise use cases, and tackle important policy issues raised by this new impactful technology.”

The EEA is an industry-supported, not-for-profit established to build, promote, and broadly support Ethereum-based technology best practices, open standards, and open source reference architectures. Formed earlier this year, the EEA is helping to evolve Ethereum into an enterprise-grade technology, providing research and development in a range of areas, including privacy, confidentiality, scalability, and security. The EEA is also investigating hybrid architectures that span both permissioned and public Ethereum networks as well as industry-specific application layer working groups.
•Learn more about EEA and Ethereum
•Sign-up to receive the latest EEA information
•Join the 150+ members of EEA

EEA will collectively develop open industry standards and facilitate collaboration with its member base and is open to any members of the Ethereum community who wish to participate. This open source framework will enable the mass adoption at a depth and breadth otherwise unachievable in individual corporate silos and provide insight to the future of scalability, privacy, and confidentiality of the public Ethereum permissionless network.

For additional information about joining EEA, please reach out to membership@entethalliance.org.

Bittrex is not a secured platform, my account has been hacked even though i had 2FA secured and i didn’t even logged in that whole day.
I got Kaspersky security software installed in my Laptop and i didn’t even use mobile for trading on Bittrex.
After my account been hacked i reported within 24 hours as said in the email received from Bittrex, unfortunately everytime support reply with some automated message blaming customer for comprising the 2FA which is infact Bittrex straight away blaming customer and don’t want to refund my Bittcoin because of their Website which is not well secured and customer had to bear all the consequences.
Its not only me whose account been hacked but there are plenty customer whose huge bitcoins has been hacked because of their negligence

What is about new Chinese legislation? How long will it take to them to close all websites concerning ICO ? Who knows?

In general, we expect that if a token is considered as a security : you will have problem and the ICO who raised will struggle to transfert the Bitcoin in fiat in a bank account. There is still solution to unbox your bitcoin, A company in Dubai is accepting bitcoin to buy flat,houses, : you need a passport and a proof that fund doesnt come from no dark net activity. It is pretty fair to me, dont you??? :oBTCBTCBTC

Good news!
According to https://coincenter.org/entry/reps-polis-schweikert-introduce-cryptocurrency-tax-fairness-act-in-congress?mc_cid=dd03c78363&mc_eid=576e672ee9 there 's a new Cryptocurrency Tax Fairness Act proposed to US Congress, the bill directly aimed at making the lives of cryptocurrency users easier
This bill does two things::
1.Creates a de minimis exemption for cryptocurrency transactions for goods or services under $600.
2.Requires the Treasury Department to issue guidelines for informational reporting on digital currency transactions for which capital gains is due.

I guess it's the cost of dealing with an unregulated item.

Hello,
just signed up and wanted to say hello to all forum members.
I am international legal advisor, practicing in Sofia, Bulgaria. The experience with numerous client engaged with crypto trading, setting up their businesses and arranging their proper maintenance, involved me and made me keen on the crypto world.

Looking forward to improve my knowledge on cryptos, find some good investments opportunities, discuss current development with users in the know.
I am available to help and share my experience in terms of legislations, regulations, etc. regarding BTC.

Cheers!

Hi mate,
Does Bulgaria have something in common with crypto legislation or regulation?
I’d never heard it to be crypto friendly country. And what projects are you already accomplished with?

Legality Status of Bitcoin in India

In India bitcoin is not illegal but the controlling Reserve Bank of India issues warning instructions regarding bitcoin investment on regular intervals. The officials said that the Central bank is not comfortable with cryptocurrencies and they may regulate it in near future.

There are no instructions regarding the legality of bitcoin mining activity, but the regulations can be issued in near future. There are some news that government may launch its own cryptocurrency.

Source: https://finasko.com/question/bitcoin-mining-legal-india/

http://www.bitcoinbrasil.com.br/?p=464

Hi,

there is not dedicated legislation and regulation on bitcoin industry. Bitcoin as virtual currency is not considered legal tender by Bulgarian court. This is official court opinion on the matter after taken into consideration positions of Bulgarian National Bank (BNB) and the Financial Supervision Commission (FSC).

There is a high demand for bitcoin/altcoin/cryptocurrency companies which can be created and entered into Bulgarian company register without any limitations on commercial activity. Bulgarian authorities are not restrictive to bitcoin, so the business environment is excellent for such development. We are able to provide future clients with limited company, fully packed with VAT registration, company stamp, etc. + assistance with corporate account opening.

If you need more details or just want to have a talk on the topic, PM me :)

Regulatory concerns appear to hit bitcoin and other cryptos in my area of jurisdiction.

good regulation will make digital currency more reliable. blockchain as a major successor must provide an inertial equality for every investor who comes. through this jamianan then of course will be an excess that poses a positive impact in society cryptocurency

With the increase of popularity of cryptocurrency, specially bitcoin, some countries and banks are willing to regulate those activities. But for the moment no one has found the ideal way in which both users and entities find themselves comfortables. Certainly, to continue growing and be considered as a real common option of currency, cryptocurrency needs to be reliable, and for that, needs to be regulated.

I was reading this article in which Special Counsel Roy Keidar and Associate Netanella Treistman of law firm Yigal Arnon & Co examine how blockchain can help to the anti-money laundering (AML) issues that crypto-currencies face, and in this way make this technology more well trusted for the audience:

https://bravenewcoin.com/news/blockchain-could-provide-the-answer-to-the-anti-money-laundering-issues-that-crypto-currencies-face/


What is interesting of this article is the introduction of the idea, that probably for us is totally obvious, of change the prisma from where AML regulations are seeing Cryptocurrency. Instead to look at it like the enemy it can be the most reliable key to control their issues.

For example to adjust to the Know Your Client (KYC) process:  "thanks to blockchain technology, crypto-currencies inherently possess the potential to actually reduce AML risks when compared with fiat currencies. The blockchain is an online public ledger, where each transaction is supervised, validated and recorded as a complete transaction history. Public ledger viewers and crypto-miners are immediately notified of any transfer from one holder to another."... "the blockchain protocol could be revised to limit transactions to KYC-verified wallets only." (extracted from the article)

What I am wondering is: are users of cryptocurrency willing to pay the price associated to the implementation of this kind of regulations, such as higher transaction costs and less anonymity?

Change bitcoin or not?

How many days bitcoin go to the 5000$? :)

Pirate Bai used users for mining and to get Bitcoin>  www.wired.it

The torrent site Pirate Bai has unknowingli exploited the power computing users computers.A lot of this torrent have embarked a donation throught Bitcoin,

i hate it when there is a list of complaints about people that have nothing better to do than to bother others. There is allot of haters out there

It is very disturbing to deal with this type of situation as the consumer or customer. To have all of this on file and to be an expert on this matter must come back and haunt anyone.

Thhis is very disapointing

This is very disappointing !!

till now they is not low against bitcoin so you can exchange it to $ in Dark market or with friends

Hey guys ;).My bad, i just seen so many court cases here, that i thought thats the sole purpose.

 They highlight the ways in which Bitcoin either defeats or bypasses methods of control that regulators enjoy through the banking-system. :o

How time bitcoin go to the 7000$?  ;D

Hi there, I am wondering if cryptocurrencies should be regulated, what's your opinion: yes or no? If so, should it be regulated as a security, a commodity or as something else?

It would be cool if we banded together and filled in relevant bits in an concentrated format.

Annemieke Dirke's front speaker Bitshares Foundation tries to calm the community with fake news in the bitsharesDEX telegram chat will ask any member of the admin if the person ask (ICO SCAM) for the real information (blackmail) which has already triggered a wave of queries deleted. On Steemit, Annemieke Dirke's co-workers take the same procedure instead of voting immediately. BaFi's research and the US authorities are massively expanding. Chinas investors are already taking off their capital. The big announced Bittrex deal will not materialize The founders have already spoken with the authorities. The total damage will be tens of millions of millions of dollars, the authorities will freeze the capital of the entire Bitshares.org. Thanks Annnemieke Dirkes (Anna Dirkes).

---

---

„Annemieke Dirkes“front speaker Bitshares Foundation tries to calm the community with fake news in the bitsharesDEX telegram chat will ask any member of the admin if the person ask (ICO SCAM) for the real information (blackmail) which has already triggered a wave of queries deleted. On Steemit, Annemieke Dirke's co-workers take the same procedure instead of voting immediately. BaFi's research and the US authorities are massively expanding. Chinas investors are already taking off their capital. The big announced Bittrex deal will not materialize The founders have already spoken with the authorities. The total damage will be tens of millions of millions of dollars, the authorities will freeze the capital of the entire Bitshares.org. Thanks Annnemieke Dirkes (Anna Dirkes).

I'm hoping for this thread to remain an index, mostly with just a brief summation and then links towards other threads and external sources -- rather than be where discussion for each index entry occurs.   Feel free to reply with a link to a relevant thread where further discussion occurs or to other related content

 :P etc are recovering. Prices will grow strongly

hey everyboby this is my first post and i am very happy to be part of this forum

Government will only accept the legitimacy of BTC if it can regulate at some level. But they have no clue how to do it now. Instead of waiting for some regulation coming out which may not make sense, crypto community is able to proactive shape the future regulation with government. Hong Kong and Taiwan government have create so called sandbox and let the startups experiment while government is watching. Those governments expect to learn from these experience and make some creative regulation.

Does someone know if there is any regulation regarding ICOs?
I have the feeling it's like jungle for now.

Hello,

Remember what is considered a Security.

Now for legal reasons, don't consider this legal advise. Do get with an attorney.

These should be considered my opinions only because of ........

If the digital currency, token, or crypto or whatever you want to call it,

1) Is being backed by any commodity or asset.
2) If it is offering ownership in a company
3) If it represents a vote in the company
4) If the person or entity that acquires it is guaranteed a return on his or her investment.
5) If you use the word investment, that can upset regulators.
6) If you promise interest to the coinholders.

Good Luck

This is very interesting and informative. Thanks to all contributors

Well done Sir:

Also consider whether the purchaser is looking for passive income, which could just mean appreciation in value, or whether the purchaser is going to take an active role. If the purchaser is investing to obtain passive income it is more likely a security.

If it is a security then you have to be registered as such with the SEC and have their okay to go ahead. Not a small task.

There are exemptions to being a security. One of them is to have only accredited investors.

Best:

George D. Greenberg, Esq.
www.attorneybitcoin.com

I am sure most of the token issued during ICOs are not registered wit the SEC or any other financial regulator, aren't they? So the protection for us willing to invest in such ICO is rather small.

Very nice and good to read about bitcoin information provided by the contributors, even though some is outdated it helps a lot to know more about bitcoin.

Is there an updated list of court cases/complaints etc ?

What is this? A place to boost newbie accounts? I would prefer actual answer tbh...

Dont be afraid when the government wants to turn off bitcoin as it happens in china. Actually, the government can never really close the bitcoin. Maybe to close some minning sites, the fauchet can. But can the government close the btc wallet account we have? Can't. As long as our btc wallet account is still active, we can still bitcoin transactions worldwide, because bitcoin transactions are not through the bank.

IMHO, if we want cryptocurrencies to succeed, we should start paying for "crypto-lobbyists", who influence decision making processes.
what do you think of this idea? (ofc, we would need to pay for lobbyists in Washington DC, Brussels, etc).

September 6, 2012
Location: New York City, NY USA

BitFloor files complaint with FBI and Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).

Abstract: BitFloor suffered a security breach/hack in which about 24,000 BTC were stolen after access by the hacker was obtained to an unencrypted backup copy of the private keys hosted on BitFloor’s systems.  The exchange is essentially insolvent as a result and remains shuttered, except for facilitating withdrawals for the funds that weren’t stolen — the U.S. dollar balances, none of which were impacted as a result of the security breach.

https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/the-future-of-bitcoin-all-about-my-coin-book#/

This guy say he is the founder. ( What is this "MY coin" ). What do you think? Its a scam or not?

Patented  https://www.google.com/patents/WO2017091530A1?cl=en

Very Informative Post and got some new information to read this

the idea is good! but the community as well as BTC is decentralized. I'm not sure that we can organize lobbyists. Unfortunately every man for himself will fight to the fist high-profile incident.

An interesting read about Bitcoin & legislation..

I have a feeling threads like this will be becoming more popular this year as regulators are looking more carefully at ICOs and are willing to step in and take action where they think they have jurisdiction. Markets like Korea or China where they have simply banned ICOs make for uninteresting reading as there is no well explained policy reasons or abilities to make determinations on grey areas. I think that securities regulators and tax authorities who take an active interest and do not apply a blanket approach will make for very intellectual discussions.

i i have question as per the scenario  in present condition of bitcoin can it legally  acclaimed  by all country  or not if not then how the bitcoin excit in world wide

Update - India might not ban bitcoin but instead levy heavy taxes on it.

Hi

just upate in Indonesia, the regulation declares for concerning banning of bitcoin, will merely cover all forms of transactions using bitcoin, as a means of payment

I have a feeling threads like this will be becoming more popular this year as regulators are looking more carefully at ICOs and are willing to step in and take action where they think they have jurisdiction. Markets like Korea or China where they have simply banned ICOs make for uninteresting reading as there is no well explained policy reasons or abilities to make determinations on grey areas. I think that securities regulators and tax authorities who take an active interest and do not apply a blanket approach will make for very intellectual discussions.

why update too many posts to cover page 1 and 2, but this info is very good and useful, I really like and interested. just like this  ;) keep going ! Regrads

Bitcoin technology based on blockchain technology provides an attractive option for cybercriminals. With the operation of Bitcoin as a decentralized currency, people can make transactions without the presence of intermediaries such as banks or other financial institutions. This lack of intermediaries makes Bitcoin users gain anonymity and an impenetrable level of confidentiality from third-party interference.

I think it's disgusting the amount of exchanges and startups that have poor amounts of security for their digital assets. In traditional companies, there is very little someone can do to steal everything in seconds- however, obviously, crypto completely changes that. You'd think that anyone developing an exchange of value would invest considerable effort into protecting funds, but clearly they do not.

Agreed, I believe that something that needs to be done within exchanges would be a segregation of duties system. Whereas the hackers would have to penetrate many complex layers within the organization in order to steal funds. As it is now you take the funds and simply send it to your wallet. What exchanges should do IMO is make it so that there are 3-6 layers of authorizes on different teams in order to prevent fraud. Wondering if that could be built into the system itself for exchanges where the stakes are much higher than for the retail investor.   

Agreed. This is the #1 reason that governments not only are beginning to but MUST regulate the exchanges and ICO (startups) releases!
Regulation will force the exchanges to implement at least baseline security standards and financial solvency/reporting requirements for startups looking to use ICO's for their financing. Right now for the most part the crypto-coin world is the Wild West where anything goes with ZERO consumer protections.

Due to the bridge of security and it's lapses the government of some countries with detail knowledge of cyber crime has not been in agreement with its security checks and hence do not support it's policies and benefit even if the benefits out weighs the cyber evil. My take on the issue is that more appropriate measures be taken to make the blockchain technology a safer environment.

Disclosure Group Investment Bitcoin barred by the CVM in Brazil
Jul. 25, 2012
Location: Brazil

Abstract: CVM (securities regulator in Brazil) decided that the Brazilian operator of a bitcoin-based "investment group" was violating securities law there and had to suspend the group.

A case of Cryptocurrency fraud by some fraudster in Japan in the early days of Bitcoin, that was dated back to around 2003, there are other numerous cases

Haberle v. Spence = "Dark Ripple" or "DRIP" fraud class action

https://www.classactionsreporter.com/securities-fraud/julian-spence-drip-cryptocurrency-fraud-securities-class-action
http://securities.stanford.edu/filings-documents/1065/D00_04/2018329_f01c_18CV02288.pdf
https://bitcoin-lawyer.org/videos/

An interesting read about Bitcoin & legislation...
Oct. 26, 2017
Location: UK

Most crypto currency functions and circulate in the block. This is an open, decentralized database, where all transactions are recorded and stored. It does not reside on any particular server or hard drive, but is broken down into nodes. Support its active members of the network - ordinary users of full-fledged wallets.

What is a bitcoin? This word sounds from everywhere, people and texts repeat it. But what does it mean? Formally, everything is very simple: bit is an elementary unit of information, a coin is a coin. But what is caused by resonance throughout Ukraine, which has not fallen off for several weeks? And the fact that, if we sort out, we all live in a great time: a new kind of money is being established in the world. At first, people simply exchanged food and stone axes, then the role of the equivalent began to play - gold, then, with the invention of paper money, gold became their provision, then to the precious metals the Gross National Product was joined ... And now, most likely, an era begins when the provision of money becomes "the gold of the twentieth century - the information - which" goes to the people ", more precisely in his pocket, in the form of bitcoin.

Does anyone still think that the bitcoin is not backed up? Then we go back to you: that's absolutely not the case! The bitcoin is backed by information stored in the blocks (on this - further). Yes, bitcoin has no basis for material, but has another - scientific and technical. Information is "the gold of the twenty-first century". And, it is worth noting that it is a little distinguished from the gold - so it can not be built from the house, it can not be eaten or put on by itself - but analyze what it is: information, if it does according to established rules, enough it is difficult and costly to extract resources, as well as gold, it can be divided into small pieces, like gold, it can be stored for as long as you like, and the gold that is not corroded, and therefore it can be "made" coins ( bitcoins), as well as from gold. That's all ...

If you turn to the topical. Remember the recent news about the next record of the course (already $ 4,121 per 1 bitcoin), about the SBU, which revealed at the site of the Paton Institute some kind of "production" of bitcoins on 200 computers, or some country recognized bitcoin as a currency? And all this attention - through one fundamental thing. If the bitcoin is a currency unit that has a course, if it is a means of buying / selling, then where is the state? A monopoly on the organization of exchange is a key monopoly of the state. And if she was taken away? The easiest example: you sold something for the hryvnia, and as a law-abiding business entity, you deducted the tax - VAT for the budget, and if the bill was in bitcoins, which nobody in Ukraine recognized, whose course is not formed by the NBU, but unknown to anyone ...

What is my URL?I watch after that massege.

I recorded a phone call of myself talking to Bitpay Card customer service. The irony here was that my card was shut off for fraud protection like 4 times in a month, but they could not tell me why. I have since stopped using it as my primary crypto to fiat process. Has anyone had similar issues with Shakepay or the other alternative cards?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oibM7bRW06A

Bitcoin FBI Report April 2012
May 8, 2012
Location: U.S. agency, International distribution

Abstract: (Allegedly) The FBI provides analysis of bitcoin for distribution to an international audience

 - http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=80114.0BTC

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Bitcoin in France: first legal decision directly related to Bitcoin?
Sep. 4, 2011
Location: France

Think this list needs to be closed and a new one opened and maintained. Most posts in here are from years back and older with nothing new. Sent a PM to OP just now maybe can come to thread and keep people updated stuff like this is handy to have and read. Maybe if does not want to continue to update if I ever get the time maybe will do one myself for everyone

any news when will be the growth?

Actually, bitcoin regulations is not the main reason why people get issues. It is the lack of knowledge about bitcoin. Everyone are just not calibrated on everything about bitcoin and some countries just take it as a not legal right away due to lack of knowledge on how it really works.

Hey there, I am a law student and I have an idea about the creation of a research Lab in my faculty of Law in Sofia University, Bulgaria. Engaging law professors, explaining them about crypto and helping them help the Government and the EU Commission draft future crypto friendly regulations - I believe a mix of law theory, practical regulation, policy making and education is necessary for the wide adoption of btc and crypto.
Let me know if you are a law student/lawyer and are personally interested to contribute to analysis and fundamentals research on a high academic level.

In India transaction through bitcoin is still illegal. The second most high in population country still transaction through bitcoin is not authorized by government which very discouraging.

Legality can be defined as an act, agreement, or contract that is consistent with the law or state of being lawful or unlawful in a given jurisdiction.

According to merriam-webster dictionary definition of Legality is 1 : attachment to or observance of law. 2 : the quality or state of being legal.

Country : Bangladesh

Implicit ban. In September 2014, Bangladesh Bank said that "anybody caught using the virtual currency could be jailed under the country's strict anti-money laundering laws".

I wish one day our govt will give bitcoin legality and participate in it.

It is very sad - many good and hard working people suffering because many legal companies who over-sees Bitcoin and all-coins - they are not understand what they doing . Nick   

Bitcoin and some alt's accepting  by oficial financial world institutes is a matter of time.

I believe that current issues like lack of strict regulations, high market volatility, ico's scams etc. will be resolved soon.

So, cheer up, guys  :)

 

 

Recently, there was a Hearing in the Senate of the US for discussing what are they going to do to regulate the cryptocurrencies better without stopping the technological development. Very interesting! Read more in spanish at:
https://www.bitcoin.com.mx/en-el-senado-de-eua-discute-la-utilidad-de-bitcoin/

I wonder how to find those blockchain lawyers. Do they have companies?

I know some was advertise here, but its hard to scroll lol. If you like I can recommend some legal companies.

If you could give me sites where I could check them so I could further assess on which one is suited for me.

http://securities.stanford.edu/filings-documents/1065/D00_04/2018329_f01c_18CV02288.pdf (http://securities.stanford.edu/filings-documents/1065/D00_04/2018329_f01c_18CV02288.pdf)
https://www.pacermonitor.com/public/case/24078969/HEBERLE_v_SPENCE (https://www.pacermonitor.com/public/case/24078969/HEBERLE_v_SPENCE)

Fraudulent ICO token class action

https://shuftipro.com/blogs/10-quick-tips-regarding-identity-theft-protection/

Has anyone any update on 4new ?

https://sydneystarrubbishremoval.com.au/

Finanstilsynet - The Financial Supervisory Authority of Norway
RAPPORT RISIKO- OG SÅRBARHETSANALYSE (ROS)
March, 2012

Abstract: The financial supervisory authority of Norway publishes a Risk and Vulnerability analysis and references Bitcoin under "2.4.3 titled 'Shadow services on the internet'".  Includes only a description (an inaccurate one at that) of Bitcoin.

 - http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=96077.0
 - http://www.finanstilsynet.no/Global/Venstremeny/Rapport/2012/ROS-analyse_2011.pdf

Disclosure Group Investment Bitcoin barred by the CVM in Brazil
Jul. 25, 2012
Location: Brazil ::) ::)

The last time I checked Group investment was a forex broker company and the reason they are ban will definitely be because of the Hashbrasil scenario of violating securities rules and regulations.

Welcome to the forum buddy but I will advise you to read the forum rules and regulations to avoid your account being ban or penalize because native language is only allowed in the local board.

It is one of the best, but what would be one of your improvements today?

I have a compliant about blockchain .com. they allowed me to invest around £860 of my wheelchair fund have been saving but will not let me spend or transfer my bitcoin steller or my other coin there thus plummeting my investment down to £550.... I was the very first person to use bitcoin i knew it as Satoshi back then I had a mate on the internet called Harold Finney or to some just Hal he was a good bloke  he help  make something you all use today by testing it with me and helping with my white papers you know the protocol  but it down  in  words  for  me  as  I  suffer  with  dyslexia.  more I think  about  it  gets more  harder  to type. So no am not dead well not yet anyway am 58 i live in west yorkshire in halifax . See I use to run server out mu house on win 98 i had xp too i had a server running on 98 its  was WWW wyw  i was the dev on there PD my girl friend at the time is in the key to  me and Hal used its on my old mails to Hal go look for it you will see all the above wyw dev 98 PD etc all in it it was mine and hals finger up to this guy that had got my disk for remounting as it failed  Hal saisd his name was craig and he was red hot at getting data off harddrives as he did it for a living something about working on a dark project all hush hush stuff i never saw my disk again hal advised me to pull out as he had started to get threats and was convinced i was in danger so i did what anyone would do i bailed out only thing is i lost access's to everything have tryed till am blue in the face everything i could to remember keys but heads old i cannot even remember the code for here i was here am sure i was under satoshi but you also know my old email accounts died long ago on viditron etc all that bloody hard work for nothing it still hurts inside that I got nothing now even lost my partner and son thru this hounding me inside my heart see I hate when people say st satoshi because i wanted to sign in since yesterday as the holy leaders meeted as its the marking of the new world our coins will be needed trust me we are still in darktimes sorry about how i type now i past careing been on my own sorry take care all of you be safe dont let them chop at the roots of my tree and kill it will you  look after it all me and hal wanted was people to remember us

The Indian government may soon come with a law that is likely to regulate all cryptocurrencies that are traded in the nation. The investors will only be allowed to trade in digital currency being mooted by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). For more enquiry visit: https://www.managementguru99.com/ (https://www.managementguru99.com/)

https://www.cnbc.com/2021/02/23/investing-billionaire-jhunjhunwala-says-india-should-ban-bitcoin-.html (https://www.cnbc.com/2021/02/23/investing-billionaire-jhunjhunwala-says-india-should-ban-bitcoin-.html/)  ;D , I have friends in India, these issues come up every year, and we are alive and with us Satoshi Nakomoto ;D

Thank you very much. I am very concerned about this thing. Thank god it is just a lie. I will continue to invest in BITCOIN.
Again, Thank you for this valuable information

And hopefully also reiterated the plethora of ways criminals get around 'controls' the banking systems are supposed to have. They know damn well that there is far more money laundering done using fiat than crypto and things will remain that way for many many years to come.

Hey guys! Hope you are doing well!

Sharing a report about the state of art of crypto regulations in different countries in Europe! It seems super useful, worths checking:

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/anthonyjjday_blockchain-crypto-regulatory-overview-activity-7059142397288419329-C--j/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_android

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