FSB raids Moscow unregistered crypto exchanges, detains 20+ over alleged fraud and laundering

Russian security services conducted raids on nine unregistered crypto exchange services in Moscow, with the Federal Security Service (FSB) stating that the platforms were used to convert proceeds tied to alleged fraud into digital currency and move the funds abroad. In total, authorities detained more than 20 individuals, according to reports citing an FSB statement and the Interior Ministry’s participation in the operation ^{[1] [2]}.

Multiple outlets characterized the action as part of a broader fraud crackdown, reporting that suspects were apprehended during raids at locations including the Moscow International Business Center and that the case is being pursued on fraud-related grounds. Separate coverage also described the shutdown as reflecting heightened regulatory scrutiny, and noted that the operation occurred as new Russian crypto-market rules were under development or implementation ^{[3] [4]}.

Authorities have not described a licensing dispute in the reporting, instead framing the investigation around alleged fraud-related activity and the alleged use of unregistered exchange services to facilitate illicit financial flows ^{[1] [2]}.