From Krebsonsecurity · · 1m 20s
U.K. Sanctions Cryptomus for RU Money Laundering
U.K. sanctions Cryptomus after it processed $7bn in ransomware and cybercrime payments for Russia.
In brief
U.K. sanctions Cryptomus after it processed $7bn in ransomware and cybercrime payments for Russia. The U.K. has sanctioned Cryptomus for processing payments benefiting Russia's government and financial institutions, freezing its assets and banning British companies from using it. Originally reported by Krebsonsecurity.
U.K. Sanctions Cryptomus
The U.K. issued economic sanctions against Cryptomus for processing payments that benefit the Russian government and its financial institutions.
Cryptomus Background
Cryptomus, previously known as Certa Payments and Xeltox Enterprises, has changed its name several times since emerging in 2022.
Heleket Launch
In April 2026, Cryptomus launched Heleket after Canada levied a CAD $176 million fine for anti-money laundering violations.
Illicit Transactions
Cryptomus processed more than $7 billion in transactions since 2022, including payments for child sexual abuse material vendors and terrorist financing.
Chainalysis Report
Chainalysis reported that Cryptomus and Heleket received more illicit funds than mixers and had over 900 illicit counterparties in late 2025.
Sanctions Impact
The U.K. sanctions freeze Cryptomus assets at U.K. banks and bar British companies from offering it any business, virtual or otherwise.
Western Sahara Connection
Cryptomus’s parent company is linked to the Western Sahara Central Reserve Authority, which oversees cryptocurrency licenses in a disputed region.
The key point
The U.K. has sanctioned Cryptomus for processing payments benefiting Russia's government and financial institutions, freezing its assets and banning British companies from using it.
