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The European Union is cracking down on crypto privacy. Starting in 2027, the EU will ban anonymous cryptocurrency accounts and privacy coins like Monero and Zcash. This is part of a new set of strict anti-money laundering (AML) rules.
No More Anonymous Crypto
The rules are part of the EU’s Anti-Money Laundering Regulation (AMLR). These laws say that crypto platforms, banks, and financial institutions can no longer offer anonymous accounts or handle privacy-focused coins.
That means no more accounts hiding your name. And no more using privacy coins to send money quietly.
The European Crypto Initiative (EUCI) explained in their AML Handbook that the law bans “accounts allowing anonymisation of transactions” and those using “anonymity-enhancing coins.”
Monero and Zcash are the most well-known privacy coins. They hide your transaction history, making it almost impossible to track.
📘 Privacy coins: Cryptocurrencies designed to hide transaction info from the public.
The Rules Are Final—Sort Of
Vyara Savova, a senior policy lead at EUCI, said the main laws are done. But details are still being finalized through “delegated acts.” These are EU-level decisions made by regulators, not lawmakers.
The European Banking Authority will handle most of this fine print. The EUCI is still giving feedback on the details.
So while the rules are clear, crypto firms still have time to prepare their policies before 2027.
Who’s Watching the Watchers?
A new agency called AMLA (Anti-Money Laundering Authority) will directly supervise the big crypto players. To get on AMLA’s radar, a platform must have:
At least 20,000 users in an EU country
Or €50 million+ in transaction volume
AMLA will start picking these firms in July 2027. They plan to select 40 major platforms—one from each EU member state, at minimum.
If you’re moving more than €1,000 ($1,100), expect mandatory ID checks. No exceptions.
Not Just Crypto—The EU Wants Total Oversight
This isn’t only about anonymous wallets. The AMLR package also targets traditional banks, safe deposit boxes, and even “self-hosted wallets” when they interact with services.
The MiCA law (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation) adds even more rules. It forces crypto companies to get licensed, be transparent about risks, and stop market manipulation.
There’s even an environmental twist: large crypto firms must report their energy use.
Why It Matters
Supporters say this protects consumers and keeps criminals out. Critics say the EU just wants more control. After all, if they can trace it—they can tax it.
🧠 Travel Rule: A rule that says info about the sender and receiver must “travel” with the crypto transaction.
Like it or not, privacy in crypto is disappearing fast in Europe. The EU isn’t just regulating—it’s reshaping the future of digital money.
