Russia Brings Crypto Under Criminal Code With New Seizure Law

• Vladimir Putin signed a law formally recognizing cryptocurrencies as intangible property.
• The new amendment will allow courts to seize crypto in criminal cases.
• The move comes as Russia weighs blocking foreign crypto exchanges.

Vladimir Putin has signed a law granting Russian courts formal authority to seize cryptocurrencies in criminal investigations.

The amendment to Russia’s Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code recognizes crypto assets as intangible property. This changes the status of digital assets from a gray area into defined legal territory.

Previously, authorities relied on legal precedent to confiscate Bitcoin, Ethereum, and altcoins. Now, the procedures are written directly into law. 

As per reports, Deputy Justice Minister Elena Ardabyeva said the legislation codifies existing seizure practices and creates legal grounds for cooperation with foreign crypto exchanges.

Courts Gain Direct Wallet Control

Under the law, police or prosecutors requesting seizure must specify the type and quantity of tokens, along with wallet addresses.

In some cases, assets can be transferred to government-controlled wallets. Bailiffs are authorized to execute those transfers. The government will define storage and transfer procedures.

This creates a structured pipeline that would include wallet identification, documentation of token amount, court approval, and then transfer to a state-controlled address.

Broader Regulatory Push

The bill lands as Moscow accelerates crypto regulation. The State Duma is drafting additional laws that would force traders to use domestic platforms or exchanges with a physical presence in Russia.

Experts warn the Kremlin may block access to foreign crypto exchanges this year. Belarus’ model, which restricts unlicensed foreign platforms without fully eliminating access, is reportedly under review.

Olga Tisen, rector of the V.M. Lebedev Russian State University of Justice, said crypto-related crime has become a major challenge for courts. 

Russia currently lacks systematic training programs for lawyers handling digital asset cases. The university has launched the country’s first master’s program in cryptocurrency law in response.

Meanwhile, the new seizure law signals a two-track approach. First, define crypto as property and give courts direct control. Second, tighten exchange access and domestic oversight.

It is important to note that Russia is not banning crypto but is formalizing control over it. In criminal probes, digital assets are no longer outside the legal system. They are now fully within it.

Related: Russia Weighs Blocking Foreign Crypto Exchanges as Domestic Rules Advance