SEC Unveils New Crypto Crime Unit to Tackle Fraud and Cyber Threats

In Brief:

The SEC launches the Cyber and Emerging Technologies Unit to combat crypto-related crime.

The unit, led by attorney Laura D’Allaird, replaces the former Crypto Assets and Cyber Unit.

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The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has announced the creation of a specialized unit aimed at cracking down on crypto-related fraud while ensuring a more innovation-friendly approach under the new administration.

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Named the Cyber and Emerging Technologies Unit, this division will replace the Crypto Assets and Cyber Unit, bringing together 30 fraud specialists and legal experts from across the SEC. The unit will target crimes involving blockchain, cryptocurrency, AI-driven scams, and hacking, including schemes conducted through social media and the dark web.

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Under Acting Chairman Mark T. Uyeda, the SEC is shifting away from its previous aggressive enforcement stance, signaling a more balanced regulatory approach to crypto markets. However, the new unit will continue to investigate bad actors while working alongside Commissioner Hester Peirce’s crypto task force to establish clearer industry guidelines.

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