CRIMINOLOGICAL RISKS OF CRYPTO-CURRENCIES: MAIN TRENDS AND FORECASTS

Abstract

The article analyzes the main risks of the appearance of a new financial instrument - crypto currency. It is noted that one of the main difficulties of the current state of affairs, which allows the criminalized segment of the crypto market to grow, is the lack of legal regulation in this area. The author emphasizes that at present neither in Russia nor in the world there is no single approach to a new financial instrument, its characteristics have not been determined, rules for functioning of the market and security have not been developed, moreover, science has not yet presented its vision of problems and has not offered methodical support. All this contributes to the development of crypto-crime, the definition of which was suggested by the author. The work analyzes the crimes related to the use of virtual currency. The main attention is paid to the use of crypto currency in the framework of legalization of criminal proceeds, financing of terrorism and theft of property. Based on expert assessments, the author reveals the main trends in the development of crypto-crime and forms forecasts for its qualitative and quantitative transformation. The author offers priority areas of legal regulation of new financial instruments that could ensure the safety of market participants and its evolution in the interests of the country's development.