India Tightens Crypto Rules with Selfie Verification and Geo-Tracking
India’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) has imposed stringent anti-money laundering measures on cryptocurrency exchanges, mandating live selfie verification with liveness detection and geolocation tracking. The new rules require exchanges to confirm user identities through bank account test transfers, multi-factor ID checks, and validated contact details.
These enhanced KYC protocols aim to curb illicit activity while preserving legal crypto trading—a delicate balance for a nation that has oscillated between hostility and cautious acceptance toward digital assets. The regulations may slow onboarding but signal India’s preference for controlled adoption over outright prohibition.
Market observers note the measures align with global trends of tightening crypto oversight without stifling innovation. Exchanges operating in India must now implement real-time IP logging and coordinate verification across government databases—a technical hurdle that could temporarily disrupt trading volumes.