NY AG Orders 2 Crypto Firms to Shut Down, Investigates 3 Others

The New York attorney general’s office has accused two unnamed crypto lending platforms operating in the state of engaging in illegal activities and asked three others for information about their dealings.

On February 18, the New York attorney general’s office announced that it had requested two crypto-lending platforms – at the time of publication, the name still being edited – to “cease all and all such activities” that involve the sale or offer of securities and goods included within ten days. Attorney General Letitia James also asked three crypto companies operating in New York – with changed names – for detailed information on loan products, policies, procedures, customers in the state, and other relevant information.

“My office is responsible for making sure companies in the industry don’t take advantage of unsuspecting investors,” said James. “We have taken action against several crypto and crypto platforms involved in fraudulent or illegal activity in New York. Today’s actions build on that work and signal that we will not hesitate to take all necessary action against any company that claims to meet the rule of law.

Requests for information from the three companies are not legally binding, but the AG office left the delivery of subpoenas open in the letter. The shutdown order is backed by the state’s Martin Act, which gives the AG enforcement powers to bring civil or criminal charges against unregistered securities offers.

James’ message to five crypto lending platforms comes after Bitfinex and Tether agreed to pay $ 18.5 million in damages as part of a settlement with New York-based Office AG. The attorney general then warned companies in the crypto industry: “Follow the rules or we’ll shut you down.”

In accordance with applicable New York State law, all crypto brokers, traders, sellers, and investment advisers must register with the AG’s Investor Protection Bureau when doing business in the state. Those who are not exempted who do not do so will be prosecuted under civil and criminal law.

Related:New York attorney general warns crypto investors and corporations of “extreme risk”

In September, the New York attorney general ordered the closure of crypto-investment platform Coinseed after allegedly defrauding investors of more than $ 1 million and selling an unlisted token. Coinseed has been ordered to permanently cease operations and pay a $ 3 million fine.