RUSI Crypto and International Security Taskforce
Examining the growing role of crypto and digital assets in the global security landscape and strengthening the policy response to the threats and opportunities it presents.
State and non-state actors are making growing use of cryptoassets to evade sanctions, launder proceeds and finance illicit activity. Estimates show that sanctioned entities received $104 billion in crypto in 2025, a 694% year-on-year increase. Organised crime groups are also exploiting regulatory gaps to move billions in illicit proceeds through crypto, and the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has flagged an emerging risk of criminal networks developing their own stablecoins designed to resist freezing and seizure. Cryptoassets' speed and pseudonymity are also raising concerns over their potential use for political interference, including undisclosed foreign funding of political activity.
However, cryptoassets are not solely a security threat. They provide access to finance where conventional financial services are unavailable. Stablecoins can also be increasingly used by humanitarian organisations to deliver aid where conventional banking channels are unreliable.
Overview
To address these complexities and overall implications for the global security landscape, the Crypto and International Security Taskforce brings together government officials, academics private sector actors and practitioners for a tailored debate on the security risks and opportunities presented by cryptoassets through a series of events.
Aims and objectives
The Taskforce aims to examine how the use of cryptoassets are shaping international security, and to translate that understanding into practical recommendations for policymakers, regulators, law enforcement and industry.
Its objectives are to:
- Build a shared understanding of how state and non-state actors are exploiting cryptoassets for sanctions evasion, terrorist financing, organised crime, fraud, political interference, ransomware and other threats to national and international security.
 - Identify current threats and risks related to cryptoassets, and horizon-scan emerging risks on the near-term policy agenda.
 - Assess the effectiveness by regulatory, law enforcement, intelligence and industry to existing threats and identify where further action or improved public-private cooperation could strengthen disruption efforts.
 - Examine the legitimate and protective uses of cryptoassets, including their role in supporting civil society, humanitarian aid and financial access, and how these could be better recognised and supported.
The RUSI Crypto and International Security Taskforce operates with the financial support of Chainalysis.
