Crypto transactions tied to trafficking surge 85% in 2025

Chainalysis found crypto transactions tied to human trafficking surged 85% in 2025, reaching hundreds of millions of dollars. Bitcoin, stablecoins, and privacy coins are commonly used.

Chainalysis reported an 85% surge in cryptocurrency transactions linked to suspected human trafficking services in 2025, with total flows reaching hundreds of millions of dollars. The 2026 Crypto Crime Report highlights that these transactions are tied to international escort services, labor recruitment scams in Southeast Asia, prostitution networks, and vendors of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Payment methods include Bitcoin, stablecoins, and privacy coins like Monero. CSAM sites often use U.S.-based hosting infrastructure. The report also notes that the rise in crypto-facilitated trafficking coincides with the growth of online casinos, gambling sites, and Chinese-language money laundering networks, many operating via Telegram. Despite the increase in illicit activity, blockchain transparency may help law enforcement track and disrupt these networks. The findings underscore the complex role of cryptocurrencies in both enabling and combating human trafficking.