Blockchain investigators say money launderers received at least $82 billion in cryptocurrencies during 2025, a marked rise from the roughly $10 billion attributed to illicit crypto receipts in 2020. The U.S.-based research firm Chainalysis highlighted that the most rapidly expanding segment of this activity came from Chinese-language laundering networks that emerged during the pandemic.
According to Chainalysis, these Chinese-language networks were handling almost $40 million worth of cryptocurrency per day in 2025. The research firm identified nearly 1,800 active wallets that were used by these networks to process a total of $16.1 billion in crypto during the year, while cautioning that its estimates are likely conservative.
Chainalysis declined to provide specific details of its methodology when asked, but directed inquiries to material published on its website. That material states the company connects real-world activity to blockchain records using a combination of machine learning tools and forensic analysts.
Blockchain ledgers record wallet addresses involved in transactions, which enables tracing of flows on-chain. However, identifying the individuals or entities behind those addresses remains challenging, Chainalysis noted. The firm also described a set of techniques employed by crypto laundering networks to evade detection, including the use of so-called "guarantee" platforms.
"Chinese-language guarantee platforms, money movement services and associated financial crime networks reveal a complex and resilient ecosystem that continues to adapt despite enforcement efforts," Chainalysis said. "As with other genres of illicit on-chain activity, actions against guarantee services can be disruptive, but the core networks persist and migrate to alternative channels when challenged."
Chainalysis explained that guarantee platforms act as escrow services that enable money launderers to advertise their services and coordinate funds movement. These platforms are cited as one method by which illicit actors obscure the origin and destination of cryptocurrency funds.
The report also noted the regulatory backdrop in China, where crypto trading is banned and digital tokens are not recognized as legal tender or assets. In 2024, Chinese authorities sued 3,032 people in connection with crypto-related money laundering, according to the country’s top procurator.
Regulators and law enforcement worldwide have repeatedly warned about cryptocurrencies' potential role in facilitating criminal activity, in part because crypto assets typically face less specific regulatory coverage than traditional financial instruments. Chainalysis and other experts emphasize that crypto-based laundering is one of several mechanisms criminals use to move funds, rather than the sole channel.
The Chainalysis findings underline both the growth of illicit on-chain activity and the persistent challenges faced by investigators and regulators attempting to identify and disrupt these networks.