Cryptocurrency Illegal in Algeria: Laws, Risks, and What You Need to Know

When it comes to cryptocurrency, digital money that operates without a central bank or government control. Also known as digital currency, it's banned outright in Algeria under a 2018 decree by the central bank. The ban isn’t just a warning—it’s a legal prohibition. Any transaction, trading, mining, or even holding crypto is considered illegal under Algerian financial law. This isn’t a gray area. The Banque d’Algérie made it clear: no one, not even foreign platforms, can operate crypto services in the country.

Why such a strict stance? Algeria’s government fears losing control over its currency, the Algerian dinar, and worries about money laundering, capital flight, and unregulated financial activity. Unlike countries that regulate crypto, Algeria chose to shut it down completely. There are no licensed exchanges, no legal wallets, and no official guidance for users. If you’re caught using Bitcoin, Ethereum, or any other coin, you could face fines, asset seizures, or even criminal charges. This isn’t hypothetical—there have been arrests and prosecutions.

Related to this are the crypto enforcement Algeria, the system of monitoring and penalizing crypto use by citizens and businesses, and the Algeria crypto ban, the official government policy that prohibits all forms of digital currency activity. These aren’t just policies—they’re active, enforced rules. Banks monitor transactions for signs of crypto-related payments. Internet service providers are required to block access to known crypto exchanges. Even using a VPN to access Binance or Coinbase can trigger scrutiny.

What about people who still trade? Some do, using peer-to-peer platforms or offshore wallets, but they’re taking serious risks. There’s no legal recourse if you get scammed. No protection if your wallet is hacked. No way to report fraud. And if you’re caught, you’re on your own. Unlike Tunisia or Egypt, where crypto is restricted but not fully outlawed, Algeria leaves no room for interpretation. The law is absolute.

There’s no sign the ban will change anytime soon. No political movement is pushing for legalization. No financial institution is lobbying for reform. The central bank has doubled down, even blocking domain names and app stores from listing crypto-related tools. If you’re in Algeria, your only legal option is to stick with the dinar. Anything else puts you at risk.

Below, you’ll find real cases, analysis of enforcement patterns, and what happens when people get caught. These aren’t theoretical scenarios—they’re documented outcomes from people who tried to use crypto in a country where it’s not just discouraged, but criminalized.