AML Check for Cryptocurrency: What It Is and Why You Need It
AML Check for Cryptocurrency: What It Is and Why You Need It
You bring cryptocurrency to an exchange, and they say: "order suspended for AML check." What does this mean? Why does it happen? And what to do if your coins are "dirty"? Let's break it down.
What Is AML?
AML stands for Anti-Money Laundering. A cryptocurrency AML check is an analysis of the transaction history of coins you want to exchange. The goal is to verify that the cryptocurrency is not connected to criminal activity.
How Does AML Scoring Work?
Specialized services (Crystal Blockchain, Chainalysis, Elliptic) analyze each transaction and assign coins a risk rating from 0 to 100:
- 0–25% — Low risk. Clean coins, no issues with exchange
- 26–50% — Medium risk. Exchange may request source confirmation
- 51–75% — High risk. Order suspended, documents required
- 76–100% — Critical risk. Exchange refused, possible blocking
What Gets Blocked?
The system tracks whether coins were connected to: darknet markets, scam projects and phishing, sanctioned addresses (OFAC SDN list), hacker thefts, gambling sites, and mixers/tumblers (Tornado Cash).
How to Check Your Coins
- Visit AMLBot (amlbot.com) or GetBlock AML
- Enter the transaction hash or wallet address
- Get a report broken down by sources
- If risk exceeds 50% — don't attempt to exchange without explanation
What to Do With High-Risk Coins?
If you received "dirty" coins accidentally (e.g., for services or selling goods) — you have grounds to explain. Reputable exchanges review each case individually. You'll need to provide: documents on funds origin, identity verification, and a detailed explanation.
Conclusion
AML is not an attempt to complicate your life. It's protection of the entire financial system from criminal money. If you buy cryptocurrency on verified exchanges — your risk score will be low and there will be no problems.