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Pilot program initiated by Korean police sees seizure of crypto for unpaid traffic fines

A South Korean town has been successfully operating a pilot program that allows police to seize crypto from the exchange accounts of individuals with delinquent traffic fines.

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A South Korean town has been successfully operating a pilot program that allows police to seize crypto from the exchange accounts of individuals with delinquent traffic fines.

Gunpo, a city in the northwestern Gyeonggi province, was selected by the national government to execute the pilot program in 2022. The program appears to have been successful, at least in the first half of 2022, with Gunpo police achieving an 88% collection rate on traffic fines amounting to $668,000, putting the city on pace to vastly exceed its goal of chasing $759,000 in traffic fines by the end of the year.

However, the trial only saw delinquent fines totaling an excess of about $759 by an individual subject to crypto seizures by the police, while crypto seizures were only a measure taken if the funds in the individual’s bank accounts have already been exhausted. 

Jungo Ilbo reported that the fines collected through the first half already exceed the total annual collections over each of the past three years.

The Korean crypto market is a lucrative one for law enforcement to extract fines from as it grew to $45.9 billion in 2021, though the report did not state which crypto would be seized and sold to pay fines.

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Bitcoin price risks drop to $71K as Trump tariffs hurt US business outlook

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Bitcoin is setting its sights on the $71,000 mark as market conditions shift in response to geopolitical and economic developments, including a new tariff agreement and weakening U.S. business sentiment.

Recent market activity suggests that Bitcoin is benefiting from concerns over traditional economic indicators, with investors turning to digital assets as a hedge against economic uncertainty. A rare slump in U.S. business outlook has fueled speculation that risk assets, including Bitcoin, could see increased inflows.

Additionally, ongoing global trade negotiations and tariff adjustments have contributed to market volatility, prompting investors to seek alternative stores of value. Analysts suggest that if macroeconomic pressures persist, Bitcoin could continue its upward trajectory, potentially testing the $71,000 resistance level.

Despite short-term fluctuations, Bitcoin remains a focal point for investors navigating inflation concerns, regulatory shifts, and global economic trends. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether Bitcoin can sustain its momentum and break through key price barriers.

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Crypto donations top $1B in 2024, gain traction after Myanmar, Thailand quake

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Changpeng “CZ” Zhao, the former CEO of Binance, has donated 1,000 BNB to aid relief efforts following a powerful earthquake that struck the Thailand-Myanmar border region. The donation, valued at approximately $600,000, aims to support those affected by the disaster and assist in recovery operations.

The earthquake caused significant damage in several areas, displacing residents and impacting local infrastructure. CZ’s contribution highlights the growing role of cryptocurrency in humanitarian aid, providing fast and transparent relief funding.

The donation will be distributed to organizations working on the ground to deliver emergency assistance, including shelter, food, and medical supplies. Crypto-based aid is increasingly being utilized in disaster response efforts due to its efficiency in reaching affected communities without the delays of traditional banking systems.

As the affected regions begin the recovery process, the crypto community continues to demonstrate how blockchain technology can play a meaningful role in global humanitarian initiatives.

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Hackers are selling counterfeit phones with crypto-stealing malware

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Security researchers have uncovered a wave of counterfeit Android devices preloaded with malware designed to steal cryptocurrency, posing a significant threat to users worldwide. The infected devices, which mimic popular smartphone brands, contain malicious software capable of hijacking digital wallets and siphoning funds.

The malware, embedded at the firmware level, allows attackers to gain remote access, intercept sensitive data, and execute unauthorized transactions. Because the malicious code is deeply integrated into the device’s operating system, it is difficult to detect and remove, making it a persistent threat.

Cybersecurity experts warn that unsuspecting buyers may unknowingly expose their crypto holdings to risk by purchasing these compromised devices from unverified sellers. Users are urged to exercise caution by only purchasing smartphones from trusted retailers and manufacturers.

The discovery highlights the growing sophistication of cybercriminals targeting the cryptocurrency sector. As mobile-based crypto transactions become more common, security measures such as hardware wallet usage and multi-factor authentication are increasingly essential to safeguard digital assets from emerging threats.

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