U.K. banking giant Chase has announced a blanket ban on the purchase of cryptocurrencies by its customers, citing fraud fears as its primary reason. The move by the banking behemoth is seen as a significant step in the growing regulatory scrutiny of the crypto sector.

Chase UK Bans Crypto Purchases

Chase UK, one of the largest banks in the United Kingdom, has announced a blanket ban on the purchase of cryptocurrencies by its customers. The news, first reported by the Financial Times, sent shockwaves through the cryptocurrency market, as the move by one of the largest banks in the U.K. was seen as a significant step in the growing regulatory scrutiny of the crypto sector.

The bank stated that fraud worries were the primary reason for the ban. In a statement, Chase UK said that it was taking the stance of not allowing customers to purchase cryptocurrencies due to the “volatility and the unpredictable nature of the underlying market” which could result in “significant losses” for its customers.

The bank also stated that it had previously suspended some customers’ accounts due to suspected fraud, despite the bank not being able to provide concrete evidence to back up its claims. The bank has since reversed the decision, allowing customers to access their accounts again.

Fraud Fears Cited as Reason

The decision by Chase UK to ban cryptocurrency purchases by its customers has been met with mixed reactions. While some have praised the bank’s move, citing the increasing fraud and money laundering concerns in the space, others have pointed out the potential negative implications for the sector.

Cryptocurrency advocates have been quick to point out the move will limit consumer access to cryptocurrency, and could lead to fewer people investing in the market. They have also argued that the decision by the banking giant is overly restrictive, and could hinder innovation in the sector.

The decision by Chase UK to ban cryptocurrency purchases is significant, as the banking giant is one of the largest banks in the United Kingdom. It will be interesting to see if other banks follow suit and if the move will have any long-term implications for the cryptocurrency industry.