# When an exchange freezes your withdrawals

Document balances and support tickets immediately. Check the FCA register and warning list. Report to Action Fraud if you suspect fraud. Consider legal advice for large amounts — recovery is uncertain.

## Key facts
- No FSCS for crypto.
- Compliance holds can last weeks.
- Insolvency may mean total loss.
- Report clone/scam firms to FCA.
- Do not pay 'release fees'.

## Compliance holds

Exchanges may freeze withdrawals pending Travel Rule checks or enhanced due diligence. Respond only via official in-app support.
## Insolvency risk

If a platform stops communicating broadly, customers often become unsecured creditors. Historical examples include long waits with partial recovery at best.
## Immediate actions

Screenshot balances, download statements, note dates. Report unauthorised firms to the FCA. Warn others but beware recovery scammers contacting you next.

## FAQs
### Can the FCA get my crypto back?

The FCA does not compensate individual crypto losses. It may take enforcement action against firms.

## Sources

- [FCA — Cryptoassets for consumers](https://www.fca.org.uk/consumers/cryptoassets)
- [Action Fraud](https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/)

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— Digital Assets UK (https://digital-assets.co.uk/buying/exchange-withdrawal-freeze/), reviewed 2026-06-23. Source: https://www.fca.org.uk/consumers/cryptoassets