# Circular 004/2024: cryptoasset confiscation order provisions

Criminal law update (26 April 2024): The Home Office published Circular 004/2024 on cryptoasset confiscation orders — powers used in serious crime cases, not routine tax disputes. We summarise why it matters for understanding UK enforcement; solicitors should read the full circular on gov.uk.

## What confiscation orders are

Courts can order confiscation of criminal proceeds after conviction. Crypto presents tracing challenges; Circular 004/2024 explains how provisions apply when assets are held in wallets or on exchanges.

## Why crypto holders should know

Legitimate holders are unaffected day-to-day. The circular matters for understanding UK enforcement capability and why exchanges may freeze accounts when law enforcement requests it.

## Sources

- [Primary source](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/circular-0042024-cryptoasset-confiscation-order-provisions)

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— Digital Assets UK (https://digital-assets.co.uk/news/circular-004-2024-cryptoasset-confiscation-order-provisions/), reviewed 2024-04-26. Source: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/circular-0042024-cryptoasset-confiscation-order-provisions