Definition ∞ FinCEN Special Measures are extraordinary regulatory actions taken by the US Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network. These measures, authorized under Section 311 of the USA PATRIOT Act, permit FinCEN to impose various restrictions on financial institutions to counter money laundering and terrorist financing risks. They can range from enhanced recordkeeping and reporting requirements to outright prohibitions on certain transactions or accounts. These actions are typically directed at foreign jurisdictions, institutions, or transaction types deemed to pose significant illicit finance threats.
Context ∞ FinCEN Special Measures have been applied to virtual currency mixers and other digital asset services identified as facilitating illicit finance, drawing considerable attention in crypto news. The potential for these measures to impact digital asset flows and operational models remains a significant regulatory concern for firms operating in the US and globally.