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Know Your Customer

Definition

Know Your Customer, or KYC, is a process used by businesses to verify the identity of their clients. In the cryptocurrency sector, KYC protocols are mandatory procedures for virtual asset service providers (VASPs), including exchanges and custodial platforms, to collect and verify personal information from users. This typically involves submitting identification documents, proof of address, and sometimes biometric data. The primary goal of KYC is to comply with anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) regulations, preventing illicit activities and enhancing financial transparency.