OFAC Designation List

Definition ∞ The OFAC Designation List, primarily the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List, identifies individuals, entities, and addresses with whom United States persons are generally prohibited from conducting financial transactions. Maintained by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control, this list serves as a critical tool for enforcing economic sanctions. Compliance with this list is mandatory to prevent illicit financial activities and support national security objectives. Violations can incur severe penalties.
Context ∞ The OFAC Designation List is frequently referenced in cryptocurrency news regarding regulatory compliance, anti-money laundering (AML) efforts, and sanctions enforcement within the digital asset sector. Virtual asset service providers must implement robust screening procedures to ensure they do not facilitate transactions with listed individuals or entities. Recent updates to the list, including cryptocurrency addresses, prompt discussions about the challenges and advancements in tracing illicit funds on public blockchains.