Definition ∞ On-Chain Surveillance refers to the monitoring and analysis of publicly available transaction data and activity recorded on a blockchain ledger. This practice involves tracking asset flows, identifying addresses, and detecting patterns of behavior to understand network usage or investigate suspicious activities. It is often employed by law enforcement, compliance firms, and analytics companies. The transparent nature of most public blockchains facilitates this form of observation.
Context ∞ On-Chain Surveillance is a frequently discussed topic in crypto news, particularly concerning privacy, regulatory compliance, and anti-money laundering efforts. While it aids in preventing illicit activities, it also raises questions about user anonymity and data protection. The ongoing debate balances the need for financial oversight with the foundational principles of decentralization and user privacy in the digital asset space.
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