US Seeks Forfeiture of $2.4M in Bitcoin from Ransomware Group

The US Department of Justice is requesting the forfeiture of approximately 20.2 BTC, about $2.4 million, seized from the Chaos ransomware group on July 29, 2025.

The move highlights the ongoing effort to curtail illicit crypto operations but has had negligible effects on Bitcoin markets.

The US Department of Justice, alongside FBI and Texas prosecutors, aims to seize $2.4M in Bitcoin from the Chaos ransomware group. The Bitcoin, totaling approximately 20.2 BTC, was allegedly amassed through ransomware activities.

The FBI conducted the operation to seize the assets, while Texas prosecutors and the DOJ had pivotal roles in pursuing the civil forfeiture action. This initiative signals increased scrutiny towards cyber crimes involving cryptocurrencies.

Tom Brown, Cybercrime Analyst, FBI, – “This seizure of Bitcoin is just one part of our ongoing efforts to combat cyber threats and recover proceeds from illicit activities.”

Despite the seizure, the global Bitcoin market felt no disruptions, with on-chain data showing no significant shifts. The relatively minor amount was too small compared to Bitcoin’s total market cap, thus causing no liquidity changes.

Such seizures demonstrate law enforcement’s focus on dismantling illicit crypto activities but have not dictated any regulatory wave or major market fluctuations. Past actions, like the $225M USDT confiscation, echo this pattern, maintaining a market-neutral stance.

Experts anticipate continued vigilance on ransomware-related operations without resulting in larger financial or regulatory turmoil. Historical trends suggest these forfeitures deepen law enforcement’s resolve against cyber financial crimes, fostering a cleaner trading environment.