DOJ Reportedly Warns Binance May Slow Cooperation in Crypto Crime Investigations

The US Department of Justice (DOJ) reportedly warned prosecutors to expect reduced cooperation from Binance in cryptocurrency investigations, according to The Information.

The reported internal memo suggests investigators may face stricter legal requirements when seeking account freezes and asset seizures. Binance, however, has strongly denied making any changes to its law enforcement cooperation policies.

“There has been and will be no change to Binance’s cooperation with U.S. law enforcement. The opposite of this sentiment is true – we are examining ways to further increase our cooperation. Binance will continue to cooperate with U.S. law enforcement requests in connection with their investigations as normal. Any suggestion that Binance has reduced or is reducing cooperation with law enforcement is wrong,” a Binance spokesperson told BeInCrypto exclusively.

DOJ Memo Signals Tougher Process for Crypto Investigations

According to a report on The Information, the DOJ circulated an internal memo warning attorneys handling digital asset cases that Binance would no longer provide so-called “courtesy freezes” beginning June 8.

The Information: A DOJ memo warned staff to expect less Binance cooperation on crypto cases starting June 8, including no courtesy freezes and MLAT requirements for freezes or seizures. Binance denied any change to its U.S. law enforcement cooperation.

— Wall St Engine (@wallstengine) July 8, 2026

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Courtesy freezes are voluntary, temporary account restrictions that exchanges can apply upon requests from law enforcement or victims while formal legal documentation is obtained.

The memo reportedly states that Binance will instead require Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties (MLATs) or other formal legal processes before processing requests involving account freezes or crypto seizures.

Such a change could significantly slow cross-border investigations, as MLAT procedures often require coordination between multiple governments and can take weeks or months to complete.

Binance Denies Changing Cooperation Policies

However, reports suggest Binance disputed the report, stating that it has not implemented any changes to its cooperation with US law enforcement.

The exchange reportedly said it continues responding to legitimate requests through its established Law Enforcement Request System and remains committed to complying with applicable legal requirements.

The denial comes as Binance remains under heightened regulatory scrutiny following its landmark $4.3 billion settlement with US authorities in 2023, which included enhanced compliance obligations and ongoing independent monitoring.

Why the Report Matters

Even if Binance ultimately maintains its current practices, the reported DOJ memo highlights growing sensitivity around how centralized exchanges cooperate with global law enforcement.

For investigators, the loss of informal account freezes could complicate efforts to quickly secure stolen or illicit crypto before funds move across blockchains or jurisdictions.

Whether the reported policy shift materializes remains unclear, particularly after Binance’s public denial.

Investors and industry participants will likely watch for further clarification from the DOJ, Binance, or additional reporting, as any changes to exchange-law enforcement cooperation could influence future crypto investigations, regulatory oversight, and compliance standards across the digital asset industry.