U. S. Officials Say the Focus is on Crime, Not Crypto Coding

At a virtual Bitcoin 2026 event, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and FBI Director Kash Patel announced that the U. S. government will change its stance on digital money. They said the new approach will protect developers while targeting criminals who misuse crypto. Blanche explained that his own son introduced him to Bitcoin, and he joked about not investing. He noted that, in his role, he cannot own crypto assets. Patel described cryptocurrencies as part of the economy—“just like business and everything else” that gives power to people. When asked about past legal actions, Blanche said earlier administrations had misdirected resources against software creators. He argued that builders should not be treated as criminals, and the focus must stay on actual offenders who use crypto for illegal activities.

Blanche warned that harsh enforcement had pushed some platforms out of the U. S. , harming innovation and preventing enthusiasts from participating. He emphasized that ordinary users will not be prosecuted unless they commit a crime. Patel agreed, highlighting the FBI’s work against fraud rings that use crypto. He said the bureau is looking at the right people so Americans can feel safe buying digital assets. The FBI also aims to stop scams before they reach victims. Both officials noted that the current administration, led by President Trump, is the most pro‑crypto in history. They claim this shift will make the U. S. a global crypto hub and move away from attacking developers. In short, the new policy says: code and Bitcoin are not targets; only criminal use is. Developers can continue building as long as they stay away from fraud, money laundering, or other illegal acts.

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