Iranian Cryptocurrency: What’s Really Happening with Crypto in Iran
When people talk about Iranian cryptocurrency, the use of digital currencies by individuals and businesses in Iran to navigate economic isolation and currency collapse. Also known as crypto in Iran, it’s not just a trend—it’s a survival tool for millions. With the Iranian rial losing over 80% of its value since 2018, many turned to Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies to protect their savings. Unlike banks, crypto doesn’t need government approval to send or receive money. And while the state bans private crypto exchanges, it can’t stop people from using wallets or peer-to-peer platforms.
What makes Iranian cryptocurrency, the use of digital currencies by individuals and businesses in Iran to navigate economic isolation and currency collapse. Also known as crypto in Iran, it’s not just a trend—it’s a survival tool for millions. so unique is how it’s being used differently than in other countries. In Iran, crypto isn’t mainly for speculation. It’s for buying medicine, sending remittances from abroad, paying for online services, and even buying food. The government even tried to create its own digital currency, the digital rial, a state-backed digital version of the Iranian rial intended to replace cash and increase financial control. Also known as e-rial, it’s been slow to roll out and faces deep public distrust. Meanwhile, Iranians use decentralized networks like LocalBitcoins and Paxful to trade directly with others, often in cash or via mobile money. Some even mine Bitcoin using cheap electricity—despite official crackdowns on mining rigs.
There’s a big gap between what the law says and what people actually do. While the Central Bank of Iran bans crypto trading, it still licenses mining operations for export. That means crypto is legal if it’s for profit abroad, but illegal if it’s for personal use at home. This contradiction creates a shadow economy where people rely on Telegram bots, encrypted apps, and trusted friends to trade safely. The result? Iran has one of the highest crypto adoption rates in the world—even higher than the U.S. in some surveys. And yet, users face real risks: arrests, asset seizures, and scams disguised as government-approved platforms.
What you’ll find in the posts below are real stories, scams exposed, and tools people actually use. From how Iranians bypass restrictions using VPNs and P2P networks, to why a fake exchange called "Certified Coins" targets them, to how global tax rules like CRS affect crypto users in Tehran. There’s no fluff here—just what works, what fails, and what you need to know if you’re in Iran—or trying to understand it.
VPN Usage for Crypto in Iran: Detection Risks for Traders
Iranians rely on VPNs to trade crypto amid strict financial controls, but detection risks have skyrocketed in 2025. Exchanges now track behavior, wallet history, and device fingerprints-making VPNs less effective and more dangerous than ever.
- November 22 2025
- Terri DeLange
- 15 Comments