UK Issues Alert on A7 Network Linked to Russia

The UK has expanded its crackdown on payment networks linked to Russia. On August 31, the National Crime Agency issued an alert about A7, advising banks and crypto companies to investigate Russian-related transactions.

A7 is a cross-border settlement network that uses financial institutions in third countries, SWIFT, and other international payment structures to help Russian clients move funds while bypassing sanctions. The network claims to have processed over $86 billion in its first year.

The warning also broadens the focus of compliance teams beyond traditional name screening against lists. Authorities cited intermediary wallets, transaction hashes, decentralized exchanges, mixers, and other signs of increased scrutiny.