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Unlicensed Crypto Platforms in Türkiye: Risks and Sanctions

Savun Law & Consultancy · Updated 30 October 2026

Unlicensed Crypto Platforms in Türkiye: Risks and Sanctions

In Türkiye, crypto services can be offered only by platforms authorised by the SPK. Using an unlicensed platform carries serious risks for both the investor and the operator. The subject is covered in this article for information purposes.

⚠️ Sanctions for the Operator

Offering crypto asset services without authorisation is subject to severe sanctions under capital markets legislation. Unlicensed activity is regulated as an offence that can lead to consequences such as imprisonment and administrative fines.

🧮 Risks for the Investor

  • No segregation of client assets and no supervisory safeguard
  • Withdrawal problems and the risk of losing access
  • Difficulty finding a counterparty in a dispute
  • Uncertainty over tax and reporting

🔎 How to Stay Protected

The most reliable step is to verify the SPK authorisation of the platform used. For choosing an authorised platform, see our article on how to tell an SPK-licensed exchange. Before using any platform, it is also worth checking whether it is authorised by the regulator in your own country (for example the FCA, ASIC or SEC).

In short: An unlicensed platform means criminal and administrative sanctions for the operator and, for the investor, a lack of safeguards and a risk of losing access. Verifying authorisation is essential.

🔗 Related Topics

For the general framework, see our guide to crypto law.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is trading on an unlicensed platform an offence?

Providing unauthorised services is regulated as an offence; the sanctions are aimed mainly at the party providing the service, but the investor also takes on serious risk.

My money is stuck on an unlicensed platform. What are the options?

Problems with access and finding a counterparty may arise. For detailed information, you can contact Savun Law & Consultancy.

Is a foreign exchange also treated as unlicensed?

Platforms without authority in Türkiye are assessed within this scope; other consequences may also arise for tax and compliance.

How is a safe platform chosen?

Verifying the platform's SPK authorisation from official sources is the most reliable way.

For detailed information and legal support, you can contact Savun Law & Consultancy.

The information in this article may not be up to date or entirely accurate. Savun Law & Consultancy cannot be held responsible for any application, complaint or defence made on the basis of this article.

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This page is an English adaptation of our Turkish article Lisanssız Kripto Platformunun Riskleri ve Yaptırımları.

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