DOJ Warns Binance May Stop Courtesy Freezes Starting June 8, Require MLATs

According to The Information, the U.S. Department of Justice warned prosecutors on July 8, 2026, that Binance would stop providing so-called courtesy freezes beginning June 8, instead requiring Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties (MLATs) for account freezes and asset seizures. Binance, however, denied any policy change, stating it "has not and will not" alter its law enforcement cooperation and continues responding to legitimate requests.

Courtesy freezes are voluntary, temporary account restrictions exchanges apply upon law enforcement requests while formal legal documentation is obtained. The shift to MLAT requirements could significantly slow cross-border investigations, as such procedures often require coordination between multiple governments and can take weeks or months to complete.