London orders HTX block for illegal crypto activities

HTX is in trouble. The British regulator wants to cut off access to the crypto platform immediately.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has ordered internet providers to block HTX by February 10, 2026. The platform has been operating without authorization for months in the UK, marketing its crypto products without adhering to local regulations. Authorities discovered that HTX was actively targeting British customers despite a complete lack of regulatory compliance. John Thompson, the Finance Minister, stated, “Consumer protection is our top priority.” The regulator aims to maintain market integrity in the face of these questionable practices.

HTX remains silent.

The FCA held a press conference on February 10 to announce substantial fines if HTX does not comply quickly. Authorities will examine other platforms in the coming months to ensure the same level of compliance. Emily Carter, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice, said, “Investigations are ongoing, although no official charges have been filed yet.” The Ministry of Justice is assessing the legal implications of HTX’s operations on British soil.

Internet providers are already preparing technical measures. The blocking order is moving swiftly through administrative channels.

An emergency meeting took place on February 11, 2026, between the FCA and major British internet providers to discuss implementation details. BT Group, a major player in the sector, is evaluating the technical feasibility of the block, according to a spokesperson contacted on February 14. Oliver Reed, a London-based fund manager, commented, “Increased regulation could impact investment strategies, although the long-term effect remains uncertain.” The cryptocurrency market has reacted cautiously to this news. This follows earlier reporting on FCA Sues HTX Over Illegal UK.

Bitcoin has been fluctuating around $36,000 since the announcement, according to CoinMarketCap. No panic, but institutional investors are closely monitoring the situation.

HTX received a formal notice on February 13, 2026, demanding a response within 14 days, failing which legal action will be taken. The notice puts pressure on the platform and shows that authorities are serious about enforcing the rules. A source close to the matter reveals that the FCA is considering extending its investigation to other platforms suspected of similar practices. This information is not officially confirmed but could indicate an intensification of scrutiny across the UK crypto sector.

Sarah Collins, the Home Secretary, reiterated the government’s commitment during a digital security conference held in London on February 14, 2026. She promised further initiatives in the coming weeks to strengthen oversight of digital transactions, without providing specific details. The UK maintains a tough stance against any crypto company operating illegally and faces severe sanctions. The FCA remains vigilant against unauthorized platforms attempting to bypass local regulations.

The blocking of HTX could extend to other European regions closely following the UK’s developments. A consensus might emerge for coordinated action against non-compliant platforms. European regulators are watching London’s measures closely and evaluating their own options. Cryptocurrency continues to spark intense debates on regulation, which has become a major issue for Western governments. This follows earlier reporting on EU Pushes Total Russia Crypto Ban.

The crypto industry is under increased scrutiny. Decisions made in the UK will likely influence other jurisdictions seeking effective regulatory models. HTX has yet to provide an official statement despite multiple requests. Analysts are questioning the potential impact on the company’s reputation as discussions continue behind the scenes with authorities.

No specific date for the effective block has been set, but the administrative process is advancing. British internet providers are finalizing the necessary technical preparations to cut off access to HTX as soon as the order is given. An official update is expected in the coming days, according to sources close to the matter.

The repercussions extend far beyond the UK. The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has called an extraordinary meeting for February 20, including regulators from France, Germany, and the Netherlands. France has been investigating HTX since November 2025, according to the Autorité des marchés financiers, which suspects similar violations on its territory. The Netherlands opened a preliminary investigation on February 15 after identifying over 12,000 active Dutch users on the platform. Germany might follow the UK’s lead within 30 days, according to sources from BaFin.

The financial implications are growing. HTX manages approximately $2.8 billion in assets, according to the latest estimates from Chainalysis, with nearly $340 million reportedly from European users. Transaction fees generated in the UK amounted to £15 million in 2025, according to an internal FCA analysis obtained by Reuters. Virgin Media and Sky have been preparing their DNS filtering systems since February 12. TalkTalk confirmed it could implement the block “in less than 48 hours” once the official order is received.