Identifying and Analyzing Preventive Components in Iran’s Criminal Policy Toward Crimes Related to Virtual Currencies to Provide Efficient Solutions for Improved Effectiveness

Abstract

This study identifies the existing capacities and challenges within Iran’s criminal policy regarding the prevention of criminal activities related to virtual currencies. In this regard, legislative criminal policy—emphasizing the development of comprehensive and transparent regulations; judicial criminal policy—focusing on specialized judicial training and the establishment of dedicated branches; executive criminal policy—highlighting the supervision of law enforcement and financial institutions; and participatory criminal policy—promoting cooperation among the public, media, and private sector are examined. Furthermore, types of prevention, including social, situational, and criminal prevention, are analyzed within the framework of these four policy areas, and effective, integrated solutions are proposed to enhance the efficiency of the preventive system. The present study employs a descriptive–analytical research method. First, by using library resources and legal documents, the theoretical foundations and the current legal status are reviewed. Then, through comparative and critical analysis, the strengths and weaknesses of Iran’s criminal policy in addressing cryptocurrency-related crimes are identified. Finally, targeted corrective and preventive recommendations are presented. The findings reveal that Iran’s criminal policy in the field of virtual currencies lacks the necessary coherence and comprehensiveness and remains predominantly reactive rather than preventive. The novelty of this study lies in presenting a four-pronged prevention model—legislative, judicial, executive, and participatory—which integrates all dimensions of prevention while considering the specific characteristics and risks associated with financial technologies. This model can serve as a practical framework for reforming Iran’s criminal policy and transitioning toward an efficient, coordinated, and future-oriented preventive system against crimes related to virtual currencies.