Abstract

GRANJA-MARTINEZ, Lorena Nathaly; PROANO-REYES, Gladis Margot  and  CASTRO-SANCHEZ, Fernando de Jesús. The liberatory power and Illegal use of cryptocurrencies, criminal acts in Ecuador. Noesis [online]. 2025, vol.7, n.esp2, pp.1368-1384.  Epub Dec 31, 2025. ISSN 2739-0365.  https://doi.org/10.35381/noesisin.v7i2.662.

This article analyzes the liberating power and illegal use of cryptocurrencies in Ecuador, examining their influence in the legal and criminal context. Although they are tools of financial innovation, their lack of authorization and specific regulation in the country has turned them into vehicles for criminal activities. Using a qualitative methodology and analysis of recent court cases, the research focuses on two aspects: the ability of cryptocurrencies to extinguish obligations and their use in illegal acts. The results conclude that criminal acts such as fraud are directly related to the use of cryptocurrencies. Although cryptocurrencies are not authorized or regulated by any specific legislation in Ecuador, there is a clear need to establish stricter regulations to control their use and mitigate the associated risks.

Keywords : Cryptocurrencies; bitcoin; discharge power; unlawful acts; financial economy..

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