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Cryptocurrency Tax Evasion Through The Dark Web: Legal Challenges For Indian Tax Authorities




Akriti Yadav, Amity Law School, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow

Dr. Mudra Singh, Assistant Professor, Amity Law School, Amity University, Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow


ABSTRACT


The rapid growth of cryptocurrencies has fundamentally altered the global financial ecosystem. While digital currencies provide innovative methods for conducting decentralised and efficient financial transactions, they have also created new opportunities for financial misconduct. One of the most concerning developments is the use of cryptocurrencies for tax evasion through the dark web. The anonymity and decentralised nature of cryptocurrencies allow individuals to conduct financial transactions without relying on traditional financial institutions, making it significantly more difficult for governments to monitor and regulate such activities. In India, where cryptocurrency regulation is still evolving, tax authorities face several legal and technological challenges in identifying, tracing, and prosecuting cases of tax evasion linked to the dark web.


This paper examines the relationship between cryptocurrency transactions and dark web marketplaces, focusing specifically on the legal challenges faced by Indian tax authorities in addressing tax evasion. It analyses the current regulatory framework governing cryptocurrencies in India, including the taxes on provisions introduced under the Finance Act, 2022. the paper further explores enforcement difficulties such as anonymity, lack of international cooperation, limited technical experience, and regulatory ambiguity. Finally, the paper presents recommendations for strengthening India’s regulatory and enforcement mechanisms through capacity building, international collaboration, adaptive legislation, and increased public awareness.


Keywords: Cryptocurrency, Tax Evasion, Dark Web, Blockchain, Virtual Digital Assets, Finance Act 2022, Anonymity, Money Laundering, Indian Tax Authorities, Regulatory Framework



Indian Journal of Law and Legal Research

Abbreviation: IJLLR

ISSN: 2582-8878

Website: www.ijllr.com

Accessibility: Open Access

License: Creative Commons 4.0

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All research articles published in The Indian Journal of Law and Legal Research are fully open access. i.e. immediately freely available to read, download and share. Articles are published under the terms of a Creative Commons license which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

 

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The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of the IJLLR or its members. The designations employed in this publication and the presentation of material therein do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the IJLLR.

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