Cryptocurrency exchange HTX has denied initiating a series of small unsolicited transfers that some users described as address-poisoning or dusting activity. The reports emerged after recipients said the deposits triggered compliance reviews on other platforms.
The episode coincides with heightened scrutiny of HTX-linked activity.
The Drivers of This Activity
On 18 August, users reported receiving tiny USDT amounts, such as 7.5 USDT, that on-chain explorers labeled as originating from HTX-associated wallets. Several individuals claimed the unexpected deposits led other exchanges to place their accounts under review or threaten closure, raising fears of “AML poisoning” designed to taint addresses.
HTX executive Molly stated that an internal review found no evidence the exchange’s official channels had sent the transfers or conducted related testing. She said the platform is investigating the source of the transactions and has not ruled out address-tagging errors or misinterpretation of on-chain data. Founder Justin Sun separately described the reports as fabricated.
The claims surfaced days before broader counterparty restrictions involving HTX were scheduled to take effect on certain platforms.
Impact and Broader Context
Even small unsolicited deposits can create compliance complications when the sending address is associated with a sanctioned or restricted entity. Recipients may face additional documentation requests or temporary freezes while platforms assess the origin of funds.
HTX’s denial and ongoing investigation aim to clarify whether the transfers stemmed from labeling inaccuracies, third-party activity or another cause. On-chain analysts have examined the relevant wallets, with some questioning the scale and specifics of the original user reports.
Further findings from HTX’s review, along with any additional user reports or exchange responses, will determine how the incident is resolved and whether similar dusting concerns affect other platforms.
Source: BeInCrypto; Coin360
HTX statements and Justin Sun comments reported across crypto media