China Is Getting Even Tougher on Cryptocurrencies a Year After Its Crackdown

Authorities warn against virtual currency gatherings and fundraisings; some WeChat accounts blocked

As bitcoin has emerged from the underground world of nerds and criminals to become a mainstream investment, the risk of hacks and scandals has also blossomed. What’s a government to do? The WSJ’s Steven Russolillo travels the world (sort of) to see how regulators are responding to the remarkable rise of cryptocurrencies. Video: Sharon Shi and Crystal Tai

Steven Russolillo in Hong Kong and

Chao Deng in Beijing

Updated Aug. 24, 2018 5:46 a.m. ET

China is tightening its clampdown on cryptocurrencies, nearly a year after the government imposed a wide-ranging ban on local exchanges and fundraising for digital currencies.

Financial officials in an eastern district of Beijing issued a notice last week to stores, hotels and offices urging them not to host any cryptocurrency-related speeches, events or activities. The document also asked that any activity be reported to local officials and said authorities were acting on behalf of a working group led by the central bank...