They pointed to the use of apps such as China-based Alipay and Russia-based Qiwi as a growing problem and a national security threat.

The action from multiple U.S. departments is against 10 Iranians and two Iranian companies related to a spree of breaches and cyberattacks.

Sanctions against the cryptocurrency mixer have ignited concern from industry stakeholders, privacy advocates and legal experts.

An increase in funds sent from illicit addresses has accelerated the rise, indicating the technology remains attractive to cyber criminals.

The ransomware has previously received little public scrutiny.

Blender was used to launder $20.5 million of the $620 million that the Treasury Department alleges North Korean hackers stole in March.