Crypto exchange Bitget said on 17 October that it is ending services for "certain users only" in what it called a one-off exercise, and that its platform keeps running and customer funds are safe. Affected people are being told directly, with their own deadlines and withdrawal instructions. Bitget's terms, updated 16 October, now list Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan as prohibited places. At least one affected user reported a 21 October deadline.

Who's affected

Bitget hasn't said how many accounts are being closed or named a specific regulator's order. Its updated terms add Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan to its list of prohibited jurisdictions, and most reports tie the closures to that. Some outlets name only Russia and Belarus. If you haven't had a notice from Bitget, the exchange says your account carries on as normal.

The deadline

There's no single date for everyone. Notices are account-specific, and one affected user reported a 21 October withdrawal deadline. Reports say open positions may be closed automatically after the cutoff, and the new terms let Bitget restrict withdrawals or convert assets in some cases. They also ban using a VPN to get around location limits. If you're affected, don't leave it to the last day.

What to do

  • Read your notice inside the Bitget app or on the site you normally log in to. Don't trust a link in an email or text.
  • Withdraw to a wallet you control, and send a small test amount first. Our hot vs cold wallet guide helps you pick one.
  • Need cash instead? Our guide on how to turn crypto into cash covers the safe routes.
  • Expect fake "Bitget account closure" emails. Scammers copy real notices within hours. If one asks for your password, 2FA code or recovery phrase, it's fake.

Know someone who trades on Bitget? Send them this.

Sources: Bitget statement, 17 Oct 2026, Cointelegraph, crypto.news, The Coin Republic, FinanceFeeds.