Bull Bitcoin Challenges DAC8 Directive in French Courts

Bull Bitcoin, the world's oldest Bitcoin-only and non-custodial exchange, has filed a legal challenge against the European DAC8 directive in French courts. The company argues that the directive creates a massive surveillance grid and database that institutions cannot secure from leaks and data hacks.

The DAC8 directive requires regulated crypto-asset service providers (CASPs) to report customer data to tax authorities, which Bull Bitcoin claims will put millions of crypto users at risk of kidnapping and physical harm. The company cites an alarming rise in kidnappings and physical attacks on crypto users in Europe, with France being an epicenter.

Bull Bitcoin's CEO, Francis Pouliot, calls the DAC8 directive 'Kill Your Customer' instead of 'Know Your Customer', as it exposes not only crypto-asset holders but also their entire close family circle to physical risk. The company estimates that between 40 and 135 million Europeans fall into a physical-risk zone without their consent.

The legal challenge seeks to annul Decree No. 2025-1276, which transposes the European DAC8 directive into French law. Alongside the legal action, Bull Bitcoin has made dac8.com public as a resource for citizens, journalists, and policymakers.