The virtual currency Bitcoin has come under close scrutiny from US regulaters after the charging of two exchange operators with money laundering.<br /><br />Robert Faiella and Charlie Shrem are accused of attempting to sell more than $1m (0.7m euros) in the digital currency to users of an online drug marketplace website.<br /><br />Silk Road was shut down by the authorities last year after its suspected owner was arrested. The site is said to have offered drugs, false documents and other illegal services.<br /><br />It is alleged Shrem funneled money to the site with Faiella’s knowledge.<br /><br />Bitcoin was created four years ago in the wake of the global financial crisis and has slowly been approaching the mainstream.<br /><br />Unlike other currencies, Bitcoin does not have the backing of a central bank or government but due to the anonymity of users making transactions, many feel it is a more secure method of online payment.
