The AP Stylebook guidelines clarify that "crypto" is not shorthand for "cryptocurrency"

In common parlance, "crypto" has become a socially acceptable abbreviation for "cryptocurrency" or all digital assets and the blockchain development industry in general. But the Associated Press stylebook says no. CoinDesk summarizes their guidlines by saying: "In short, don’t call digital money 'crypto.'" The AP writes that cryptocurrency is: "A type of digital money that uses encryption technology to make it secure. Avoid using the shorthand crypto, which can be confused with cryptography." Later, the AP adds that, "Cryptocurrency is not the same as virtual currency, which is used in virtual worlds such as online games."