In There’s No Such Thing as Crypto Crime: An Investigators Guide, accomplished cybersecurity and forensics consultant Nick Furneaux delivers an expert discussion of the key methods used by cryptocurrency investigators, including investigations on Bitcoin and Ethereum type blockchains. The book explores the criminal opportunities available to malicious actors in the crypto universe, as well as the investigative principles common to this realm.
The author explains in detail a variety of essential topics, including how cryptocurrency is used in crime, exploiting wallets, and investigative methodologies for the primary chains, as well as digging into important areas such as tracing through contracts, coin-swaps, layer 2 chains and bridges. He also provides engaging and informative presentations of:
Strategies used by investigators around the world to seize the fruits of crypto-related crime
How non-fungible tokens, new alt-currency tokens, and decentralized finance factor into cryptocurrency crime
The application of common investigative principles—like discovery—to the world of cryptocurrency
An essential and effective playbook for combating crypto-related financial crime, There’s No Such Thing as Crypto Crime will earn a place in the libraries of financial investigators, fraud and forensics professionals, and cybercrime specialists.
Key lessons from the book include:
Cryptocurrency as a Tool, Not a Crime: The book emphasizes that cryptocurrencies themselves are not inherently criminal. Instead, they can be utilized by malicious actors to facilitate traditional crimes, such as drug trafficking or fraud. Understanding this distinction is crucial for effective investigation and regulation.
Comprehensive Investigative Techniques: Furneaux outlines methodologies for tracing transactions on major blockchains like Bitcoin and Ethereum. He delves into exploiting wallets and tracking funds through various mechanisms, including smart contracts, coin-swaps, layer 2 chains, and bridges. These techniques are essential for investigators aiming to follow the digital money trail.
Integration of Traditional and Digital Forensics: The author argues against siloing cryptocurrency investigations, advocating for their integration into broader investigative frameworks. By combining traditional forensic methods with digital asset tracing, investigators can build more comprehensive cases and improve the chances of asset recovery.
Addressing Emerging Threats: The book discusses the rise of new criminal opportunities within the crypto space, such as those involving non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and decentralized finance (DeFi). Furneaux provides insights into how these technologies can be exploited and offers strategies for investigators to stay ahead of such developments.
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