Crypto Investigator - Module 2: The Bitcoin Trail

In the second module, you’ll focus on the most popular cryptocurrency with global adoption and use, Bitcoin. Discover how and why it was created and the secrecy surrounding its creator. You’ll also develop an understanding of how new Bitcoins are added to the system, through the mining process which underpins the decentralized network with financial incentivization. The program looks at why Bitcoin gained in popularity, explaining how and why it is being used across the world for cross-border transactions, direct peer-to-peer transactions and sometimes, for money laundering. Here, the program delves into the common criminal schemes where Bitcoin is used, as well as past crimes that were exposed because of the Bitcoin trail. Finally, you’ll look at the advanced analytical tools that anti-money laundering (AML) compliance and law enforcement professionals use to investigate and track use of cryptocurrencies.

This module is taught by Robert Whitaker and Teresa Anaya.

A brief bio of Robert -

Robert has served in law enforcement for 23 years, including as a Supervisory Special Agent with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), where he oversaw the program responsible for cryptocurrency investigations, training, equipment, analytical support, and investigative methodologies needed by HSI special agents worldwide. Robert is a Certified Bitcoin Professional.

A brief bio of Teresa -

Teresa has over 25 years experience focused on fraud, money laundering and terrorist financing investigations, including for the FDIC after the financial crisis of 2008, and for Standard Chartered Bank, Bank of America and others. As Project Manager at Bank of America, she worked to develop a proprietary Know Your Customer (KYC) suite of applications. Teresa is ITIL 3 Certified, a Certified Fraud Examiner, a Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist and a Certified Bitcoin Professional.