Crypto Investigator - Module 4: Cryptocurrency and the Criminal Element

Module four reveals the criminal element of cryptocurrency, looking at how the digital currency is used to pay for illicit goods or money launder. You’ll learn how to identify and track evidence of cryptocurrency purchases by accessing public blockchains and searching out suspicious looking transactions. While the digital wallets that are used to make cryptocurrency transactions are anonymous, if a new wallet isn’t employed for each transaction, a criminal can leave a distinguishable trace of transactions. You’ll be introduced to insights that are crucial to investigators, including dark web marketplaces, like the fallen Silk Road, and how cryptocurrencies are used in these marketplaces.

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.