As cryptocurrency becomes increasingly mainstream, so do the crimes that follow it. From romance scams and phishing attacks to large-scale pig butchering fraud and crypto-based money laundering, digital currency is now a central tool for criminal enterprises – and a critical blind spot for many investigators.
Crypto Investigations 101: Scams, Tracing, and Prosecution is a one-day training designed to equip law enforcement and prosecutors with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to investigate and respond to crypto-related crimes. You’ll learn how blockchain works, why crypto appeals to fraudsters, and how to trace transactions using blockchain analytics tools.
Through real-life case studies, hands-on demos, and group activities, you’ll learn how to spot red flags, follow digital money trails, and build investigative plans that hold up in court. Topics include key terminology, stablecoins, wallet tracing, subpoena best practices, forensic tools, and prevention tactics for community outreach.
Whether you’re new to cryptocurrency or looking to sharpen your investigative edge, this course delivers real-world insights and actionable techniques – without the tech jargon. No prior crypto experience required. Just curiosity, critical thinking, and a desire to follow the money.
***Students should bring a laptop to class to fully participate.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Explain how cryptocurrency and blockchain technology function, including key terminology such as wallets, hashes, and public/private keys.
- Identify the most common types of crypto-related scams – including pig butchering, phishing, romance, and employment scams—and recognize the red flags associated with each.
- Analyze public blockchain transactions using tools to trace the movement of funds across wallets.
- Differentiate between major cryptocurrencies (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, stablecoins) and explain their roles in illicit finance.
- Apply investigative techniques to follow digital money trails from victim to suspect, using real-world examples and case studies.
- Develop a response plan for scam victims, including proper documentation, evidence collection, and coordination with crypto exchanges.
- Utilize blockchain forensic tools and legal tools (e.g., subpoenas) to support crypto investigations and potential prosecutions.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of prevention and outreach strategies in reducing crypto-related crime in local communities.
This course is appropriate for law enforcement and prosecutors.
