Criminal Use of Cryptocurrencies and Investigative Opportunities

• Jurisdiction: European Union
• Year: 2022
• Author: David Silva Ramalho

Speaker

David Silva Ramalho is a lawyer who specializes in the areas of criminal and regulatory offence litigation and compliance. In criminal litigation, he is significantly experienced in cybercrime and digital evidence, representing clients and providing legal assistance in those areas. He is regularly invited to participate in conferences and postgraduate courses on matters related to cybercrime and digital evidence, having published several articles on those same areas.

On the academic circuit, David is an assistant teacher of Criminal Law and Criminal Procedure at the University of Lisbon School of Law, a researcher at the Center for Research in Criminal Law and Criminal Studies and an associate of the Criminal Law and Criminal Studies Institute.

Topic

This e-presentation aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the illicit utilization of cryptocurrencies, focusing primarily on the issues surrounding money laundering. Additionally, it delves into the various investigation techniques employed to uncover the identities of individuals involved in Bitcoin transactions and to link them to specific criminal activities.

Cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, have gained popularity in recent years due to their decentralized nature and potential for anonymity. However, this anonymity has also made them attractive to individuals seeking to engage in unlawful activities, including money laundering. Money laundering involves the process of disguising the origins of illicitly obtained funds, making them appear legitimate.

Within the realm of cryptocurrency, money laundering can occur through various means. This e-presentation delves into these methods, shedding light on the techniques employed by criminals to launder funds using cryptocurrencies. It explores concepts such as mixing services, tumblers, and the use of privacy coins, which allow individuals to obfuscate the trail of transactions and conceal the true source of funds.

To combat these illicit activities, law enforcement agencies and regulatory bodies have developed sophisticated investigation techniques. This e-presentation outlines the methodologies used to identify parties involved in...