Cryptocurrency Investigations

We utilise Open Source Intelligence (OSINT), digital forensics, blockchain intelligence tools, and conventional investigation techniques to track down and recover misappropriated funds.

Investigations are led by a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) targeting:

  • Identity theft
  • Brand hijacking
  • Mimic websites
  • Clone websites
  • Cloned identities
  • Dating scams
  • Advanced fee fraud
  • Extortion

and in support of

  • Dispute resolution
  • Civil litigation
  • Criminal complaints and
  • Regulatory enforcement

Cryptocurrency Forensics and Asset Tracing

Cryptocurrency forensics are investigative methods utilised in tracking blockchain financial transactions to identify perpetrators and locate assets.

Cryptocurrency and other asset tracing is part of the investigation and recovery process for victims of online fraud, theft, hacking and extortion schemes. This includes the tracing of e-mail addresses and cellular numbers and, where required in South Africa, the facilitation of section 205 Subpoenas.

Tracing Bitcoins and other Cryptocurrencies

Most people think that cryptocurrencies are anonymous and therefore untraceable. Transactions of virtual currencies are recorded on online blockchain ledgers that identify users only by their cryptocurrency address, without names, addresses, or other personal identifiers.

Cryptocurency investigators are constantly developing methods to pierce the veils of anonymity. Our intelligence and investigative tools are used to follow and identify cryptocurrency transactions and:

  • Verify the authenticity of the broker (confirm identity and compliance and perform Due Diligence)
  • Verify the authenticity of the transactions that have been made
  • Establish exchanges involved and the flow of funds
  • Identify wallet balances of the ‘dealer’ and/or broker
  • Track and Trace dealer/broker
  • If the scheme originated outside of South Africa it may be necessary to coordinate our efforts with overseas investigators
  • Identify and Trace funds and other assets
  • Identify and interview other victims for inclusion as class members
  • Assist Law Enforcement/Courts in apprehension of perpetrators and recovery of funds

Inspection of our Cape Town or Centurion (Pretoria) facilities and Chain of Custody are of course available, but we do ask that an appointment is appropriately schedule to ensure that inspections do not overlap with active investigations. We have associates in the Durban area if required.