Source |
AlienVault Lab Blog |
Identifiant |
8534145 |
Date de publication |
2024-07-10 10:00:00 (vue: 2024-07-10 10:07:51) |
Titre |
La législation numérique à l'ère de la crypto-monnaie: enquêter sur la blockchain et les crimes cryptographiques Digital Forensics in the Age of Cryptocurrency: Investigating Blockchain and Crypto Crimes |
Texte |
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The rise of cryptocurrencies has introduced a new frontier for criminals, presenting unique challenges for investigators. Unlike traditional financial transactions, cryptocurrency transactions are pseudonymous, meaning identities are obscured by cryptographic addresses. This, coupled with the decentralized nature of blockchain technology, necessitates specialized techniques and tools for digital forensics in the age of cryptocurrency.
Understanding Cryptocurrency and Blockchain
Before diving into forensic techniques, let\'s establish some foundational knowledge:
Blockchain: A decentralized, public ledger that records transactions across a network of computers. Each transaction is cryptographically linked to the previous one, forming a secure and tamper-proof chain.
Cryptocurrency: A digital or virtual currency secured by cryptography. Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin are popular examples.
The pseudonymous nature of blockchain transactions means that while all transactions are publicly visible, the identities of the parties involved are obscured by cryptographic addresses.
Key Challenges in Crypto Forensics
Pseudonymity: Unlike traditional bank accounts, cryptocurrency transactions do not directly link to real-world identities.
Decentralization: The absence of a central authority complicates efforts to track and freeze illicit funds.
Multiple Cryptocurrencies: The diverse landscape of cryptocurrencies, each with unique characteristics, requires adaptable forensic techniques.
Forensic Techniques for Investigating Crypto Crimes
Blockchain Analysis
Transaction Tracing: By analyzing the flow of transactions on the blockchain, investigators can track the movement of funds. Tools like Chainalysis, Elliptic, and CipherTrace offer visualizations of transaction flows, highlighting suspicious patterns.
Example Scenario: An investigator traces a series of Bitcoin transactions from a ransomware payment to multiple addresses. Using address clustering, they identify a cluster linked to a known exchange, leading to the suspect\'s identification.
Address Clustering: Grouping addresses controlled by the same entity helps link pseudonymous transactions. Techniques like "co-spending" (using multiple addresses in one transaction) aid in clustering.
Crypto Wallet Analysis
Wallet Extraction: Digital wallets store private keys needed for cryptocurrency transactions. Extracting wallet data from devices involves locating wallet files or using memory forensics to recover private keys.
Example Scenario: During a raid, law enforcement seizes a suspect\'s laptop. Forensic imaging and subsequent analysis reveal a Bitcoin wallet file. The extracted private keys allow investigators to access and trace illicit funds.
Forensic Imaging
Creating forensic images of suspect devices ensures data integrity and enables detailed analysis. Tools like FTK Imager and EnCase are used for imaging and analyzing digital evidence.
Address Attribution
KYC Data: Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations require exchanges to collect user identification information. By subpoenaing exchange records, investigators can link blockchain addresses to real-world identities.
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