Tracking stolen crypto — How blockchain analysis helps recover funds

Cointelegraph

Published Oct 23, 2023 11:14AM ET

Updated Oct 23, 2023 01:00PM ET

Amid the rapid evolution of decentralized finance (DeFi) and the broader Web3 landscape, security is of paramount importance. New threats continue to emerge, making it essential to understand attack patterns for risk assessment and reliability evaluation. In 2023 alone, over $990 million was lost or stolen, according to Cointelegraph’s Crypto Hacks database.

This growing demand for security has led to the emergence of a diverse ecosystem of Web3 security expertise, ranging from decentralized identity solutions to smart contract auditors, ensuring the safety of this dynamic digital space.

  1. Transaction tracing: Blockchain analysts meticulously trace blockchain transactions involving stolen cryptocurrency.
  2. Address clustering: Analysts group related addresses to identify the flow of stolen funds. This clustering helps to understand how funds move between wallets.
  3. Behavioral analysis: Analysts can identify unusual or suspicious behavior that may indicate hacking or theft by studying transaction patterns.
  4. Pattern recognition: Analysts use historical data and known attack patterns to recognize emerging threats, allowing for early detection and mitigation.
  5. Regulatory vigilance: Governments worldwide are pushing to introduce stricter Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations in crypto.
  6. Collaboration: Blockchain analysis often involves collaboration with law enforcement agencies, exchanges, and other stakeholders to freeze or recover stolen assets.

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