Crypto Fraud Investigation: Forensic Accounting Guide for Solicitors

Cryptocurrency fraud requires blockchain transaction analysis, wallet identification, and exchange account investigation. Forensic accountants use tools such as Chainalysis and Elliptic to trace stolen assets through obfuscating transaction chains.

Part 5 POCA has been amended to specifically allow civil recovery of crypto-assets as property obtained through unlawful conduct, without requiring criminal conviction. Forensic evidence establishes the crypto represents recoverable property.

NFT and DeFi fraud present additional tracing challenges across multiple protocols and chains. Exchange subpoenas and mutual legal assistance support identification of beneficial owners behind wallet addresses.

HM Treasury's final cryptoasset statutory instrument brings fungible and transferable cryptoassets under full financial services regulation from October 2027, increasing compliance obligations and enforcement activity in the digital asset sector.