Singapore Police and Crypto Platforms Block More Than $2.86 Million in Scam Funds

A month-long operation from March 16 to April 15 involved Coinbase, Coinhako, StraitsX and Upbit, using blockchain analytics tools to trace scam-linked transfers and identify victims.

Summary

Singapore police worked with Coinbase, Coinhako, StraitsX and Upbit to block more than $2.86 million in scam-related funds during an enforcement operation that ran from March 16 to April 15. The effort used tools from TRM Labs and Chainalysis, two blockchain analytics firms, to identify victims and trace transactions tied to impersonation, investment, job and romance scams. The operation highlights how law enforcement and crypto service providers are increasingly using blockchain forensics (tracking on-chain fund movements) to disrupt fraud and recover or freeze illicit transfers before they are withdrawn or moved further.

Terms & Concepts
  • blockchain forensics: The analysis of on-chain transaction data to trace fund flows, identify suspicious activity, and support investigations.
  • Chainalysis: A blockchain analytics company that provides tools to monitor crypto transactions and help detect illicit activity.
  • TRM Labs: A blockchain intelligence firm that helps investigators trace digital asset movements and identify wallets linked to crime.