Dark Crypto – The Use of Cryptocurrency for Illegal Purposes
- April 2023
- Johannes Rieckmann, Tim Stuchtey
- Contribution
Blockchain technology and the cryptocurrencies based on it offer significant innovation potential for businesses and society. However, cryptocurrencies have at the same time become the favoured payment method for certain criminal activities. This study is the English translation of “Dark Krypto – Nutzung von Kryptowährungen für illegale Zwecke” published by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom. The authors, Johannes Rieckmann and Tim Stuchtey, provide an overview of the illegal use of cryptocurrencies. Based on their analysis as well as expert interviews, the authors provide recommendations for action on how to prevent the misuse of cryptocurrencies for illegal purposes while avoiding a disproportionate restriction of the technology’s innovation potential.