In a historic step for crypto history, Japanese authorities have arrested a gang of 18 scammers for the first time through the analysis of Monero transactions. The group, led by suspected leader Yuta Kobayashi, is accused of money laundering and computer fraud through the privacy-focused cryptocurrency Monero.
Approximately 900 transactions examined
Authorities investigated some 900 transactions, involving the laundering of a total of 100 million yen (about $670,000). This successful operation followed an investigation that began in August, shortly after the establishment of the National Police Agency’s Cyber Special Investigation Unit. The unit was created in April to tackle Japan’s rapidly growing cybercrime.
It is the first time Japanese law enforcement officials have used Monero transactions to identify criminals, Nikkei reported. The arrests mark a major breakthrough in the fight against cybercrime, with authorities demonstrating that even hard-to-trace cryptocurrencies like Monero are not elusive.
The case underlines Japan’s increased attention to tackling cybercrime and the effective use of advanced technologies in criminal investigations.
Source: https://newsbit.nl/japanse-autoriteiten-arresteren-voor-het-eerst-oplichters-door-analyse-van-monero-transacties/
