Online Course 32/2023/ONS: Darkweb and cryptocurrencies - Basic

The aim of the activity is to enhance cooperation on cross-border cases by using TOR and Darkweb and by increasing skills to find virtual currencies (VC) during criminal investigations as well as to identify the existence of a VC wallet, notably in the framework of computer searches. The learning strategy is focused to enhance the capacity of law enforcement officers to integrate new investigative techniques into cyber investigations.

Upon completion of the course, the participants are expected to be able to:

1. Describe the use of internet and its tools to gather relevant information during online investigations, especially using TOR and Darkweb;
2. Describe investigative methods on how to investigate Darkweb networks;
3. Search for and identify the existence of a VC wallet in the framework of criminal investigations;
4. Share good practices to trace, seize and confiscate VCs;
5. Understand the structure behind e-money and identify indicators of illegal use of e-money;
6. To enhance cooperation between law enforcement institutions from the EU Member states and non-EU countries encountering crimes linked to the use of cryptocurrencies.

The learning process highlights a learner-centred approach and will consist of:

• Independent Learning: reviewing case studies, watching webinars and short videos, studying reading material – 15 hours.
• Contact Learning via online forums: forum discussion with other participants, exchange of good practices – 10 hours.
• Experiential Learning: practical exercises that need to be analysed by participants – 5 hours.

The course will be held entirely in English, therefore it is essential that nominated officials possess appropriate language skills (at least B2 level). The entire activity will be carried out online hence the physical presence of participants will not be required.

Completion of the course would require around 2 -3 hours’ investment / working day from the attending participants during the length of two weeks, from 20 to 31 March 2023. While there is no specific time slot when participants shall be available for completing the course tasks, they should follow the course continuously. Live sessions attendance is mandatory.

Nomination:

In case you are interested to attend, please contact your local CEPOL National Unit / CEPOL National Contact Point as soon as possible. Deadline for nominations by CEPOL National Units: 8 March 2023.

Selected participants have to be registered to CEPOL's Law Enforcement Education platform LEEd where the online activity will take the place.