Hi Hayley, transitioning into blockchain forensics with your cybersecurity background and cryptography expertise offers an exciting path filled with opportunities. Blockchain forensics professionals analyze transactions, detect fraud, and uncover illicit activity within decentralized networks.
To build expertise, start by mastering transaction tracing. Understand blockchain transaction structures and how data is stored on-chain. Focus on tracing flows, identifying mixers, and navigating multi-chain environments. Study both UTXO (Bitcoin) and account-based models (Ethereum) to handle diverse cases effectively.
Learn de-anonymization techniques to connect blockchain addresses to real-world identities. Address clustering, change output detection, and behavioral analysis play critical roles in this process. Review case studies of successful investigations for actionable insights.
Explore common attack vectors like flash loan exploits, phishing, and rug pulls. Analyze real-world incidents to recognize vulnerabilities exploited in fraud and money laundering schemes. Combine this knowledge with proficiency in tools like Chainalysis Reactor, GraphSense, or Python libraries such as Web3.py and PyCrypto for custom scripts and in-depth analysis.
Develop a solid understanding of global AML and CTF regulations. Familiarity with FATF guidelines and blockchain-specific compliance challenges enhances your ability to work effectively with law enforcement and regulators.
Leverage your cryptography background to study vulnerabilities in wallet encryption, consensus mechanisms, and key recovery techniques. Apply this knowledge to trace and mitigate sophisticated exploits.
Contribute to open-source forensics projects, participate in blockchain-focused CTFs, and engage with communities like EthSecurity. These actions build your credibility and open doors to specialized roles in blockchain forensics.
