How IRS Criminal Investigation Unit Tackles Crypto Crimes

Jan 14, 2025

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The criminal landscape is evolving and nobody knows this better than the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) unit, who has been an international leader when it comes to combating crypto and cyber-related crimes.

In this episode, we are lucky to have Jim Lee (Global Head of Capacity Building, Chainalysis), who previously spent almost 30 years in IRS-CI sit down with Jarod Koopman, a leading figure in government law enforcement and the Executive Director of Cyber and Forensic Services at IRS-CI Investigations.

The duo discuss the evolving landscape of financial crimes and the crucial role of digital assets and cyber technology, while Jarod shares his extensive experience and how his career shifted towards cyber investigations as cryptocurrencies gained prominence.

He explains how IRS-CI stays ahead of crime through an innovative approach to investigations and deep international partnerships and collaborations in law enforcement and highlights the need for authorities around the world to stay on top of emerging typologies and the use of cutting edge AI technology.

Minute-by-minute episode breakdown

2 | Jarod’s early days as a Federal agent working high stakes investigations

4 | The evolution of crime and cryptocurrency's impact on investigations

7 | Challenges in combating cybercrime and crypto-related offenses

11 | Global collaboration in combating crypto-related crimes

17 | International alignment in fighting tax crimes in crypto

22 | Unveiling the new IRS-CI's Advanced Collaboration and Data Center (“ACDC”)

28 | Understanding tax obligations for cryptocurrency gains in the US

32 | Government agencies face challenges amid budget cuts and hiring freezes

34 | Exploring AI and digital assets in financial fraud prevention

38 | Law enforcement's strategic approach to the Metaverse

40 | Emerging blockchain crimes and AI threats in Law Enforcement

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Speakers on today’s episode

Jim (James) Lee * Host * (Global Head of Capacity Building, Chainalysis)
Jarod Koopman (Executive Director, Cyber and Forensic Services, IRS - Criminal Investigation)

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