Chain Analysis and Cryptocurrency Tracing

Summary: Chain analysis, initially a technique for tracing cryptocurrency, has evolved into a company that develops algorithms for this purpose. This 'cat and mouse' game involves companies like Chainanalysis staying ahead of criminals using crypto. Chainanalysis's software, Reactor, is a powerful tool for law enforcement, built on techniques from blockchain analysis and research by Sarah Meiklejohn. Insights:

• Chain analysis has become an industry of companies trying to keep up with cryptocurrency criminals.
• Blockchain analysis is the foundation of the company Chainanalysis's techniques.
• Chainanalysis built a software called Reactor from blockchain analysis techniques. Proper Nouns:
• Chainanalysis: A company that develops algorithms for cryptocurrency tracing.
• Reactor: Chainanalysis's software, a powerful law enforcement tool.
• Sarah Meiklejohn: University of California, San Diego researcher, whose work in 2013 on Bitcoin tracing was foundational to Chainanalysis's approach. Research
• What specific algorithms are used in blockchain analysis?
• How effective is Reactor in apprehending cybercriminals?
• What are the ethical implications of using chain analysis techniques for surveillance?