Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond
Fraud · Tracing
Blockchain forensics explained
Publicledger
Clusteringwallets
Exchangesend points
Limitsmixers & bridges
In short: Blockchain forensics uses the public record of transactions to follow funds from a victim's wallet to where they end up. Specialist analytics tools group addresses that belong to the same person or service and flag known exchanges, scams and mixers. Police, exchanges and solicitors use these reports to request freezes and support court applications. Tracing is often possible, but recovery depends on funds reaching an identifiable, cooperative service. Mixers, cross-chain bridges and privacy coins make it harder.
| Stage | What happens |
|---|---|
| Collect | Hashes, addresses, dates |
| Trace | Follow hops between wallets |
| Identify | Find exchanges or services |
| Report | Evidence for police, exchanges or court |
How tracing works
Frequently asked questions
Can all crypto be traced?
Most public blockchains can, but some techniques obscure the trail.
Do I need a private tracing firm?
Only for larger cases, usually through a solicitor.
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