From the Publisher
Product description
From the Inside Flap
Since the launch of Bitcoin in 2009, cryptocurrency markets have exploded, achieving a value of more than $1 trillion, and promising to revolutionize the financial sector. But the rise of crypto has also seen the emergence of a new digital underworld, one where North Korean hackers, Russian cybercriminals, online opioid dealers, and other criminals earn billions of dollars in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.
In The Crypto Launderers: Crime and Cryptocurrencies from the Dark Web to DeFi and Beyond, veteran anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing expert David Carlisle delivers a comprehensive treatment of the history of cryptocurrency-based money laundering. Robust and down-to-earth, this book explains how criminals are exploiting the latest wave of financial innovation―and how the good guys are fighting back.
The author provides an accessible history of how hackers, fraudsters, and rogue regimes have used Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies to profit from their crimes. Hot on their heels are the private industry actors, regulators, and law enforcement agencies who have mounted a fight to make cryptocurrencies safe, leveraging the blockchain – Bitcoin’s public transaction ledger – to follow the money through an increasingly complex crypto laundering ecosystem.
Carlisle draws on his extensive experience working at the nexus of crypto and the law to provide a deep and engrossing account of shady cryptocurrency dealings. From the origins of the dark web to crypto mixers, privacy coins, and the rise of ransomware, you’ll explore a fascinating underworld of crime and intrigue. Along the way, you’ll discover the most incredible stories and meet the most eccentric characters from the world of crypto crime. You’ll also find an insightful discussion about crypto crime’s impact on the metaverse and Web 3.0, as criminals and regulators battle each other for the future of finance and social tech – a future that carries profound implications for both individual freedom and security.
The Crypto Launderers is an authoritative look at some of the most pressing legal and security issues raised by cryptocurrencies. An engrossing and enlightening discussion of the intersection of crime, technology, and finance, this book will prove to be impossible to put down for anyone interested in the future of money and its consequences for society.
From the Back Cover
“An ideal primer into the criminal use of crypto.”
― Oliver Bullough, Author of Moneyland and Butler to the World
“The captivating story of cat and mouse between cops and robbers, and the battle between free market liberalism and big government in the cryptosphere. A must-read for anyone interested in incredible innovation, in how criminals use crypto, and in how they’re being thwarted, so far.”
― David Lewis, Managing Director, Kroll, and former Executive Secretary of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF)
“The Crypto Launderers reads like a novel, with fascinating insight into the goings-on within the crypto ecosystem, regarding some of the biggest events over the short life of this new industry. A book for any crypto-curious individual whether in or outside the industry.”
― Ian Taylor, Head of Crypto and Digital Assets, KMPG UK, and Board Advisor at Crypto UK
“In The Crypto Launderers David Carlisleexpertly unravels the complex world of crime and cryptocurrencies, providing invaluable insights into the challenges faced by law enforcement and regulators. This compelling book is essential for anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of the dark side of digital currencies.”
― Chia Hock Lai, Co-Founder of the Global Fintech Institute, and former Chairman of the Blockchain Association of Singapore
“David effortlessly weaves together a comprehensive history of the nascent crypto sector with crystal-clear insights into its future. What sets this book apart is its refreshing objectivity . . . David lets the riveting facts speak for themselves. An informative and essential read for anyone looking to dive into the intriguing world of crypto crime. Highly recommended!”
― Aidan Larkin, Founder & CEO, Asset Reality
“The rise of digital assets has ushered in a new, more sophisticated crop of criminals and terrorist actors using instruments of decentralized finance to evade law enforcement. . . The Crypto Launderers is a critically important blueprint for the next generation of leaders who will be combatting illicit uses of decentralized finance to protect the integrity of the global financial system.”
― Michael B. Greenwald, Senior Executive and Global Lead for Digital Assets and Financial Innovation at Amazon Web Services; former United States Treasury Attaché to Qatar and Kuwait
About the Author
DAVID CARLISLE is the Vice President of Policy and Regulatory Affairs at Elliptic, a blockchain analytics company. His commentary on cryptocurrencies, crime, and public policy has appeared in The Economist, the FT, Bloomberg, Reuters, CNBC, and other major media outlets. He previously worked for the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence.
C L Lawrence –
An excellent book that charts crypto crime from its early days all the way up to the present, in a very accessible style (even if you know nothing about cryptocurrency or the technology behind it). Really informative and highly recommended if you want to get a grip on this intriguing area of crime.
Oliver Maycock –
This book covers the history of cryptocurrencies and the crime that has plagued the space since the technology’s inception. I found David’s insight to be incredibly well articulated, supported by findings and opinions from industry leaders. This is a must read for those interested in financial crime and digital assets – no publication I have read yet meets the standard set by David!
E.K. (Compliance | Risk and FinCrime professional – Blockchain, Crypto, AI) –
Whether you are a seasoned Crypto enthusiast or simply curious about the hidden forces shaping the future of Finance, “The Crypto Launderers” is a must-read.David Carlisle, the author, delves into:–Various technologies exploited by criminals, including mixers, privacy coins, Bitcoin ATMs, decentralized finance applications, and NFTs.–The surge of ransomware and the industrialisation of the cybercriminal ecosystem.–How the transparency of the Blockchain exposes criminals to detection while triggering debates on financial privacy.–Emerging innovations, such as the ascent of the Metaverse, that could influence the trajectory of Crypto Crime.What truly sets this book apart is its balanced perspective.Carlisle acknowledges the genuine concerns surrounding financial privacy and recognises the potential of Blockchain technology for good.He avoids falling into simplistic “crypto is good/bad” binaries, instead fostering a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between innovation, crime, and regulation.Overall, it is a thrilling page-turner that will leave you informed, engaged, and little wiser about the challenges and opportunities of this rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Patrick Xuereb –
Very insightful
A very good read, well presented and informative, both to the novice and seasoned compliance personnel.
Jayjit –
Must Read book for Crypto Lovers
In “The Crypto Launderers,” David Carlisle masterfully guides readers through the murky world of cryptocurrency-based crime. This captivating read offers an in-depth look at the rise of the Dark Web, the evolution of crypto money laundering, and the efforts of both public and private sectors to combat it.Carlisle’s engaging storytelling and meticulous research make this book a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the intricate web of crypto crime. The book’s exploration of real-life cases, such as the infamous Silk Road and Mt. Gox, provides a fascinating glimpse into the dark underbelly of the digital world.One of the book’s most impressive aspects is its examination of the various methods used by criminals to launder money through cryptocurrencies, including mixers, coin swaps, and decentralized finance applications. Carlisle also delves into the regulatory landscape and the role of organizations like FinCEN in trying to prevent illicit activities.
Kindle Customer –
Very important Book for AML professionals
First of all my sincere thanks to David for writing this book. I found the content very captivating. Its difficult to keep the book away. Good treatise on Modern Money Laundering techniques using the Virtual Asset Crypto means especially Bitcoin and Privacy Coin.This book should be part of the Curriculum in Universities teaching AML to PG students, Working professionals etc.I highly recommend this book to all current AML professionals (both in Govt and Corporate sectors). I will personally read this book atleast 3/4 times to understand the depth of what David Carlisle is trying to share. Thank you once again David