India tightens control with 3,000 police officials trained in crypto investigations
As the crypto sector continues to develop, authorities continue to get to grips with the new crypto innovation, with India’s law enforcement being the latest entity to look to clamp down.
Crypto forensics and investigation training
According to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) annual report, a comprehensive training initiative was undertaken during the financial year 2022–2023. The initiative, spearheaded by the Narcotics Control Bureau and the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), equipped over 2,900 officials with essential skills in cryptocurrency forensics and investigation.
Under the aegis of the Narcotics Control Bureau, India’s central law enforcement and intelligence agency, 141 officers underwent specialized training in the investigation of darknet activities, cryptocurrencies and other pertinent areas such as digital footprints.
The report stated that workshops were set up that covered techniques for gathering intelligence and evidence from open sources and social media platforms, reflecting a commitment to staying ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of cybercrime.
There’s clearly a need for this level of expertise, given an uptick in crypto-related scams in India and the broader Asia region as a whole in recent times. Earlier this week, it emerged that the Indian authorities had arrested eight individuals in relation to a $300 million cryptocurrency scam.
Raj Kapoor, the founder of the India Blockchain Alliance (IBA), recently called for greater control when it comes to crypto-related illicit financing. Kapoor stated:
”It is a kick on the backside for most governments. All regulatory bodies will take a closer look at crypto regulation. Governments will need to start implementing new rules and regulations.”
I4C played a pivotal role in training over 2,800 cyber police officials. The training encompassed crypto forensics, investigations and emerging technologies like anonymization networks. The focus extended to addressing the misuse of mobile applications in the cyberspace realm.
Ongoing blockchain tech adoption
As India proactively prepares to combat potential crypto-related crimes amidst increased adoption, the nation is also delving into mainstream blockchain applications. In a recent stride towards digital transformation, Hindustan Petroleum (HPCL), the state-run oil and gas company, partnered with blockchain software firm Zupple Labs. Together, they launched a blockchain system designed to automate the verification of purchase orders (POs).
HPCL’s spokesperson outlined the significance of this implementation to Cointelegraph, stating that the integration helps automate the verification of HPCL POs to external parties, utilizing the blockchain system alongside HPCL’s internal e-PO. This generates tamper-evident, verifiable POs, enhancing efficiency and transparency within industry processes.
In a separate development, it emerged on Thursday that India’s Central Bureau of Investigation has appointed Singapore-headquartered digital asset market intelligence outfit Liminal to manage seized digital assets.
This holistic approach, combining advancements in law enforcement training and embracing blockchain applications, underscores India’s commitment to navigating the evolving landscape of digital technologies while looking to ensure a secure and transparent future.
