ABOUT THE CRIMINOLOGICAL SIGNS OF CRYPTOCRIMES

Abstract

In addition to the undeniable advantages that it has for the development of society, scientific and technological progress, has led to the emergence of new criminal risks and threats. Some innovations are at the intersection of several academic fields and require special knowledge in each of them in order to successfully identify, record and investigate the illegal behavior associated with these technologies. One such innovation is blockchain technology and the concept of digital currency or crypto currency. This article is devoted to the analysis of the criminological characteristics of a new phenomenon that arose as a result of the development of blockchain technology and crypto currencies, namely crime in the field of cryptocurrency. The author analyzes the signs of cryptocrime, such as its transnational character, virtuality, organized character, detailed preparation with the use of methods and means of cyber espionage, dispersed character, self-determination, use of blockchain mechanisms to launder illegally acquired means, etc. The author’s conclusions address the need to arm legal practitionerswith special knowledge of blockchain and cryptocurrency technologies. This is due to the fact that Moldova can become a favorable jurisdiction for of cryptocrimes. Rapid intervention by the authorities to such threats will help to eliminate / reduce possible criminal risks.