Training

This course provides students with the fundamental knowledge and skills they need to investigate crimes involving virtual currency. Instructors explain foundational concepts like the characteristics of money, virtual currency, and cryptocurrency. Blockchain technology, proof work, and proof of stake are covered; and students learn how industry-leading cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Monero) work and how they differ from each other. Finally, students learn investigative techniques for tracking and documenting transactions; and best practices for seizing and securing cryptocurrency.

*Virtual currency basics. History of money and of virtual currency. Categorizing virtual currency.
*Blockchain. History of the blockchain. Understanding different protocols.
*Cryptocurrencies in detail. Bitcoin, Ethereum, Monero and other privacy coins.
*Investigative techniques. Seizing virtual currency; tracking transactions through the blockchain; documenting investigative results.

This course addresses key objectives focused on training intelligence analysts working at or towards the intermediate-level (practitioner and/or experienced analyst). This course expands upon core analytic fundamentals covered in NW3Cs FIAT, ISIA, and IWAB offerings. The course begins with an in-depth case study to illustrate the complexities and challenges of a major case scenario for intelligence analysts. The course then examines key concepts related to analytic thinking, cognitive biases, structured analytic techniques, and effective time and project management. Finally, the course concludes with a section on addressing analytic uncertainty in intelligence writing. With guidance from experienced experts, students gain hands-on experience in the course with a complex practical case scenario that will challenge students on both days of the course.

Key concepts covered in this course include:
*Identifying cognitive biases
*Structured analytic techniques
*Project and time management
*Conveying uncertainty in intelligence writing

This course introduces the problem of intellectual property theft and provides tools, techniques, and resources for investigating and prosecuting these crimes. A combination of lecture, discussion, and interactive exercises illustrates the potential dangers and economic repercussions of counterfeit products, as well as best practices and techniques for investigating IP theft. Students are provided with a state-specific folder that includes relevant statutes, sample organizational documents for IP investigations, and additional resources for investigators and prosecutors.

This course is presented in collaboration with the National Association of Attorneys General (NAAG).
Awareness. Types of IP crimes. The criminals who commit these crimes. Impacts and dangers.
Investigation. Online and traditional techniques. Working with brand experts and the private sector. Large amounts of evidence. Resources.
Statutes. Prosecutorial theories. State-specific discussion.
Hands-on experience. Work with real counterfeit products. Identify fakes with expert guidance.