Nancy Guthrie disappearance case puts spotlight on cryptocurrency tracking

PHOENIX – The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie has placed a renewed spotlight on the role of cryptocurrency in high-stakes crime, as alleged kidnappers reportedly demand a ransom paid in Bitcoin.

What they’re saying:

While Bitcoin was once a preferred tool for illicit transactions on the dark web, experts say technological advancements and the transparent nature of the blockchain have turned the digital currency into a trail for investigators.

“An address is just a string of characters, kind of like seeing a license plate number without the DMV records,” said David Richards, founder of BlockchainUnmasked.

Every time Bitcoin is bought, sold, or traded, he says the transaction is recorded on a permanent digital ledger known as the blockchain. This record is immutable and publicly viewable, allowing authorities to track the movement of funds from one digital wallet to another.

Dig deeper:

Richards described each transaction as a “breadcrumb” that creates a permanent, searchable trail. However, he noted that the Achilles’ heel for criminals occurs when they attempt to convert cryptocurrency into traditional cash.

“Bitcoin still has to interact with the real world at some point,” Richards said. “If you want to convert Bitcoin into cash, you need to do that through an intermediary. That’s typically where an identity can be established.”

Following the digital trail to a physical identity typically requires traditional police work, including warrants and subpoenas served to centralized exchanges.

As of Thursday, Feb. 12, there is no indication that a ransom has been paid in the Guthrie case.

What you can do:

Anyone with information in this case can call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.