What is in a crypto investigation report?
By R.T. (Tyler) Dijst, blockchain investigator at Paucitas
The fixed sections of a crypto investigation report
The structure runs from background and scope of instruction, the question, the scope of the investigation and the starting assumptions, through the data supplied, the sources consulted, the method in outline and verification and quality assurance, to reservations and limitations, findings per section, chronological overview, analysis and coherence, conclusion, declaration of independence and the annexes.
Two sections are often underestimated. The reservations and limitations show what the report does not say, and the declaration of independence makes clear that Paucitas does not work for an exchange, a software supplier or a party involved in the case, and has no interest in the outcome.
What you supply
The material on the data list: transactions and hashes, addresses, exchange exports, correspondence and bank statements. Whatever is missing comes back in the section on limitations.
What you receive
The report itself with annexes, and on request a one page summary. Every finding carries the source it rests on, so a third party can follow and recalculate the reasoning.
On request we explain the report to your lawyer, your accountant or the other side.
How to get started
Get in touch with a short description of your case. In the intake we establish which purpose the report must serve, because that determines the structure.
European supervisors publish background on crypto assets and the rules that apply to them: see ESMA and EBA.
A report describes what can and cannot be established. It is not legal advice and not a judgement on liability.
Frequently asked questions
What is in a crypto investigation report?
Background and instruction, question, scope, assumptions, data and sources, method, verification, limitations, findings, chronology, analysis, conclusion, declaration of independence and annexes.
Does every report contain every section?
No. The size varies with the file and the structure is matched to the purpose of the report.
Why is there a declaration of independence?
Because it determines how much weight a lawyer or court can give to the findings.
Your own situation
If you are reading this, you probably have a question about your own situation. That is exactly what Paucitas does.
The first step is contact by phone. We prefer to schedule that call through WhatsApp, so you do not have to wait. In the call we look together at what can factually be established in your case and what Paucitas can examine for you.