Sextortion is a growing global cybercrime that preys on victims by coercing them into paying ransom under the threat of exposing sensitive material. Recent research by the Complexity Science Hub (CSH) highlights the increasing scale of this issue and how data-driven approaches can help combat it. At Iknaio, we are deeply connected to this research—both through our technology and our collaborations with law enforcement.

Iknaio and Graphsense: Science-Driven Crypto Investigations

Founded in 2021 on scientific principles, Iknaio emerged from a mission to empower trusted entities in securing the crypto ecosystem. Our journey began with the development of Graphsense, the leading open-source crypto tracing solution designed to enhance transparency and data sovereignty in blockchain investigations.

One of the key figures behind Graphsense is Bernhard Haslhofer, who is not only a Faculty member at CSH but also Co-Founder of Iknaio. His expertise in blockchain analytics and financial crime research has been instrumental in shaping Graphsense, which today serves as the foundation for Iknaio’s investigative platform.

Collaborating with Law Enforcement: Bavaria Takes a Stand

The fight against sextortion requires close cooperation between research institutions, technology providers, and law enforcement agencies. In Germany, the Bavarian Central Office for the Prosecution of Cybercrime (ZCB) is actively tackling crypto-related cybercrime, including sextortion cases.

Iknaio’s expertise and technology have played a vital role in supporting these investigations. Our crypto forensic solutions enable the Bavarian law enforcement to trace illicit financial flows, identify criminal networks, and disrupt sextortion schemes. This collaboration was recently recognized in a press conference held by the Bavarian State Minister of Justice Georg Eisenreich, Chief Prosecutor Thomas Goger, and our Head of Research Bernhard Haslhofer where the importance of advanced blockchain analytics in law enforcement efforts was emphasized.

Strengthening the Fight Against Cybercrime

Iknaio enables investigators to track illicit funds, uncover financial crime patterns, and assist authorities in holding perpetrators accountable. Our partnership with institutions like CSH and law enforcement agencies like the ZCB demonstrates how scientific innovation and real-world application can work hand in hand to combat cybercrime effectively.

A Call to Action

Sextortion is a growing threat, but through interdisciplinary collaboration, we can stay ahead of criminals. Iknaio remains committed to advancing crypto forensics, supporting law enforcement & the financial industry for ensuring a safer crypto ecosystem.