Crypto at the intersection of finance and security threats

At the 10th Global Conference on Criminal Finances and Cryptoassets, a panel examined what crypto activity can reveal about sanctions evasion, sabotage, organised crime and other security threats. The discussion went beyond compliance and regulation. It treated crypto as part of a wider security picture that includes political interference and organised crime. Speakers said small payments can enable serious harm. Investigators should not focus only on large transactions. They should examine the networks and activities behind payments. Blockchain data becomes more useful intelligence when it is combined with open-source research, digital footprints and other investigative sources. Cases involving A7, A7A5 and TGR were used to show how networks combine crypto and traditional finance. These cases also show how such networks exploit gaps between jurisdictions. Effective responses require trained investigators, intelligence sharing across public and private sectors, and the integration of crypto into mainstream financial investigations. Sanctions can support freezing and disruption, especially when combined with asset seizures and action against enabling platforms. The central challenge is turning intelligence into timely action to disrupt networks, recover assets and protect communities. The conference took place on 15–16 September 2026 at the European Convention Center Luxembourg. It was jointly organised by Europol, UNODC and the Basel Institute on Governance and hosted by Luxembourg’s Bureau de gestion des avoirs.