For the first time in cryptocurrency history, Japanese authorities have successfully traced transactions made through Monero, a crypto known for its ability to preserve anonymity. This breakthrough has led to the arrest of 18 individuals accused of money laundering.
An unprecedented success in analyzing Monero transactions
The Japanese authorities have disclosed that they have analyzed approximately 900 transactions in Monero, totaling 100 million yen (just over 600,000 euros). This is the first time the Japanese police have been able to track and identify criminals through this cryptocurrency, known for its sophisticated privacy protection mechanisms. This arrest marks a major turning point in the fight against financial crimes involving untraceable digital currencies.
Among the 18 individuals arrested, Yuta Kobayashi, considered the group’s leader, is accused of orchestrating these money laundering operations using Monero, as well as computer fraud.
An investigation led by the new Japanese cybercrime unit
The group attempted to launder money by abusing the highly confidential cryptocurrency Monero, but the chain of events led to the identification of Kobayashi.
The members of this group have been under surveillance since August 2024, a few months after the creation of a new specialized cyber investigation unit. This unit, formed in April by the Japan National Police Agency, was established to address the rise of cybercrimes in the country.
This arrest demonstrates the increased capabilities of law enforcement in responding to new financial threats in the digital space, thanks to advanced analysis technologies in tracking transactions that were once considered impossible to follow.
