The US Secret Service revealed that they “definitely own the cryptocurrency,” that they have a collection of non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and said that the cryptocurrency has made it easier to track illicit money flows than before.
Answering questions from the public during the session AMA (ask me anything) on Reddit on Monday, officials from the Secret Service offices in the San Francisco area explained that they are deeply passionate about cryptocurrencies and the possibilities that blockchain technology provides.
The Secret Service, which in addition to protecting important political leaders is responsible for investigating certain financial crimes, said that their work today “often involves the world of cryptocurrencies.”
Notably, agents said in the AMA that the “vast majority” of reports they receive in their office involve cryptocurrency in one way or another.
The AMA was announced in advance by the Secret Service, and the initiative reportedly aimed to educate crypto enthusiasts about recent crimes and provide them with valuable information on how to avoid becoming victims.
The AMA was co-hosted by the San Francisco Secret Service and REACT, the law enforcement agency’s regional joint computer group.
Crypto is an ‘amazing opportunity’
Perhaps surprisingly, Secret Service agents also said they see criminals’ shift from cash to cryptocurrency as an “amazing opportunity” for them to better track the movement of illicit funds.
When asked about the difference between illegal cryptocurrency and fiat transactions, agents again indicated that cryptocurrency makes their job easier because “transactions are irreversible and immutable.”
Those looking to cover their tracks should opt for cash transactions instead of cryptocurrency, the agents said in response to another question.
In other responses, agents also referred to themselves as cryptocurrency “enthusiasts.”
Additionally, they have made it clear that they are happy to share what they know and have stated that they are eager to learn from the crypto community.
Finally, Secret Service agents said in response to questions that they are looking to expand their team of crypto experts and encouraged those interested in the field to apply.
“Do you want to leverage your passion for cryptocurrency or cybersecurity? We aim to hire 450 Special Agents this year,” they wrote, urging those interested to visit their website for more information.
