This week's crypto podcast dives deep into some of the most intriguing and high-stakes topics in the blockchain space

This week's crypto podcast dives deep into some of the most intriguing and high-stakes topics in the blockchain space. From sophisticated crypto crime tactics to groundbreaking blockchain intelligence tools and even a wild discussion about Eskom's potential bitcoin mining future – this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss.

This week’s episode of the Moneyweb Crypto Pod is a bumper edition, packed with insights and analysis on some of the most intriguing and high-stakes topics in the blockchain space.

We’ll be tracking crypto crime with Carel de Jager, discussing advanced blockchain intelligence tools and hearing about how Lazarus Group laundered 1.5 billion in stolen crypto. Plus, we’ll consider if Eskom missed out on a billion-rand opportunity by not mining bitcoin.

Tracking crypto crime: Can we stop the hackers?

As crypto adoption rises, so too does the incidence of crime in the industry.

We’re joined by Carel de Jager, research group leader at the CSIR and CEO of SilverSixpence, to discuss the challenges and opportunities of investigating crypto transactions.

Despite being on a transparent ledger, these transactions require powerful data-crunching tools to extract useful intelligence.

The catch? The most advanced tools are expensive and controlled by firms in the Global North, making them inaccessible to many South African regulators and businesses.

Listen: Crypto scammers have met their match

The CSIR has developed an affordable, locally developed alternative known as Exochain.

This is an exciting breakthrough for financial security in SA. The tool is being used by law enforcement in SA and has successfully tracked stolen and hacked crypto.

The Lazarus Group and the billion-dollar crypto heist

North Korean hackers, the infamous Lazarus Group, have laundered over 1.5 billion in stolen crypto.

They used advanced tactics like splitting funds across thousands of wallets, tumbling services like Tornado Cash and moving assets through shady no-KYC (know your customer) exchanges to try and obscure the trail.

Read: SA crypto exchanges review security after R27.5bn hack at Bybit

The blockchain never forgets and as forensic tools evolve, investigators may still uncover their tracks in years to come.

Crypto security: Should you trust exchanges or go self-custody?

The age-old debate rages on: Should you store your crypto on an exchange or take full control with a hardware wallet?

De Jager gives a balanced take: Small traders might be fine on exchanges, but for life-changing money, self-custody is a must.

The problem? Many people lack the technical know-how to secure their assets properly. He calls for banks and financial institutions to step up and offer professional crypto custody solutions in South Africa.

Eskom and bitcoin mining: The missed billion-rand opportunity?

Here’s the jaw-dropper: If Eskom had mined bitcoin with its surplus power five years ago, it could have completely wiped out its debt and generated an extra R400 billion.

Yes, South Africa could be on a double-digit economic growth trajectory if only Eskom had leveraged bitcoin mining!

Listen: Why Eskom should consider bitcoin mining

Discussions are now heating up about Eskom potentially using bitcoin mining to stabilise the grid and generate revenue. Could this be the future of SA’s energy sector?

This episode offers valuable insights into the evolving world of blockchain, finance and energy. Whether you’re interested in crypto security, financial forensics or innovative energy solutions, it’s well worth a listen.

Tune in to the full episode for more details.

For previous Moneyweb Crypto Pod episodes, click here.

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