Design of Cryptopol: A serious game for teaching cryptocurrency tracing techniques to Law Enforcement

Tracing cryptocurrency transactions is a far from trivial process. This likely explains the increasing utilization by criminal networks for a significant amount of criminal activity, not just cybercrime, but any crime requiring monetary transfers [1]. It is therefore vitally important that adequate training exists and is readily available for both new and experienced investigators to ensure that they are familiar with the latest techniques, tools and trends. Traditional training methods can be costly and resource intensive, requiring highly qualified trainers to give their time to conduct training sessions. To address this issue, a training resource, in the form of a serious game, has been created. The game aims to provide a platform to improve the skills and expertise of law enforcement officers whilst reducing the workload of experienced investigators. This paper describes the collaborative design and development of the serious game Cryptopol in a partnership between Europol and CENTRIC, which is a multi-disciplinary and end-user focused Center of Excellence, located within Sheffield Hallam University. Cryptopol is the first cryptocurrency-tracing training game of its kind, used by over 1,500 people representing over 550 law enforcement agencies from across the world.

What is it about?

This paper discusses the challenges that students encounter while studying cybersecurity online. Researchers gathered feedback from students and industry professionals about their experiences, revealing issues like poor communication and low engagement in online courses. To address these problems, the authors propose a standardized framework aimed at improving online learning. This framework would help educators create more interactive and effective courses, ultimately enhancing student learning and preparation for careers in cybersecurity. In essence, the paper identifies current difficulties in online cybersecurity education and suggests ways to improve it for both students and teachers.

Why is it important?

This paper is crucial for the future of cybersecurity education as it directly addresses the challenges faced by students in online learning environments, a format that has become increasingly prevalent. By incorporating insights from both postgraduate students and industry experts, the research highlights significant barriers such as ineffective communication and low engagement, which can hinder the learning experience. The proposed standardized framework is a vital step towards enhancing the quality and effectiveness of online cybersecurity courses, ensuring that educators are better equipped to foster interactive and motivating learning environments. This approach not only improves student outcomes but also aligns educational practices with the evolving demands of the cybersecurity industry, ultimately preparing students for successful careers in a field that is critical to global security.