From 8 to 9 April 2025, the CyberSEE European Union-Council of Europe joint project, in close cooperation with the Western Balkans Criminal Justice (WBCJ) Project, the European Judicial Cybercrime Network (EJCN) and the SIRIUS Project, successfully concluded a regional workshop on cryptocurrencies, electronic evidence and cooperation with service providers in Warsaw, Poland.
Held at the National Prosecutor’s Office of Poland under the auspices of the Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, the event brought together over 40 cybercrime investigators, prosecutors, judges, and representatives from Financial Intelligence Units (FIUs) from across South-East Europe to strengthen their practical skills and legal understanding in tackling cybercrime involving virtual currencies and digital evidence. The workshop also featured live case studies and interactive discussions, encouraging cross-border dialogue and real-time problem-solving among practitioners.
The participants gained insights into mechanisms for international cooperation, with a special focus on the Second Additional Protocol to the Cybercrime Convention, and deeper knowledge of practical tools for investigating the illegal use of virtual assets, such as the Guide on Seizing Cryptocurrencies.
The growing need for enhanced international cooperation was emphasized by the participants who referred to the importance of swift and secure access to electronic evidence, particularly in cross-border contexts, where collaboration with service providers plays a critical role.
By building capacity and fostering professional networks, the workshop contributed to harmonizing national approaches with international legal standards and promoting a more coordinated response to cyber-enabled crime.
The CyberSEE Project remains committed to supporting countries in the region in their efforts to strengthen the rule of law in the digital age, enhance the handling of electronic evidence, and address the emerging challenges posed by digital finance and global service platforms.
Convention on Cybercrime (Budapest Convention)
Second Additional Protocol to the Budapest Convention
Octopus Platform - Guide on Seizing Cryptocurrencies
Western Balkans Criminal Justice (WBCJ) Project