Resources
Frequently asked questions
Straight answers about what IARB handles, what the process involves, and what you can realistically expect.
What types of cases do you handle?
We handle digital asset incidents including cryptocurrency scams, investment fraud, wallet compromise, unauthorized transactions, and phishing or account compromise. Cases involving traditional financial fraud are assessed on their digital component.
Can you recover stolen cryptocurrency?
No recovery outcome can be stated as absolute, and we do not work on a guarantee basis. What we do is examine what is documented, trace movement wherever the information allows, and assemble findings that let you pursue recovery with exchanges, providers or legal professionals. Outcomes still depend on factors outside our control.
How long does an investigation take?
Timelines vary considerably by case complexity, the availability of information, the jurisdictions involved and third-party response times. After initial assessment we provide an expected timeframe and update you if it changes materially.
What information should I provide?
Useful information includes the incident date, the platform or wallet involved, wallet addresses, transaction hashes, amounts, the sequence of events, and any correspondence with counterparties. Screenshots and platform records are valuable.
Can I submit blockchain transaction IDs?
Yes. Transaction hashes (TXIDs) and wallet addresses are among the most useful items you can provide, as they allow transaction records to be examined directly.
Do you work with international cases?
Yes. Cases are handled across jurisdictions. Where local requirements, local legal processes or regulated data-transfer rules affect a case, we identify them and advise accordingly.
Will I get my funds back?
No one can guarantee a recovery outcome. What the International Asset Recovery Bureau can do is trace lost assets definitively wherever the information allows, document precisely what is found, and provide the actionable findings required to pursue recovery with counterparties, exchanges and financial institutions.
How is my information handled?
Case information is stored in an access-controlled environment and is only available to you and authorized personnel handling your case. Access is logged, and we do not sell or share client information with third parties.
Can I update my case after submitting it?
Yes. You can add documents, send messages and provide additional information at any time through the client portal. Changes are reflected in the case record.
Can I communicate with an investigator?
Yes. Messages in the client portal are associated with your case and are read by the personnel handling it. You can expect responses during working hours, though response time depends on case activity.