The Australian Taxation Office (ATO), via a Request for Tender (RFT), is seeking a Blockchain Analysis and Investigation Tool to enhance its ability to track and investigate crypto asset transactions. As the use of blockchain and digital currencies expands, the ATO aims to ensure it can effectively detect fraudulent activity, counter financial crimes, and uphold compliance with taxation and anti-money laundering regulations.
The ATO is looking for an industry-leading, cloud-based tool that can provide real-time blockchain transaction monitoring, address attribution, and forensic investigation capabilities. Key features must include:
- Search Functionality – Identify crypto asset addresses and transactions across major blockchains, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tron, Solana, Polygon, and BNB Smart Chain.
- Transaction Analysis – Provide detailed data on transactions, including token values, fiat equivalents, transaction hashes, and counterparty addresses.
- Mapping and Visualisation – Enable graphical representation of transaction flows, including cross-chain token swaps.
- Address Attribution – Use heuristic models to identify crypto addresses linked to individuals, entities, and high-risk services such as mixers, dark web marketplaces, and sanctioned entities.
- Geolocation Data – Incorporate IP address observations and VPN/Tor detection, with a focus on Australian activity.
- Export and Reporting Features – Allow data export in CSV and PDF formats, with no restrictions on sharing with domestic and international partner agencies.
The real-time capability of the tool is a critical requirement, ensuring that blockchain data is updated instantly or near-instantly to provide accurate, up-to-date transaction insights. The solution must also be cloud-based, support at least seven concurrent users, and provide customisable graphs, filtering options, and annotation capabilities.
The successful service provider must offer comprehensive training and tradecraft development, including detailed documentation and knowledge transfer to ATO personnel.
Tender responses will be assessed based on:
- Software functionality (50%) – The extent to which the proposed solution meets the ATO’s core functionality requirements, including real-time transaction analysis.
- System functionality (25%) – Compliance with system performance, accessibility, scalability, and security requirements.
- Service provider requirements (25%) – Availability of documentation, training materials, and adherence to ATO policies and procedures.
- Financial considerations (Unweighted) – Total cost of ownership, pricing structure, and overall value for money.
The initial contract period will run for 12 months, with options to extend by two additional one-year periods.
This initiative is a crucial step in strengthening the ATO’s ability to investigate illicit blockchain activities and ensure regulatory compliance in Australia’s evolving crypto economy.
The closing time and date for responses will remain open until the 15th of April 2024.
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