Skip to content
FORENSIAWeb3 forensicsOpen workspace
FORENSIAOpen workspace
Menu
← The field guide
Assets / Illustrated lesson

Wrapping and unwrapping
The representation changes. Count the value carefully.

A wrapper can exchange a native asset for a token representation. Investigators should compare both sides of the operation before describing an inflow, outflow or gain.

Reading history stays in this browser. Manage it in My Explore.
  1. 01

    An asset enters the wrapper

  2. 02

    A token balance increases

  3. 03

    Redemption reverses the operation

Illustrative sequence. This diagram is a teaching aid, not a captured transaction.

What to collect

  1. Exact wrapper contract and code
  2. Native transfer or deposit call
  3. Token balance and withdrawal evidence
Before drawing a conclusion

Different wrappers use different rules. A name or symbol does not guarantee one-to-one redemption.

Test the idea

An account sends 2 ETH to a wrapper and receives 2 WETH. Did it lose 2 ETH with nothing in return?

Reveal the explanation

The representation changed. Include both sides of the operation before describing its economic effect.

Try a practice scenario ↗