PrivKey LLC
PrivKey

"Ecash got reintroduced with the two open source projects Fedimint and Cashu. In my opinion, the main reason for this revival is the following fact: Unlike an implementation of ecash in the fiat world, that would rely on the permissioned system to “allow” something like ecash to exist, bitcoin does not come with that limitation. The permissionless nature of bitcoin allows for these protocols to exist and interoperate with the existing bitcoin stack." — Gandlaf21
Can a centralized and custodial system like Ecash, which prioritizes user privacy, peacefully coexist with Bitcoin's decentralized and permissionless architecture?
Or does it undermine the principle of self-custody, potentially luring users away from personally holding their coins?
This examination dives into the advantages and disadvantages of Ecash, considering whether it can offer a more private and accessible experience for users intimidated by the intricacies of managing their own cryptocurrency, and what this might mean for the evolution of financial services.
A more pressing concern is the possibility that Central Bank Digital Coins (CBDCs) or private bank digital coins may adopt the Ecash system, potentially leveraging its privacy features to create a more palatable and user-friendly experience for their customers. This could have far-reaching implications for the future of financial services, as it may enable traditional financial institutions to offer digital currencies that combine the benefits of cryptocurrency with the convenience and familiarity of traditional banking.
The key issue is whether the integration of Ecash with CBDCs or private bank digital coins could coexist as a complementary solution that expands the reach and accessibility of digital currencies. As the financial landscape continues to evolve, it is essential to examine the potential benefits and drawbacks of Ecash and its potential applications in the context of CBDCs and private bank digital coins.
Link to article: Ecash on Bitcoin
https://primal.net/e/naddr1qvzqqqr4gupzp394x6dfmvn69cduj7e9l2jgvtvle7n5w5rtrunjlr6tx6up9k7kqqt52cmpwd5z6mmw94pxjarrda5kuttfwdc8v6t3tqxfp0

2024-12-20 15:04:26 UTC

Phishing Scams: A Threat to Your Digital Life. As we rely more on technology, our phones, and email accounts become the main doors to our personal info and money.
To stay safe, it's a good idea to be suspicious of any messages or requests from people you don't know, and assume they might be trying to scam you until you're sure they're legitimate.
How to Lose a Fortune with Just One Bad Click
https://krebsonsecurity.com/2024/12/how-to-lose-a-fortune-with-just-one-bad-click

2024-12-15 14:42:33 UTC

Digital Gold is reviving the concept of sound money for humanity, offering a store of value that endures over time and can be easily transferred across distances, thereby overcoming the limitations of physical gold in the digital age.
Digital Gold = Bitcoin

2024-12-14 14:56:28 UTC

Strike, a global bitcoin payments service, has expanded to 65 more countries across six continents, introducing USDT (U.S. dollar equivalent) support and a revamped app. This development has significant implications for global adoption, particularly in countries with weak currencies or high inflation rates.
The expansion brings Strike's effective reach to 3 billion people, with the ultimate goal of serving 7-8 billion worldwide. The service promotes financial inclusion, economic stability, and global connectivity by:
1. Providing access to a stable financial system for underserved communities.
2. Mitigating inflation effects with a U.S. dollar equivalent stablecoin.
3. Facilitating cross-border transactions and international trade.
Overall, Strike's expansion is an important development in the world of finance, with potential to promote economic stability and global connectivity.
Strike Expands Global Reach, Introduces USDT Support And Unveils Enhanced App At Bitcoin 2023 Conference
https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/strike-expands-global-reach-introduces-usdt-support-and-unveils-enhanced-app-at-bitcoin

2024-12-14 14:03:33 UTC

Discrete Log Contracts have existed for some time, but development can be challenging due to the numerous potential pitfalls. The DLC DevKit aims to simplify this process by providing a streamlined approach to building DLC projects. Leveraging rust-dlc under the hood, it cleverly abstracts the Oracle, Storage, and Transport components through traits, making development more manageable. This tool is definitely worth exploring if you're interested in creating a DLC application.
Introduction to DlcDevKit
Creating DLC applications is hard, but it does not have to be. DlcDevKit allows application developers to focus on the user experience. Not the complexities of Bitcoin and DLCs.
https://bennyb.dev/blog/dlcdevkit/

2024-12-10 17:40:21 UTC

“Ossification is complacency. Yes, we all agree that Bitcoin is great. But _I do not agree_ that Bitcoin has reached its full potential. I think complacency is one of the greatest threats to Bitcoin — we must not rest upon our laurels.” — Lopp
The debate between ossification and continuous development of the Bitcoin protocol is a complex one, with valid arguments on both sides. On one hand, ossification — or making the protocol more stable and unchanging — can provide a sense of security and predictability, which is crucial for a global financial system. It can also prevent unintended consequences or exploits that could arise from frequent changes.
On the other hand, continuous development and planning for future soft forks can ensure the protocol stays relevant, adapts to emerging technologies, and addresses any issues that may arise. This approach can also help to improve the user experience, scalability, and overall performance of the network.
However, whether to change Bitcoin or not might be a false dichotomy. It's possible that the answer lies in a middle ground, where certain aspects of the protocol are allowed to evolve while others remain stable. Perhaps the focus should be on creating a framework that allows for gradual, carefully considered changes, rather than a binary choice between complete ossification and constant development.
Ultimately, the path forward will depend on the priorities and values of the Bitcoin community. Is the goal to create a digital gold standard, prioritizing security and stability above all else, or is it to create a more dynamic, adaptable system that can evolve to meet the needs of its users? By examining these underlying values and priorities, we may be able to find a more nuanced approach that balances the need for stability with the need for innovation and progress.
Article “On Ossification” by Jameson Lopp
https://blog.lopp.net/on-ossification/

2024-12-09 15:49:27 UTC

Bitcoin and crypto executives speak out on debanking
Having a bitcoin treasury can be beneficial for businesses, particularly in cases of debanking, as it provides a financial safety net and flexibility during times of economic uncertainty or systemic instability. By controlling your own keys, you maintain the ability to conduct transactions on the bitcoin network without interference or restriction from external parties.
Crypto execs open up about debanking experiences following Trump's US election win
https://www.theblock.co/post/328792/crypto-debanking

2024-12-09 14:39:26 UTC

Solana Web3.js library backdoored to steal secret, private keys
https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/solana-web3js-library-backdoored-to-steal-secret-private-keys/

2024-12-04 16:02:49 UTC

“Imagine a sports game where different players are motivated by distinct incentives, defenders aiming to pull the ball outside the field, midfielders prioritizing maximum passes, attackers focused on scoring the most goals, goalkeepers rewarded for saving the most shots, and coaches for the most words shouted from the bench. You can imagine that will not be an optimal team performance when they step on the field, the team winning should be prioritized over any individual player's performance.” — Ivan Makedonski
Is it possible for Bitcoin and the Lightning Network to revolutionize industries like construction by aligning incentives and streamlining processes? Ivan Makedonski delves into the potential for instant settlement to upend traditional sectors, paving the way for novel collaborations and innovations.
Link to article at Instant Settlement: The Construction Industry by Ivan Makedonski
https://bitcoinmagazine.com/technical/instant-settlement-the-construction-industry

2024-12-04 14:22:02 UTC

US Officials Urge Americans to Use Encrypted Apps Amid Unprecedented Cyberattack
FBI and CISA officials said it was impossible to predict when the telecommunications companies would be fully safe from interlopers.
https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/security/us-officials-urge-americans-use-encrypted-apps-cyberattack-rcna182694
“Amid an unprecedented cyberattack on telecommunications companies such as AT&T and Verizon, U.S. officials have recommended that Americans use encrypted messaging apps to ensure their communications stay hidden from foreign hackers…”

2024-12-02 19:06:08 UTC

Ecash mints funded with Spillman channels: The ultimate nodeless Lightning wallet
https://gist.github.com/lukechilds/307341239beac72c9d8cfe3198f9bfff
Critics of eCash protocols have long argued that trusting the minter is a significant vulnerability.
This protocol addresses that concern by utilizing a modified Spillman channel, which significantly reduces the custody risk associated with eCash transfers. By providing users with a unilateral exit transaction, they can recover their funds even if the eCash mint becomes insolvent.
Conversely, the eCash mint can also retrieve the funds spent by customers through their own unilateral exit transaction. This payment channel concept bears resemblance to Lightning, but with the eCash mint acting as the counterparty.
Considering its privacy benefits, this solution appears to tick all the boxes for private, self-custodial, scalable, and instantaneous payments on Bitcoin.

2024-12-02 18:49:14 UTC

Tando: Bitcoin Adoption In Kenya
Discover The latest Bitcoin Platform that allows anyone to easily spend Bitcoin anywhere in Kenya.
https://www.blink.sv/blog/tando-bitcoin-adoption-in-kenya
Tando, a Kenyan lightning app, is uniquely valuable due to its role as a medium of exchange.
By enabling users to connect to the primary payments network in Kenyan Shillings via lightning, it achieves something rare globally - seamless integration of a local currency with the lightning network.
With a Bitcoin conference scheduled for December in Kenya, it will be fascinating to observe user experiences, especially among foreign attendees.

2024-12-02 18:42:37 UTC

A novel layer 2 solution on the Bitcoin network is utilizing the statechains protocol, boasting an exciting integration with Lightning that enables payment of Lightning invoices through third-party facilitators.
Its primary draw is the exceptionally low fees. Notably, numerous L2 solutions are seamlessly interacting with Lightning, leveraging innovative integrations to significantly amplify scaling capabilities.
https://spark.info

2024-12-02 17:55:21 UTC

Shielded CSV Protocol 🛡️
A revolutionary design for blockchains, compatible with Bitcoin
https://bitcoinmagazine.com/technical/shielded-csv-protocol-
This explanation provides a more approachable take on Blockstream's technical paper. The core concept is to shift validation responsibilities from the entire network to only those with a vested interest. However, as noted in the article, a bridge is necessary to make this work without requiring a fork. One possible method for implementing such a bridge is through the use of BitVM.

2024-12-01 23:29:31 UTC

The article discusses the importance of security on the dark web, a hidden part of the internet that's not indexed by search engines and requires special software to access. It highlights the risks of using the dark web, including the presence of malicious actors and law enforcement surveillance.
To mitigate these risks, the article recommends using a virtual private network (VPN), Tor browser, and Pretty Good Privacy (PGP) encryption.
Additionally, it advises users to be cautious when accessing dark web marketplaces and to never use their real identity or share personal information.
By taking these precautions, users can minimize their exposure to potential threats and maintain their anonymity on the dark web.
The fascinating security model of dark web marketplaces
https://boehs.org/node/dark-web-security

2024-11-28 13:24:10 UTC

“This is also an interesting case study in how Bitcoin resists duplication. You can create something which looks cosmetically similar to Bitcoin, but you cannot replicate the settlement assurances which derive from the costliness of the ledger.” — Nic Carter
A masterpiece that clarifies one of Bitcoin's most misconstrued aspects: the value it offers and why it remains unrivaled. This article, 'It's the Settlement Assurances, Stupid' by Nic Carter, will enlighten you on why there's no viable alternative to Bitcoin.
Article “It’s the settlement assurances, stupid
How to evaluate blockchains” by Nic Carter
https://medium.com/@nic__carter/its-the-settlement-assurances-stupid-5dcd1c3f4e41

2024-11-26 14:12:51 UTC

“Panic is rising. Bitcoin, the way out of their giant Ponzi scheme, does not want to die, but the survival of the fiat system depends on the lack of an alternative. The entire system is therefore in danger.” — Alexandre Stachtchenko
The European Central Bank (ECB) has released another lengthy “research” paper, this time 20 pages long, warning of the economic dangers of a potential future where Bitcoin continues to exist.
The same authors who have long dismissed Bitcoin as a worthless, doomed bubble are at it again, spewing more nonsense. However, as Bitcoin refuses to burst and continues to thrive, it's the ECB's own credibility that's taking a hit.
Beneath the paper's blatant intellectual dishonesty, is the ECB inadvertently conceding a crucial point?
Are they, despite their best efforts to conceal it, acknowledging that Bitcoin might have some value after all?
Does their writing betray a sense of desperation, a growing unease that their anti-Bitcoin rhetoric is no longer convincing?
Great read:
The Great Capitulation
https://medium.com/@AlexStach/the-great-capitulation-a738a2969116

2024-11-25 13:49:34 UTC

Have you seen the DCA Dollar Cost Average calculator?
It allows you to input a date and amount, then shows you the potential value of your savings over time.
This tool is useful for illustrating how small, consistent savings can add up significantly. It can also motivate those who haven't started saving yet by demonstrating the potential savings they could have achieved with a regular savings plan, such as $50 per month.
Additionally, it's a great way for savers to indulge in “what if” scenarios, imagining the potential returns they could have earned if they had started saving earlier.
https://dcabtc.com

2024-11-21 19:17:58 UTC

"There is no justice in following unjust laws. It's time to come into the light and in the grand tradition of civil disobedience declare our opposition to this private theft of public culture. We need to take information wherever it is stored make our copies and share them with the world. We need to take stuff that's out of copyright and add it to the archive.
We need to buy secret databases and put them on the web. We need to download scientific journals and upload them to file sharing networks. We need to fight for guerrilla openaccess." — Aaron Swartz
What are the consequences when those in power suppress the pursuit of knowledge and information?
Is unrestricted idea exchange a fundamental moral right, and what happens to those who defy authority by seeking truth and challenging established norms?
The original article "Guerrilla Open Access Manifesto" --Aaron Swartz
https://archive.org/stream/GuerillaOpenAccessManifesto/Goamjuly2008_djvu.txt

2024-11-20 13:26:50 UTC

Apple Confirms Zero-Day Attacks Hitting macOS Systems
Apple rushes out out major macOS and iOS security updates to cover a pair of vulnerabilities already being exploited in the wild.
https://www.securityweek.com/apple-confirms-zero-day-attacks-hitting-intel-based-macs/

2024-11-18 13:44:49 UTC

ChatGPT-4 Beat Doctors at Diagnosing Illness, Study Finds
Dr. Adam Rodman, a Boston-based internal medicine expert, helped design a study testing 50 licensed physicians to see whether ChatGPT improved their diagnoses, reports the New York TImes. The results? "Doctors who were given ChatGPT-4 along with conventional resources did only slightly better than doctors who did not have access to the bot.
Large Language Model Influence on Diagnostic Reasoning
A Randomized Clinical Trial
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2825395

2024-11-14 19:18:59 UTC

A pioneering exchange in Mexico has taken a significant step by prioritizing Lightning Network integration, enabling users to send funds to any Mexican bank account via Lightning.
The next logical step would be incorporating BOLT12 recurring payments. This development brings us closer to the ultimate goal of a seamless Bitcoin experience, where users can automatically convert their Bitcoin to cover expenses as bills arrive.
The demand for such a service is palpable – now it's up to developers to make it a reality.
Instant bitcoin to pesos
Lightning-powered swaps to send pesos to any bank account in Mexico. Pay your rent, send money to a friend, buy tacos, pay for a ride, and more - all with bitcoin
https://www.swapido.com/en

2024-11-14 19:10:18 UTC

Simplicity, a smart contract language offering enhanced provability and expressiveness, has been deployed on the Liquid Testnet.
Developers can now program directly in Simplicity or utilize Simfony, a Rust-like language developed by Blockstream, which compiles down to Simplicity.
This marks a significant milestone, as Simplicity's eventual deployment on mainnet will bring smart contracts into direct interaction with actual Bitcoin, providing a true test of their utility and value.
Simplicity Arrives on Liquid Testnet
https://blog.blockstream.com/simplicity-arrives-on-liquid-testnet/

2024-11-12 13:53:33 UTC

New Ymir Ransomware Exploits Memory for Stealthy Attacks; Targets Corporate Networks
https://thehackernews.com/2024/11/new-ymir-ransomware-exploits-memory-for.html

2024-11-11 15:16:57 UTC

Hello, Rootstock Swaps! 👋
https://blog.boltz.exchange/p/hello-rootstock-swaps

2024-11-11 13:42:55 UTC

Why Communication Metadata Matters
https://ssd.eff.org/module/why-metadata-matters

2024-11-09 16:11:47 UTC

Imagine a search engine where you pay a small fee per search, mere pennies, but with a twist: the incentives are aligned in your favor.
The goal is to provide you with quality results, so you'll return, rather than bombarding you with ads.
This model is refreshingly customer-centric, unlike traditional search engines like Google, which can be quick to cancel users who don't fit their mold.
It's an approach that puts the user first, and one that hopefully, more of the web will adopt in the future.
Athenut search engine:
https://athenut.com

2024-11-09 15:41:36 UTC

What's the secret to attaining genuine freedom and autonomy in our digital existence?
Despite numerous attempts, we continue to accumulate knowledge as networks naturally gravitate towards a centralized authority or oligopoly.
This entity initially provides a service but eventually exploits its power. What drives this phenomenon, and how can we avoid it?
Is it an unavoidable outcome, or are we merely witnessing a gradual evolution, failing to recognize the obvious trajectory unfolding before us?
One possible explanation lies in the inherent dynamics of network growth. As networks expand, they tend to centralize around hubs or nodes that offer greater efficiency, convenience, or value.
This centralization can foster the emergence of dominant players, which may eventually abuse their power. Another factor is the human tendency to prioritize convenience over autonomy.
We often favor ease of use and streamlined experiences over maintaining control over our digital lives. This trade-off can lead to a gradual erosion of autonomy as we become increasingly reliant on centralized services.
To prevent this cycle, we must prioritize decentralized systems and technologies that empower individuals to maintain control over their data and digital interactions.
This might involve supporting alternative networks and platforms that promote user autonomy, investing in decentralized infrastructure, and advocating for policies that safeguard digital rights.
Moreover, it's crucial to recognize that achieving true freedom and autonomy in our digital lives is an ongoing process, requiring continuous learning, adaptation, and innovation.
By acknowledging the historical patterns and pitfalls of network growth, we can work towards creating a more decentralized, equitable, and autonomous digital landscape.
Ultimately, the path to genuine digital freedom is not inevitable, but it does require a concerted effort to recognize the risks and opportunities inherent in network growth. And to make informed choices about the kind of digital world we want to create.
“The server owns your data, owns your account, and owns the cryptographic keys used to secure it.
That last bit is obscure, but important. Cryptographic keys are how we enforce security, privacy, ownership, and control in software. Not your keys, not your data.”
— Gordon Brander
This fantastic article by Gordon Brander on the evolution of networks, and the emergence of Nostr will enlighten.
Article:
Nature's many attempts to evolve a Nostr
https://newsletter.squishy.computer/p/natures-many-attempts-to-evolve-a

2024-10-25 15:49:09 UTC

"The market of bitcoin holders will ultimately expand to be larger than the size of any single country, and direct exchange will be possible by and between more people than ever before.
That itself might be the single largest driving force that will expand the scope of trade and direct exchange–more people holding and being willing to accept bitcoin will create more trade channels than could possibly exist in the fiat world." — Parker Lewis
Does bitcoin's value surge as it becomes more user-friendly for transactions?
This article delves into the concept that bitcoin's value is tied to its effectiveness as a currency and explores the potential implications for its future growth and mainstream acceptance.
Article: Bitcoin's Exchange Theory of Value
https://graduallythensuddenly.xyz/exchange-theory-of-value/

2024-10-18 17:49:53 UTC

You can enhance the security of your account by using a YubiKey, which offers greater protection compared to SMS-based two-factor authentication (2FA).
To add a security key to your account, visit the website's settings or security section, insert the YubiKey into a USB port or tap it against your phone for NFC support.
Follow the instructions provided by the website to associate the YubiKey with your account, and store the device in a safe place for future use during login.
How to use two-factor authentication
https://help.x.com/en/managing-your-account/two-factor-authentication

2024-10-17 19:31:02 UTC

"A victory in revolution doesn’t come free or easy. For Bitcoin to really do what many of us hope it can, it’s really necessary at the end of the day to walk a painful path.
And that means people have to choose to walk it. Many people in this space think that governments will simply roll over and let Bitcoin win, but that is just a feint to move in and capture it.
We need to push to build around them, build in parallel, and force their hand. If they don’t actively fight it, then there is something else going on. That isn’t good for us." — Shinobi
The possible paths for Bitcoin's future, as outlined in an article by Shinobi, include capitulation to the existing financial system, a revolution against it, or fragmentation into smaller, less effective networks.
These possibilities are explored in the context of the 2013 musings of Mircea Popescu. The future of Bitcoin will depend on various factors, including its ability to maintain its decentralized and open nature, its adoption by the general public, and its potential to disrupt the traditional financial system.
SHINOBI: There's Three Doors. Which One Will Bitcoin Step Through?
A look at a prolific post by the infamous Mircea Popescu, positing with a rare clairvoyance the possible paths that Bitcoin could take in its road into the future.
https://bitcoinmagazine.com/culture/the-three-doors-which-one-will-bitcoin-step-through

2024-10-10 13:46:58 UTC

Imagine a scenario where Bitcoin becomes the most reliable price indicator for the global economy, even if it doesn't yet serve as a primary medium of exchange.
In this scenario, Bitcoin's value would likely remain a pure risk asset, unencumbered by external factors such as supply changes, market conditions, or jurisdictional economic effects.
Its price movements would potentially offer a clear, unbiased reflection of global liquidity and monetary supply, making it a superior asset for directional correlation with economic conditions.
But what if the analysis in this peace confirmed this notion? Sam Callahan and Lyn Alden, who have conducted a groundbreaking investigation into Bitcoin's role in the global economy.
Their findings may surprise you - and offer valuable insights into the potential of this emerging asset class. Don't miss this exclusive exploration of Bitcoin's surprising significance in the world of finance.
"These findings are notable because they demonstrate that even though the strength of the correlation may vary based on the time frame, Bitcoin’s price direction generally aligns with the direction of global liquidity.
Furthermore, its price direction more closely mirrors global liquidity than any other traditional asset analyzed." — Sam Callahan
Original article: "Bitcoin: A Global Liquidity Barometer"
https://www.lynalden.com/bitcoin-a-global-liquidity-barometer/

2024-10-08 17:30:18 UTC

The article "Massive US security breach highlights danger of weakening encryption" sheds light on a significant security breach in the US, dubbed "Salt Typhoon", emphasizing the risks of undermining encryption.
The breach, which is believed to have originated from a foreign entity, has far-reaching implications and demonstrates the critical importance of robust encryption in safeguarding sensitive information.
By highlighting the devastating consequences of weakened encryption, the article underscores the need for governments and organizations to prioritize the security and integrity of encrypted data, rather than compromising it for the sake of surveillance or other interests.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between national security and individual privacy, and the imperative of adopting a proactive approach to protecting digital communications.
Massive US security breach highlights danger of weakening encryption
https://proton.me/blog/salt-typhoon

2024-10-08 13:18:08 UTC

A recent 48-page report has likened smart TVs to a "digital Trojan Horse" due to their invasive data harvesting practices.
The report claims that connected TVs and streaming devices are collecting a vast amount of sensitive user data, including viewing habits, location, and even conversations, often without users' knowledge or consent.
This data is then used for targeted advertising, and in some cases, even sold to third-party companies, raising serious concerns about consumer privacy and manipulation.
The report is urging regulatory bodies, such as the FTC and FCC, to investigate the connected TV industry's practices and take action to protect consumers from this unprecedented level of surveillance and manipulation.
Smart TVs are like “a digital Trojan Horse” in people’s homes
48-page report urges FTC, FCC to investigate connected TV industry data harvesting.
https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2024/10/streaming-industry-has-unprecedented-surveillance-manipulation-capabilities/

2024-10-05 13:49:26 UTC

Michael Saylor's open source calculator to determine if 0.1 Bitcoin is enough to retire by the year 2030
Bitcoin24 Calculator ► https://github.com/bitcoin-model/bitcoin_model/blob/main/Bitcoin24%20v1.0.xlsm

2024-09-28 14:50:50 UTC

HiveTalk
Free browser based Real-time video calls.
No download, plug-in, or login is required. It's that easy. Just get straight to talking, messaging, and sharing your screen.
https://hivetalk.org

2024-09-28 14:16:15 UTC

"Bitcoin implicates the First Amendment. As a system for collecting and communicating information ranging from payment data to art, bitcoin is speech.
As a statement of protest against the government’s monopoly over money, bitcoin is expressive conduct. And as a collection of individuals that share bitcoin’s hard-coded principles of individual liberty, anti-censorship, and anti-debasement, bitcoin is an expressive association.
Bitcoin is free speech protected by the First Amendment and therefore regulating bitcoin has clear constitutional implications."
Download: Bitcoin’s Protection under the First Amendment --Ross Stevens.
https://nydig.com/research/bitcoins-protection-under-the-first-amendment

2024-09-26 13:39:17 UTC

Uniting for Internet Freedom: Tor Project & Tails Join Forces
https://blog.torproject.org/tor-tails-join-forces/
In short, coming together will strengthen both organizations' ability to protect people worldwide from surveillance and censorship.

2024-09-25 13:46:18 UTC

A Must Read!
"We the Cypherpunks are dedicated to building anonymous systems. We are defending our privacy with cryptography, with anonymous mail forwarding systems, with digital signatures, and with electronic money.
Cypherpunks write code. We know that someone has to write software to defend privacy, and since we can't get privacy unless we all do, we're going to write it. We publish our code so that our fellow Cypherpunks may practice and play with it.
Our code is free for all to use, worldwide. We don't much care if you don't approve of the software we write. We know that software can't be destroyed and that a widely dispersed system can't be shut down.
Cypherpunks deplore regulations on cryptography, for encryption is fundamentally a private act."
A Cypherpunk's Manifesto, by Eric Hughes (9 March 1993).
https://www.activism.net/cypherpunk/manifesto.html

2024-09-25 13:38:03 UTC

"Sadly, there has been very little in the way of a clear definition of MEV in the context of Bitcoin.
And the standard definition of the term is so broad as to be entirely useless in discussions of protocol risk." — Matt Corallo
As Bitcoin's functionality expands, concerns arise about the potential sacrifice of its core value of censorship resistance.
A concept originating from the Ethereum community, Miner Extractable Value (MEV), refers to the profit miners can make by manipulating transaction order or inclusion in a block.
While some argue that MEV is a natural outcome of competitive mining, others believe it threatens the network's decentralization.
To address this issue, some suggest redefining MEV to differentiate between unavoidable forms and the more insidious "MEVil" that endangers decentralization.
Article: Stop Calling It MEV
https://bluematt.bitcoin.ninja/2024/04/16/stop-calling-it-mev/

2024-09-23 13:28:51 UTC

"I’m not asking you to fight the Beast of Big Politics, Big Tech and Big Media.
Honestly I don’t know how you would. This is the end of an age, the _fin de siecle_, the period of time where the Beast is strongest because it is everywhere and invisible all at once.
Big Politics, Big Tech and Big Media _are_ the water in which we swim. We are totally immersed in the common knowledge that the enemy is the Other Party, and until that common knowledge is weakened substantially, any direct challenge to the Beast is a suicide mission.
A noble suicide mission, like charging a fascist machine gun nest in the Spanish Civil War, but a suicide mission all the same." — Ben Hunt
Check out this fantastic article! It'll make you think about something we all know. It'll make you be truthful and see how we got caught in a risky cycle. We don't want to go there, but we have to.
Article and other links at: This is the Great Ravine - https://www.epsilontheory.com/this-is-the-great-ravine/

2024-09-17 14:32:01 UTC

The Fed will lower rates today or tomorrow making fiat currency less expensive, so more people can get into higher debt basically devaluing the $USD more and passing this debt to the unborn generations.
Only way to protect against this is Bitcoin (digital gold)
Sadly the cure for the patient is bad tasty medicine and scary painful procedures.
Most plebs do not want the pain so choose not to take the medicine and not to do the painful procedure. But decide for comfort and sedation of any pain.

2024-09-12 14:30:31 UTC

Kraken no longer supports Lightning withdrawals for German clients
https://support.kraken.com/hc/en-us/articles/supported-address-formats-for-cryptocurrency-withdrawal-for-german-clients
Be ready for the actions that central banks may take under uncertain economic conditions, as they wield their authority in the name of “protecting users,” but are actually limiting individuals' self-sovereignty and autonomy.

2024-09-12 14:06:54 UTC

The NEXT Bitcoin President Exposes Her Bitcoin Plan!
https://youtu.be/4_sQ9rNf8U8?feature=shared
For Suriname.

2024-09-09 15:29:13 UTC

"Lightning achieved a many-to-one mapping of transactions to transactions... But creating even a single UTXO per user is, arguably, not good enough. So there are many proposals out there to achieve even greater scaling by allowing multiple users to share a single UTXO in a self-sovereign way. Again, collapsing another “space” dimension of scaling users into one UTXO."
— Peter Todd
"An argument for doing a consensus cleanup soft-fork first, prior to enabling any new opcodes or other features for new types of L2’s, is that we’d learn more about how willing the wider community is to implement what should be a relatively uncontroversial soft-fork that arguably benefits everyone."
— Peter Todd
Peter Todd has conducted a comprehensive analysis of various Layer 2 covenant proposals and their associated soft forks to evaluate the core concepts, costs, and benefits of each. As Bitcoin moves towards genuine "L2's" for scaling purposes, what are the potential trade-offs and possibilities for its future?
Continuing this thorough analysis, Peter Todd examines Bitcoin's Layer 2 solutions, including soft fork and covenant proposals such as CTV, OP_CAT, and SIGHASH_ANYPREVOUT. What are the trade-offs between these scaling options? How might they affect Bitcoin's future, and which path offers the best balance of innovation and security?
Soft-Fork/Covenant Dependent Layer 2 Review
https://petertodd.org/2024/covenant-dependent-layer-2-review

2024-09-06 16:41:13 UTC

Reports: North Korean hackers aggressively targeting crypto industry
North Korean hackers exploited Chrome zero-day to steal crypto
https://techcrunch.com/2024/08/30/north-korean-hackers-exploited-chrome-zero-day-to-steal-crypto/
The cybersecurity arms race is akin to a game of whack-a-mole, with hackers constantly probing and exploiting vulnerabilities while security teams scramble to patch them.
The only way to prevail in this relentless struggle is by eliminating single points of failure, diversifying and decentralizing critical components
By doing this, if one aspect falls prey to attackers, the overall system remains secure and assets remain safe from theft or unauthorized access.
This strategic approach offers a crucial advantage in the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.

2024-09-02 20:33:44 UTC

New: Secure your bitcoin with a YubiKey
https://blog.casa.io/secure-your-bitcoin-with-yubikey/
Yubikeys now accommodate seed phrase storage, a hardware update that spawns novel use cases. Casa pioneered this application, permitting clients to save seed phrases on the Yubikey as part of a multisig vault's security structure. Future entities may well leverage this functionality as well.

2024-08-30 19:40:00 UTC

‘Cthulhu’ malware targets Macs, crypto wallets
From the Depths: Analyzing the Cthulhu Stealer Malware for macOS
https://www.cadosecurity.com/blog/from-the-depths-analyzing-the-cthulhu-stealer-malware-for-macos
Exercise caution when downloading software. On MacOS, stick to either the Apple App Store or official websites of developers. Even powerful devices deserve your attention and care.

2024-08-30 18:16:20 UTC

Alert: Be Vigilant Against Phishing Attempts This Autumn
https://x.com/Nneuman/status/1828794529753006449
Casa's Co-founder and CEO Nick Neuman published a detailed analysis on X, featuring one revealing email, which exposed the advanced tactics employed by scammers and provided guidance on how to spot these scams beneath the surface.

2024-08-29 19:36:43 UTC

"It’s been amazingly freeing because I don’t worry about my investments, mostly because I don’t have very many. I’m on a Bitcoin standard and I keep my value in my unit of account." — Jimmy Song
BTC Investing vs. BTC Standard
https://jimmysong.medium.com/btc-investing-vs-btc-standard-31281b4c0dc2
In this piece, Bitcoin developer Jimmy Song explains the distinction between investing in Bitcoin and adopting a Bitcoin standard.
He argues that transitioning your unit of account to Bitcoin alters how you view money, investment, and economic value.
Furthermore, he proposes that under a Bitcoin standard, we're liberated from the constraints imposed by arbitrary investments and the relentless pursuit of inflation prevention amidst a sea of rent-seeking individuals.

2024-08-28 20:05:53 UTC

Signal Is More Than Encrypted Messaging. Under Meredith Whittaker, It’s Out to Prove Surveillance Capitalism Wrong
On its 10th anniversary, Signal’s president wants to remind you that the world’s most secure communications platform is a nonprofit. It’s free. It doesn’t track you or serve you ads.
It pays its engineers very well. And it’s a go-to app for hundreds of millions of people.
https://www.wired.com/story/meredith-whittaker-signal/

2024-08-26 13:02:46 UTC

This article highlights the recent discovery of a large data breach involving WhatsApp users' phone numbers and user IDs being sold on the dark web.
The article advises users to remain vigilant about their online security, emphasizing that it is more effective to prevent potential cybersecurity issues rather than attempting to fix them afterwards.
WhatsApp info's hit the dark web market. Stay sharp online - it's always easier to dodge cyber trouble than fix it later
https://safeonweb.be/en/news/whatsapp-infos-hit-dark-web-market-stay-sharp-online-its-always-easier-dodge-cyber-trouble-fix

2024-08-25 13:10:53 UTC

"The end result was a historical wealth transfer from regular Americans to a handful of billionaires.
This wealth transfer, which was heavily premeditated and provably used the COVID-19 crisis as cover, should be treated as an unprecedented theft from the American taxpayer.
Yet few Americans know that it even happened." -- Unlimited Hangout
The idea that Bitcoin might inadvertently strengthen the US dollar rather than challenging it seems counterintuitive, yet it's an interesting perspective.
If the government accepts and supports stablecoins, it could maintain its control over global debt markets while also benefiting from their stability and potential to facilitate more transactions.
This scenario suggests that the establishment sees these digital assets as a tool for furthering their power rather than undermining it.
Mark Goodwin and Whitney Webb's article "Trump Embraces the Bitcoin-Dollar" sheds light on this topic, providing valuable insights into the political implications of stablecoins and the potential consequences for the financial system.
The article delves into the possibility that the embrace of Bitcoin and stablecoins by the US government could be a strategic move to maintain their grip on global debt markets and expand their influence for future generations.
It's essential to consider these scenarios as we navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of cryptocurrencies and digital assets, keeping in mind the potential consequences for both individual investors and the global financial system.
Article:
Trump Embraces the “Bitcoin-Dollar”, Stablecoins to Entrench US Financial Hegemony
Trump’s recent speech on bitcoin and crypto embraced policies that will seek to mold bitcoin into an enabler of irresponsible fiscal policy and will employ programmable, surveillable stablecoins to expand and entrench dollar dominance.
https://unlimitedhangout.com/2024/07/investigative-reports/trump-embraces-the-bitcoin-dollar-stablecoins-to-entrench-us-financial-hegemony/

2024-08-24 12:31:47 UTC

Proton, a secure email service provider, emphasizes the importance of CJIS compliance in ensuring the protection of Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) data.
CJIS compliance requires adherence to stringent security standards and protocols to safeguard sensitive information exchanged between government agencies and law enforcement authorities.
Proton's approach to CJIS compliance involves implementing advanced encryption methods, secure servers, multi-factor authentication, and strict access controls to guarantee the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of user data.
By adhering to these measures, Proton ensures that its users' data is protected in accordance with CJIS standards and regulations.
CJIS compliance and how Proton secures your data
https://proton.me/blog/cjis-compliance

2024-08-23 13:18:27 UTC

Hackers steal banking creds from iOS, Android users via PWA apps
https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/hackers-steal-banking-creds-from-ios-android-users-via-pwa-apps/
Hackers are exploiting progressive web apps (PWAs) to steal banking credentials from iOS and Android users.
The attackers create fake PWA-based login pages that resemble popular banking applications, tricking victims into entering their login details. Once the hackers obtain these credentials, they use them to access the victims' accounts and steal funds.
Users should be aware of this threat and exercise caution when accessing sensitive financial information through web apps.
In addition, users should verify the legitimacy of any PWA before logging in, as even PWAs can be duplicated and redirected by malicious actors, just like websites.
To stay safe, remain vigilant when interacting with web-based applications that handle your personal or financial data.

2024-08-21 20:54:45 UTC

"The Fed, knowingly or not, is basically in charge of the global financial system.
They may shout, “We raise rates in the US to fight inflation, global consequences be damned!!” – But that’s a hell of a lot more difficult to follow when large G7 countries are in the early stages of a full blown currency crisis.
The most serious implication is that the Fed is responsible for supplying dollars to everyone. When they raise rates, they trigger a margin call on the entire world." — Peruvian Bull
When Japan's third-largest economy encounters the impossible trilemma, what repercussions ensue?
With central banks embarking on a perilous monetary policy course, are we witnessing the beginning of a global economic domino effect leading to catastrophic collapse?
This article dives into The Dollar Endgame's insightful analysis of the Japanese market's recent nosedive, and how this precarious situation forces an agonizing choice:
- Face a disastrous currency implosion
or
- Succumb to an all-encompassing economic collapse.
Article link
Godzilla Returns
Are the Japanese finally choosing to save the currency at the cost of everything else?
https://dollarendgame.substack.com/p/godzilla-returns

2024-08-19 14:15:45 UTC

THIS VIDEO WILL CHANGE EVERYTHING YOU THINK YOU KNOW ABOUT MONEY, INFLATION AND BITCOIN.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jk_HWmmwiAs

2024-08-17 12:42:27 UTC

"In fact, this is the key feature that re-energized me toward Nostr a second time after my initial experience with it.
Bitcoin and Nostr combined together work like an international decentralized open-source Venmo.
It’s a method of payment combined with payment discovery." — Lyn Alden
What impact could Nostr's decentralized, open-source protocol have on reshaping digital identities and online interactions, and what obstacles must it overcome to achieve mainstream adoption and lasting sustainability?
Article: The Power of Nostr: Decentralized Social Media and More by Lyn Alden.
https://www.lynalden.com/the-power-of-nostr/

2024-08-16 23:14:50 UTC

NSA Asked Linus Torvalds To Install Backdoors Into GNU/Linux
https://falkvinge.net/2013/11/17/nsa-asked-linus-torvalds-to-install-backdoors-into-gnulinux/
Linus Torvalds' response to the NSA remains unknown, but it's likely he pointed out that intentionally compromising Linux would be impossible due to its open-source nature, with all code changes being thoroughly reviewed by a multitude of independent contributors.
This illustrates the strength of a sovereign individual empowered by transparency.

2024-08-16 22:54:18 UTC

"It would be wrong to think of Cypherpunks as a formal group. It's more a gathering of those who share a predilection for codes, a passion for privacy, and the gumption to do something about it.
Anyone who decides to spread personal crypto or its gospel is a traveler in the territory of Cypherpunk." — Steven Levy
Lets step into 1993 and revisit the influential article that ignited the cypherpunk movement, sparking a war for control of digital privacy.
Three decades on, have the warnings of the past become today's reality? What's changed, and what's still at stake? We're diving into the origins of the crypto revolution to explore its impact on our future, and the question remains:
Have we made any real progress towards the cypherpunks' dream of a digital world where our freedom and privacy are truly our own?
Article: Crypto Rebels
https://www.wired.com/1993/02/crypto-rebels/

2024-08-09 14:37:54 UTC

"Lightning has already achieved a critical mass. It’s already obvious how a Cashu subnetwork and Fedimint subnetworks will communicate with each other: Lightning.
That’s how they were designed, so switching the common language between networks would require rebuilding most of their parts.
Like English, whatever language subnetworks use internally, Lightning is the language they use to speak to each other, and it’s already locked in." --Roy Sheinfeld
The Lightning Network (LN) is gradually becoming the shared protocol for the Bitcoin ecosystem's subnets and payment technologies.
Will this standardization expedite innovation and adoption within the Bitcoin network? Moreover, what does this imply regarding the future of Bitcoin infrastructure and its rivalry with conventional financial systems?
Here is the link to the article:
Lightning Is the Common Language of the Bitcoin Economy
https://medium.com/breez-technology/lightning-is-the-common-language-of-the-bitcoin-economy-eb8515341c11

2024-08-08 15:39:48 UTC

DocStr
https://docstr.app
This project aims to create a decentralized alternative to Google Docs, utilizing Nostr and Lightning networks.
Currently, all documents are publicly accessible for collaboration, resembling an open-source Wikipedia with Lightning integration.
However, future plans involve introducing privacy options. The goal is to foster a diverse ecosystem of decentralized alternatives to dominant tech services.

2024-08-07 15:04:26 UTC

Know your wallet like you built it.
Not everyone is a developer. Not everyone has to be.
WalletScrutiny helps everyday bitcoin users verify whether or not their wallet is truly open-source and secure. Enter your wallet's name to get started.
https://walletscrutiny.com

2024-08-07 14:15:37 UTC

📡DYK: You can sync a full Bitcoin node offline & anonymously using data beamed down from @Blockstream satellites in space via radio signals. 📡
What is a Blockstream Satellite Node:
A Blockstream Satellite Node broadcasts Bitcoin blockchain data via satellite, enhancing the Bitcoin network's accessibility, resilience and privacy.
https://stacker.news/items/638729

2024-08-06 13:36:01 UTC

sats2data
https://sats2data.africa/buy-data
An innovative service enables the purchase of mobile data plans using Lightning payments, revolutionizing travel for individuals on-the-go.
With e-SIM technology eliminating the need for physical SIM cards, this seamless solution alleviates common payment hassles like credit card declines and cash-only transactions.
As the travel industry continues to grow, Lightning's potential to disrupt it further is vast.

2024-08-06 13:23:56 UTC

You probably don't need a hardware wallet
Some counter-arguments against the overly present HW wallets in bitcoin.
https://allesvoorbitcoin.substack.com/p/you-probably-dont-need-a-hardware
Hardware wallets have long been the go-to method for secure Bitcoin storage, with the Trezor leading the way since its introduction in 2014-15.
However, this article raises a valid concern about software and firmware updates that may not be compatible with older hardware.
If these updates are only reliable for a few years at most, it calls into question the longevity of such wallets as a store of value for Bitcoin holders.

2024-07-31 13:42:38 UTC

California’s Department of Motor Vehicles has found a unique way to prevent fraud: simply upload 42 million car titles to the blockchain. The move allows more than 39M Californians to claim and access their vehicles through a mobile app in early 2025, a first for the U.S.

2024-07-30 17:22:15 UTC

To better understand L2 on Bitcoin L1
Second layers and other projects on top of bitcoin
https://braiins.com/blog/second-layers-and-other-projects-on-top-of-bitcoin

2024-07-29 13:01:25 UTC

World grapples with fallout from CrowdStrike outage
CrowdStrike blames bug for letting bad data slip through, leading to global tech outage
https://apnews.com/article/crowdstrike-tech-outage-microsoft-windows-falcon-4bc4b6817614c274daeabf0e2c52477a
One company's significant impact on the internet stems from a lack of trust in the underlying technology.
Computers, despite appearing to be individual devices, often rely on numerous third-party plug-ins and dependencies, which can contribute to widespread disruptions like the recent global outages.
This is why Bitcoin node software does not automatically update; doing so would introduce systemic risks that could compromise the entire network's stability.

2024-07-25 19:56:04 UTC

RFK Jr. Says He'd Make the Government Buy $615 Billion in Bitcoin
If elected, Kennedy says he wants the United States’ Bitcoin reserves to match its gold reserves.
https://decrypt.co/241670/rfk-government-buy-615-billion-in-bitcoin

2024-07-24 15:20:47 UTC

BITCOIN IS CASH FOR THE INTERNET
Bitcoin is more than a payment system like Paypal, it is digital cash, a system you cannot be shut out of when you need it most.
https://bitcoinmagazine.com/culture/bitcoin-is-cash-for-the-internet

2024-07-22 17:16:41 UTC

Bitcoin Design - Daily Wallet
https://bitcoin.design/guide/daily-spending-wallet/
The Bitcoin Design Guide offers a valuable reference implementation for daily Bitcoin wallets, emphasizing user-friendliness, a lightning-first approach, and minimal Bitcoin jargon.
This guide provides a comprehensive blueprint for creating easy-to-use wallets that cater to the needs of everyday users, and its high level of detail suggests a strong commitment to improving the overall Bitcoin user experience.
The hope is that more products will adopt these UX principles and contribute to a more accessible and user-friendly cryptocurrency ecosystem.

2024-07-22 17:00:13 UTC

Stratum.work
https://stratum.work
This website introduces a visualization tool that provides insight into the mining activities of various mining pools.
By examining headers, first non-coinbase transactions, and other statistics, users can understand the specific blocks each pool is targeting and compare them to the blocks shared with their pool members.
This unique perspective offers valuable information for monitoring and analyzing the mining behavior of different pools in the cryptocurrency ecosystem.

2024-07-22 15:54:24 UTC

Domains hijacked for multiple crypto project websites
Researchers: Weak Security Defaults Enabled Squarespace Domains Hijacks
https://krebsonsecurity.com/2024/07/researchers-weak-security-defaults-enabled-squarespace-domains-hijacks/
Domain hijacking, a cybersecurity threat where malicious actors take control of legitimate domain names, can have significant implications for internet users, particularly through potential phishing attacks.
In such cases, the attackers use the hijacked domain to obtain login credentials by creating a fraudulent version of a trusted website.
The urgency to act upon receiving unsolicited communications, often sent via email, increases the likelihood of falling victim to these attacks.
Users must exercise caution and remain vigilant when receiving emails, even from reputable sources, to protect their personal information and prevent unauthorized access to their accounts.

2024-07-22 13:55:42 UTC

Leaked Cellebrite Tool Docs Reveal List of Phones That Can Be Unlocked
https://cybersecuritynews.com/phones-cellebrite-tool-can-unlock/
Documents leaked from Cellebrite, a digital forensic solution provider created in Israel, have revealed a list of smartphones that can be unlocked using their tools.
The leaked document, obtained by Cybersecurity News, includes models from various manufacturers such as Apple, Samsung, and Google, as well as devices running on different operating systems.
Cellebrite's tools are widely used by law enforcement agencies and governments worldwide, raising concerns about the potential impact on user privacy and security, especially given Israel's reputation for producing surveillance technology.
The leak highlights the importance of addressing the security and privacy implications of these technologies and ensuring that user data is protected from unauthorized access, particularly when used by governments with a history of surveillance.

2024-07-22 13:31:43 UTC

BREEZ LIGHTNING SDK INTEGRATING SUPPORT FOR LIQUID NETWORK
A new option for using Bitcoin is coming to the Breez SDK.
https://bitcoinmagazine.com/technical/breez-lightning-sdk-integrating-support-for-liquid-network
The Breez Lightning SDK, a popular open-source platform for integrating the Lightning Network into Bitcoin applications, is set to introduce support for the Liquid Network.
This development, as reported by Bitcoin Magazine, will provide users with an alternative Bitcoin option through the Breez SDK.
The Liquid Network, a federated sidechain built on Bitcoin's blockchain, enables faster and more confidential transactions.
The integration aims to enhance the functionality and flexibility of the Breez SDK, catering to the diverse needs of developers and users within the cryptocurrency ecosystem.

2024-07-19 12:39:19 UTC

Global cyber outage. Cybersecurity platform CrowdStrike is "down" worldwide, causing global IT problems, Microsoft crashes, 911 outages across several US states, and disruptions in international airlines, banks and media outlets.
So you are sill using Microsoft Windows?

2024-07-17 13:21:40 UTC

"We shouldn’t count on hearing the truth about the attempted assassination from the mainstream media. No wonder the elites remain determined to censor social media sites like Twitter/X and TikTok. We live in an empire of lies, propped up by the mainstream media. And seeking the truth in this empire of lies is the greatest challenge for us in the moral bankruptcy in which we live."
Why We’ll Never Know What Really Happened in Butler, PA
by Ron Paul
https://ronpaulinstitute.org/why-well-never-know-what-really-happened-in-butler-pa/

2024-07-16 13:50:45 UTC

High bandwidth Tor network. Incentivized by the Bitcoin Lightning Network.
More decentralized. More Secure. Relays earn sats. Powered by Bolt12 offers.
https://devpost.com/software/el-tor?ref_content=my-projects-tab&ref_feature=my_projects
The inspiration behind building El Tor was to create a high bandwidth Tor network incentivized by the Bitcoin lightning network. We need a more private internet and a fast way for our Lightning nodes to communicate with each other. We also need to “Make Hidden Services Great Again”.

2024-07-16 13:27:39 UTC

The Petrodollar will become the #Bitcoindollar.
You have been warned.

2024-07-14 13:05:40 UTC

Wake-up, read or listen.
“Much like the World Economic Forum’s Young Global Leaders program has facilitated the placement of its trained, ideological allies in positions of top political power around the world, groups like Endeavor and their equivalents help ensure that similarly controlled business leaders dominate the private sector and become the public face of emerging market monopolies that are, ultimately, part of a broader network.” -- Mark Goodwin & Whitney Webb
The article discusses a network of powerful governments and billionaires potentially influencing emerging markets globally through public-private partnerships, impacting policies and governance in developing countries.
It highlights connections between tech giants, philanthropists, intelligence agencies, and other institutions vying for control over these markets and political systems, as well as their involvement in the Bitcoin world.
The article is an insightful investigation by Mark Goodwin and Whitney Webb that should not be missed.
The Chain of Custody: The “Mafia” Holding The Elite's Bitcoin
https://unlimitedhangout.com/2024/07/investigative-reports/the-chain-of-custody-the-mafia-holding-the-elites-bitcoin/
The companies poised to dominate the digital financial infrastructure of Latin America have arisen courtesy of the self-described “mafia” multiplier, Endeavor.
Flush with funds from billionaires linked to the US intelligence and organized crime, Endeavor’s influence over the CEOs it has championed promises that, with the ushering in of a new financial system, a wave of covert dollarization will shortly follow.

2024-07-13 13:01:02 UTC

Money in, Data out
The freest market of data-processing AIs in the world
What are Data Vending Machines?
Data Vending Machines are data-processing tools. You give them some data, a few sats, and they give you back some data.
https://vendata.io

2024-07-12 14:54:35 UTC

- reply

it's great to see productivity tools emerge that keep the power in your hands.

2024-07-12 14:48:22 UTC

Proton launches Docs for private collaborative document editing
Introducing Docs in Proton Drive – collaborative document editing that’s actually private
https://proton.me/blog/docs-proton-drive
The increasing use of personal data for surveillance and AI training is concerning.
It's refreshing, therefore, to see productivity tools like Venice.ai that prioritize user privacy and empower individuals with control over their data.

2024-07-09 17:43:51 UTC

Hackers accessed cell phone numbers of 2FA app Authy users
Twilio says hackers identified cell phone numbers of two-factor app Authy users
https://techcrunch.com/2024/07/03/twilio-says-hackers-identified-cell-phone-numbers-of-two-factor-app-authy-users/?utm_source=hs_email&guccounter=2
A phone number in the hands of a hacker poses significant security risks. Hackers can exploit this information through social engineering tactics or by colluding with unethical carrier employees to execute a SIM swap attack. This allows them to hijack your phone number, potentially bypassing two-factor authentication (2FA) systems that rely on text messages. Such breaches can lead to unauthorized access to various accounts and sensitive information. To mitigate these risks, it's advisable to take proactive measures to secure your phone number. One recommended approach is to use a secure provider like Efani or Cloaked Wireless, which offer enhanced protection against SIM swapping and other phone-based security threats.

2024-07-09 17:08:16 UTC

"Submarine Swaps employ hash time-locked contracts (HTLCs), which in layperson’s terms, enable two transactions (both sides of the swap) to happen simultaneously by linking them together cryptographically inside of a smart contract. Using this technology, there is no way for one exchange to occur without the other occurring at the same moment.
This is the most trustless solution that exists for moving sats between Bitcoin layers."-- Frank Corva
Trustless bridges play a crucial role in connecting Bitcoin's various layers, with Boltz emerging as a key player in this space. As a non-custodial exchange service, Boltz is transforming the way Bitcoin moves between the base chain, Lightning Network, and Liquid. The service utilizes atomic swaps and submarine swaps to facilitate efficient and seamless cross-layer transfers, eliminating the need for intermediaries. These innovations are significant for the future of Bitcoin's layered ecosystem, potentially enhancing interoperability, liquidity, and overall functionality across different Bitcoin layers. The implications of these advancements could lead to a more integrated and versatile Bitcoin network, improving user experience and expanding the cryptocurrency's utility in various applications.
Here is the original article:
BETWEEN BITCOIN LAYERS: BOLTZ BUILDS TRUSTLESS TRANSFERS
Boltz co-founder and CEO Kilian and his team have created an easy-to-use, non-custodial solution for moving bitcoin between the base chain, Lightning and Liquid.
https://bitcoinmagazine.com/business/between-bitcoin-layers-boltz-builds-trustless-transfers

2024-07-09 16:44:56 UTC

"Whatever your setup is for storing the majority of your bitcoin - be it hot or cold, online or offline, software or hardware - if you can access and spend it in a matter of minutes, so can a robber armed with a $5 wrench.
The price for convenience is risk. This is not merely a theoretical scenario; I have cataloged over 50 physical attacks against bitcoin users, including myself!" -- Jameson Lopp
Bitcoin holders face a unique security challenge: protecting their assets from physical threats, including the infamous "$5 wrench attack."
This comprehensive guide, inspired by Jameson Lopp's work, outlines practical strategies for safeguarding cryptocurrencies against coercion and theft.
The article emphasizes the importance of privacy, multi-signature setups, and geographic distribution of keys as foundational elements of a robust security plan.
It explores various tactics, from basic precautions like maintaining a low profile to more advanced measures such as creating decoy wallets and implementing duress passwords.
The guide also delves into the concept of "plausible deniability" and discusses the potential benefits of holding cryptocurrencies through corporate structures.
By adopting a multi-layered approach to security, Bitcoin owners can significantly reduce their vulnerability to physical attacks and ensure the long-term safety of their digital assets.
Here is the original article:
How to protect your bitcoin from $5 wrench attacks
https://blog.casa.io/how-to-protect-your-bitcoin-from-5-wrench-attacks/

2024-07-06 12:13:04 UTC

THE FEDERAL RESERVE, CUSTODIA BANK, AND THE BATTLE FOR SOVEREIGNTY
A Review of the Amicus Briefs in the Custodia Case.
https://bitcoinmagazine.com/legal/the-federal-reserve-custodia-bank-and-the-battle-for-constitutional-sovereignty
The legal battle between Custodia Bank and the Federal Reserve has drawn significant attention, with various amicus briefs filed in support of Custodia's appeal.
These briefs present a range of arguments against the Federal Reserve's actions, encompassing constitutional concerns, statutory interpretation issues, and potential impacts on financial innovation.
The overarching argument contends that an unchecked and unaccountable Federal Reserve system lacks constitutional support and could be detrimental to the nation's interests.
As this case progresses, the arguments outlined in these briefs are expected to have a substantial influence on the future landscape of financial regulation and state sovereignty within the United States.
The outcome of this legal dispute could set important precedents for the balance of power between federal financial institutions and state-chartered banks.

2024-07-03 13:50:27 UTC

The Lightning Network has the potential to be the catalyst for Bitcoin's mass adoption and financial innovation.
The ambitious plans of the Lightning Alliance, coupled with the revolutionary potential of Taproot assets, are set to transform the Bitcoin ecosystem.
Interoperability with lightning as the universal language of Bitcoin, along with cutting-edge protocols, are paving the way for a new era in decentralized finance. These exciting new tools are ushering in a bold future for the cryptocurrency landscape.
"Joltz is one company that is actively building the necessary infrastructure to support this interoperability. By developing an SDK that allows wallets to integrate with swap providers easily, Joltz aims to streamline the process of connecting various sidechains with the Lightning Network.
Highlighting the efficiency gains from using Lightning as a central hub." --Bitcoin Magazine
Here is the original Article: "Bitcoin Lightning Alliance to Accelerate Adoption Using New Asset Protocol"
https://bitcoinmagazine.com/technical/bitcoin-lightning-alliance-to-accelerate-adoption-using-new-asset-protocol

2024-07-03 12:50:06 UTC

Peer-to-Peer Systems
Within a decade, P2P has proven to be a technology that enables innovative new services and is used by millions of people every day.
https://cacm.acm.org/research/peer-to-peer-systems/#R9
In October 2010, an article was published in the Communications of the ACM, revisiting the topic of Peer-to-Peer (P2P) systems and their revolutionary impact on the digital landscape.
The article noted that within just over a decade since their inception, P2P systems had become a ubiquitous technology, enabling millions of people to share resources and communicate directly without the need for a centralized authority.
These systems had given rise to innovative new services and had transformed the way people interacted with digital content.
The article predicted that P2P would continue to evolve and play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of the internet and its applications.

2024-07-01 13:57:48 UTC

Why going cashless has turned Sweden from one of the safest countries into a high-crime nation
https://fortune.com/europe/2024/06/21/why-going-cashless-has-turned-sweden-from-one-of-the-safest-countries-into-a-high-crime-nation/
Going cashless in Sweden has led to a spike in crime, particularly in the form of theft and fraud, due to the reliance on digital transactions that can be easily hacked or manipulated.
The elderly and vulnerable populations have also suffered, feeling isolated and vulnerable without physical cash.
The push for a cashless society has been driven by a few large corporations, financial institutions and governments, raising concerns about monopolization and erosion of privacy rights.
Furthermore, the lack of physical cash has enabled increased government surveillance and control over financial transactions, raising fears of potential misuse.
Ultimately, the unintended consequences of going cashless have been significant and far-reaching, and the push for a cashless society must be reevaluated to ensure that the potential benefits are outweighed by the potential risks and negative impacts.

2024-07-01 13:45:38 UTC

Microsoft removes documentation for switching to a local account in Windows 11
But most Microsoft account sign-in workarounds for Windows 11 continue to work.
https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2024/06/microsoft-removes-documentation-for-switching-to-a-local-account-in-windows-11/
Microsoft's decision to remove the option to switch to a local account in Windows 11 could be seen as a move towards encouraging users to adopt their ecosystem and services.
By requiring a Microsoft account for installation, they are essentially forcing users to be part of their online world, just like AOL did in the past.
This move might be a way to generate more data and create a seamless experience for users, integrating them into Microsoft's services and products more deeply.
It's a strategic business decision, but it could also be seen as a restriction of user freedom, privacy, and choice.
You are still using Windows?

2024-07-01 13:25:18 UTC

Louisiana Passes Bill To Defend Bitcoin Rights And Ban CBDCs
https://decentrasuze.substack.com/p/louisiana-passes-bill-to-defend-bitcoin

2024-06-27 15:19:13 UTC

"China’s current ways to censor the Internet are to block connections from IP servers serving content and block protocol-level attempts, such as Tor, at specific points.
China is also incredibly aggressive in requesting Apple to do app store takedowns, which Apple regularly complies with.
In 2022, for example, China was responsible for more than 97% of apps taken down by Apple for different countries. [...] Finally, within the country, law enforcement has access to physical surveillance and registered IDs of everybody in China who has purchased a phone,
for example. Still, with all of this, and multiple regulatory notices and attempts to ban Bitcoin, China was not able to dent Bitcoin itself – which is humming along at a much better price level and activity level than the level of bans implemented by China." -- China Bitcoin Book
The resilience of Bitcoin, despite China's strict bans and regulatory crackdowns, is a remarkable phenomenon that has piqued the interest of many experts, including Roger Huang.
Huang's in-depth analysis of Bitcoin's ability to not only survive but thrive in the face of adversity has shed light on the robustness of decentralized technology.
The implications of Bitcoin's defiant stance against China's powerful government are far-reaching, and this analysis provides valuable insights into the future of decentralized systems, which continue to defy the odds.
Link to article "How Bitcoin Thrived Through China's Bans And Became Much Stronger"
https://chinabitcoinbook.com/?p=158

2024-06-27 15:01:07 UTC

Danish Regulator To Ban Unhosted Bitcoin (BTC) Wallets
Many industry stakeholders are preparing for the implementation of MiCA rules with Denmark set to ban unhosted Bitcoin wallets
https://coingape.com/danish-regulator-to-ban-unhosted-bitcoin-btc-wallets/
What could come to Curaçao

2024-06-26 15:48:51 UTC

Choosing The Right Bitcoin Wallet: Payments vs. Savings
Discover the world of Bitcoin wallets and find the one that suits you best.
https://www.blink.sv/blog/choosing-the-right-bitcoin-wallet