...he claims that cryptocurrency "...it is a rare technology that has caused deaths in a fairly direct way"
When someone famous, rich, and popular, and technology friendly says something about cryptocurrency, we should listen right?
YES?
NOT WHEN THEY SAY SOMETHING STUPID.
That includes Bill Gates.
Many news articles Feb 2018 like this one are quoting what Bill Gates said:
Bill Gates says the "main feature of crypto currencies is their anonymity. I don't think this is a good thing"
Let's investigate what else has caused deaths in a fairly direct way..
-- Any, and all fiat currency (see cash)
Bitcoin, and cryptocurrency is not any more dangerous than fiat money (aka CASH).
Bill Gates says "The Governments ability to find money laundering and tax evasion and terrorist funding is a good thing."
People might say "well cash, you actually have to hand it to someone". Do you?
REALLY?
Did you know that 9/11 happened in New York city "BEFORE" Bitcoin was invented?
Al Capone was a massive gangster "BEFORE" Bitcoin was invented
O.J. Simpson allegedly killed Nicole Brown and Ron Goldman "BEFORE" Bitcoin was invented
...and I know it's hard to believe, but HITLER did what he did "BEFORE" Bitcoin was invented.
Anonymity and Bitcoin don't "create" crime. It's always been here. Crime is going to happen every single day, and the tools may change, but the tools are not the problem.
It's time to focus on the real problem (and not trying to focus on tools)
.. A bar of soap can be a weapon (See 1988 article)
...A pair of sweat pants can kill someone too (See 2006 article)
..Bill Gates says cryptocurrency can cause deaths...
...well Microsoft Windows based computers and services are used in the execution of crime all the time. like this
...how many murderers, rapists, serial-killers, or terrorists used a Microsoft product?
Should we ban all Microsoft products since they too "can provide anonymity" ?
What Bill Gates said, is nothing more than a cheap, not well thought out, off-the-cuff remark. Unfortunately it has now gone viral with mainstream media and is being cheerleaded as the newest headline to people all over the world.
That was irresponsible of Bill Gates, who is only 62 years old, and should know better.
What do you think? Do we blame tools that could be used for crime, like soap, sweatpants, or Windows computers?
- ...or do we focus on the criminals themselves?