Bill Gates says crypto-currencies cause deaths

[jemarleon]

I just saw this news, For me its always the choice of an individual in how people will use the technology, many of the technologies can make an easy way to do bad things in life but it is the choice of the people, if they use it in a bad way, they will suffer for their selves.


Crypto-currencies are killing people in a "fairly direct way", Microsoft founder Bill Gates has said.

He was referring to the way digital currencies like Bitcoin are used to buy drugs like synthetic opioid fentanyl.

In an "ask me anything" session on news website Reddit, he said that the anonymity of digital currencies meant they were linked to terrorist funding and money laundering.

Some criticised him, saying he was ill-informed about the technology.

Asked by one user for his opinion on the technology, Mr Gates replied: "The main feature of crypto-currencies is their anonymity. I don't think this is a good thing. The government's ability to find money laundering and tax evasion and terrorist funding is a good thing.

"Right now, crypto-currencies are used for buying fentanyl and other drugs so it is a rare technology that has caused deaths in a fairly direct way. I think the speculative wave around ICOs [initial coin offerings] and crypto-currencies is super risky for those who go long."

heres the link: http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-43239781

[1715159685]

1715159685

[Gyromancer]

But 2 year ago also he said bitcoin is unstopable :/

[bitmover]

Well, thinking this way Dollar is killing much more people.

How many terrorists buy weapons with dollar?
How many drug dealers sell drugs for dollar? I bet they have first traded drugs for dollar, and later decided to trade dollar for bitcoin.

Cash is way more anonymous than bitcoin. Lets stop using cash because it is "killing people"?

Sometimes i think these articles are just fake news, or bill gates has another intentions.

[44_crypto]

Well, thinking this way Dollar is killing much more people.

How many terrorists buy weapons with dollar?
How many drug dealers sell drugs for dollar? I bet they have first traded drugs for dollar, and later decided to trade dollar for bitcoin.

Cash is way more anonymous than bitcoin. Lets stop using cash because it is "killing people"?

Sometimes i think these articles are just fake news, or bill gates has another intentions.

Agree.

[Emin90]

He just expressed my subjective opinion, Yes there is truth in his words is that those people who have lost all their money and even dropped in price and they were shocked!These people were at risk of suicide because of the losses, but in general it's not bitcoin leads to death and the pain of the huge losses!

[JoshMart]

I think the same can be said for real-world money now, wouldn't it? I mean sure, these criminals may have found a new way to peddle their wares (like drugs, weapons, etc) but these illegal activities have been a problem for as long as I can remember. Placing sole responsibility on Crypto Currencies for the proliferation of these bad elements wouldn't really entirely right in my opinion. Technology is advancing at relatively blinding speeds and if these criminals use it for their profiteering acts, I trust that our sworn protectors would also find a way to up their game and catch these bad guys.

[glavos]

In his statement replace Bitcoin with any other FIAT currency and it still will be a true statement. This is invalid comment, coming from him.

[tdrinker]

It's disappointing that one of the great pioneers and minds of our generation takes such a narrow minded approach. It seems as if he 'spoke' without really thinking about what he was saying. USD is equally as bad if not worse and many of these illegal transactions require PCs to transact. Let's not forget that bitcoin was developed in windows...

[nethan1btc]

I just saw this news, For me its always the choice of an individual in how people will use the technology, many of the technologies can make an easy way to do bad things in life but it is the choice of the people, if they use it in a bad way, they will suffer for their selves.


Crypto-currencies are killing people in a "fairly direct way", Microsoft founder Bill Gates has said.

He was referring to the way digital currencies like Bitcoin are used to buy drugs like synthetic opioid fentanyl.

In an "ask me anything" session on news website Reddit, he said that the anonymity of digital currencies meant they were linked to terrorist funding and money laundering.

Some criticised him, saying he was ill-informed about the technology.

Asked by one user for his opinion on the technology, Mr Gates replied: "The main feature of crypto-currencies is their anonymity. I don't think this is a good thing. The government's ability to find money laundering and tax evasion and terrorist funding is a good thing.

"Right now, crypto-currencies are used for buying fentanyl and other drugs so it is a rare technology that has caused deaths in a fairly direct way. I think the speculative wave around ICOs [initial coin offerings] and crypto-currencies is super risky for those who go long."

heres the link: http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-43239781

Yeah, I agree on that it may cause death if those users are not responsible on their health that may cause illness to their health and in thr worst case may result a death. On my opinion, for those users they must have a totally balance on their time which make them comfortable. Also, don't too much emotional since it talks about money here in crypto currency communitu , a users must aware on some possible risk which it unpredictable to happen. Lastly, live life to the fullest in a positive and right way like bonding with your love one because sometimes too much time in crypto we can't even think that time for our family was affected.

[BartS]

It's disappointing that one of the great pioneers and minds of our generation takes such a narrow minded approach. It seems as if he 'spoke' without really thinking about what he was saying. USD is equally as bad if not worse and many of these illegal transactions require PCs to transact. Let's not forget that bitcoin was developed in windows...

The same can be said about almost anything, look at cars the biggest cause of deaths among the young population have to do with driving under the influence of some intoxicant and yet no one wants to ban cars and the reason for that is the benefits we get out of cars outweigh the costs and the same can be said about bitcoin, bitcoin as a tool will cause some damage to society but it will also cause a lot of good and since the good effects are way bigger than the bad effects then bitcoin will keep growing and its adoption will grow as well.

[eagleman]

But 2 year ago also he said bitcoin is unstopable :/

Hmmm this might be the sign that he's going to start putting money to bitcoin?
Most of the well known and popular people are telling this way so that they can have their own purpose and interest for bitcoin and will have a good buying price. I thought I was wrong that I can remember, he said positive thing about bitcoin before.

[Coffee135]

I'm interested in checking bill gates on a lie detector to see if he has any bitcoins. I am sure that the answer will be positive. Most famous people hide their earnings in cryptocurrency. Those famous people who honestly pay taxes admit that they have bitcoins. It's a worldwide epidemic. I think the bankers bribed or forced bill to tell that lie.

[Dragon5]

I wonder why he said that. To prevent people using bitcoin? To destabilize the market? To encourage athorities to introduce regulations as soon as possible?

And everyone knows that bitcoin itself is not evil, people who misuse everything are evil. I would even say that developing and producing of weapons is more evil than selling them. So, it doesn't really matter if crypto is used for illegal things. All the other currencies, science, human beings are also used for illegal purposes

[Rath_]

Honestly, at first I thought that I saw another fake news and decided to ignore it but it quickly turned out that I was wrong. Why did he change his mind so suddenly? Cryptocurrencies are used by criminals, we all know it but blaming them for it is inappropriate. I would say that fiats have higher share when it comes to criminality. I understand the concern about terrorism but governments are abusing these tools. That's why we need cryptocurrency. Money privacy should be as important as correspondence privacy.

[mprepkiah]

I think it depends on us who use it should they be tightened to conduct transactions again, and do not just spread fud because it will cause the price of this turung...

[akamit]

He was referring to the way digital currencies like Bitcoin are used to buy drugs like synthetic opioid fentanyl.

In an "ask me anything" session on news website Reddit, he said that the anonymity of digital currencies meant they were linked to terrorist funding and money laundering.

What he said is 100% true and his concerns are right.
But I would like to ask him, isn't it fiat currency also involve in buying drugs, terrorist funding and money laundering? Does anyone solve this issues yet?
Fiat has been used, still using for these things, ALWAYS USED! And Bitcoin has a history of only 9 years. So why only blame Bitcoin/Cryptocurrency?

Everything in this world has two sides "Good & Bad" and everything depends on the individual which side to pick.

[BountyX]

If Bill Gates is saying that crypto-currencies cause deaths, I'd be very curious to know how many people in the world must have died in the past decades while they were sitting at a computer using Windows. Just out of curiosity...

[WUUEX79]

Bill Gates point of view isn't as great as his work he only sees the downside. Supposedly Bill Gates said wisely and realistically he should be able to compare, How much negative and positive effects the Crypto-currencies brings?...

Hi ... Bill Gates...
Cryptocurrency instead of a knife or a gun, cryptocurrency is just a virtual currency dan impossible can kill people directly.

[jhean_arcane]

Crypto-currencies are killing people in a "fairly direct way", Microsoft founder Bill Gates has said.

He was referring to the way digital currencies like Bitcoin are used to buy drugs like synthetic opioid fentanyl.

In an "ask me anything" session on news website Reddit, he said that the anonymity of digital currencies meant they were linked to terrorist funding and money laundering.

And so is fiat money. Fiat money also had killed much more people in a "faily direct way".

Funny how he described it. My fiat money can be used to buy other dangerous drugs.

Money laundering and and terrorist funding existed even before bitcoin was created by Satoshi.

Asked by one user for his opinion on the technology, Mr Gates replied: "The main feature of crypto-currencies is their anonymity. I don't think this is a good thing. The government's ability to find money laundering and tax evasion and terrorist funding is a good thing.

The anonimity was also used in fiat money. They just needed to change their identities and get money from other means.

[1Referee]

Hmmm this might be the sign that he's going to start putting money to bitcoin?
Most of the well known and popular people are telling this way so that they can have their own purpose and interest for bitcoin and will have a good buying price. I thought I was wrong that I can remember, he said positive thing about bitcoin before.

Yeah, right. Bill Gates with his wealth peaking over $90 billion needs to fud and start investing some of his wealth into Bitcoin to make a few extra millions. It's just his opinion, which to a certain extent has some truth to it, and to a certain extent also not. He has other things to focus on, and for that reason doesn't really care about choosing his words very wisely when it comes to talking about crypto. Also, he is part of the traditional elite who become insanely wealthy within the system that a lot people here (rightfully) seem to dislike. He grew up and developed himself and his empire to what it is today in a system that revolves around multi billion multinationals. You can't blame him for not looking at crypto the way we look at crypto.

[Koadharber]

But 2 year ago also he said bitcoin is unstopable :/

Hmmm this might be the sign that he's going to start putting money to bitcoin?
Most of the well known and popular people are telling this way so that they can have their own purpose and interest for bitcoin and will have a good buying price. I thought I was wrong that I can remember, he said positive thing about bitcoin before.

Either both ways which he might able to enter or just purely give a negative view about bitcoin.Yes,i do remembered that he do praised bitcoin way before and now he do mention about negative things.Im not surprised since this is been part of reality when it comes to bitcoin if its used in negative side.Not only bitcoin so as on local fiat too.This means it entirely depend on the people who do make use of it.

[shield132]

There was a similar thread in bitcoin discussion section (from non bill gates) and now this one. This man has billions so he doesn't cares about anything and poor society, otherwise he would help to people. Why the hell does he wants so much money? To be in the list of billionares?
Also what he says is out of logic. Then we can say that chemistry kills people and let's not learn this subject and not develope medicine. Let's don't accept money, don't accept anything. If they won't be able to convert btc in fiat, then they won't use crypto currency. This is really shame from this person, I thought he was more smart in any subject.

[Hydrogen]

Crypto-currencies are killing people in a "fairly direct way", Microsoft founder Bill Gates has said.

He was referring to the way digital currencies like Bitcoin are used to buy drugs like synthetic opioid fentanyl.

In an "ask me anything" session on news website Reddit, he said that the anonymity of digital currencies meant they were linked to terrorist funding and money laundering.

Asked by one user for his opinion on the technology, Mr Gates replied: "The main feature of crypto-currencies is their anonymity. I don't think this is a good thing. The government's ability to find money laundering and tax evasion and terrorist funding is a good thing.

Last I heard, american and allied soldiers in afghanistan guard taliban opium fields which fuel the opioid and fetanyl drug crisis. I always wondered why soldiers protected the cash cow of terrorist organizations like the taliban. That never made sense to me. It is even stranger when Bill Gates blames crypto currencies for the fetanyl crisis rather than big, greedy, profiteering organizations like big pharmaceuticals (or the taliban) who profit heavily from opioid abuse.

In terms of Bill Gates, the following quotation could be one of the more accurate things published about him.



Link to image: https://i.imgur.com/CaD6sb7.jpg

Bill Gates is supposed to be one of the best tech CEO's of all time. And perhaps he was! Jeff Bezos could easily dethrone Bill Gates as all time best tech CEO though.

[mrcash02]

Microsoft causes deaths because terrorists and drug dealers use the operational system on their computers to execute their shady activities.

Someone please tell him to close his business before more people die!

[shield132]

Microsoft causes deaths because terrorists and drug dealers use the operational system on their computers to execute their shady activities.

Someone please tell him to close his business before more people die!

Just turn here again to see other's opinions. Wanted to say exactly the same. How this man can blame others while everything was done by using his os + let's blame intel, asus, they give us processor/motherboard.... And let's blame electricity, it's the power of every tech + let's blame air, it's what they breath to keep alive and do their shit job. Oh, this man talks like crazy.

[gambitcoin53]

bill gates simply enumerate one of many use of bitcoin, hurray for that, lol. bitcoin's anonymity is not the problem, the real problem lies on the third party who use bitcoin funding for purchasing illegal drugs. that is where regulating bitcoin by a certain government now enters. if bitcoin transactions will be regulated, i think this kind of issue on purchasing drugs and other illegal products should be one of the main reason bitcoin must be regulated and not banning bitcoin itself.

funny thing is, i could hardly imagine how they transact business in buying drugs, "ey, do you want a fetanyl? here's my btc address, and hey dont forget to screenshot your transfer, .lol!

[linapel318]

But 2 year ago also he said bitcoin is unstopable :/

Hmmm this might be the sign that he's going to start putting money to bitcoin?
Most of the well known and popular people are telling this way so that they can have their own purpose and interest for bitcoin and will have a good buying price. I thought I was wrong that I can remember, he said positive thing about bitcoin before.

Agree, LOL.
However, in my opinion I think the anonymity of cryptocurrency is dangerous. Though we can trace all the transaction, we don't know who did the transactions. Honestly, I still can't trust cryptocurrency.
But who knows, maybe I change my mind in the future.

[cafe84178]

I think this is debatable.  Any type of technology is only a tool and it is depended on how people use it.
I like the liquidity and decentralized feature of cryptocurrency.
However, I do think that governments should set a certain amount of regulations on how cryptocurrency works to protect the weak. The details of how to draft them however, still remains unconcluded.

[mrcash02]

Microsoft causes deaths because terrorists and drug dealers use the operational system on their computers to execute their shady activities.

Someone please tell him to close his business before more people die!

Just turn here again to see other's opinions. Wanted to say exactly the same. How this man can blame others while everything was done by using his os + let's blame intel, asus, they give us processor/motherboard.... And let's blame electricity, it's the power of every tech + let's blame air, it's what they breath to keep alive and do their shit job. Oh, this man talks like crazy.

Yes, that is the media's billionaires hypocrisy. If it's something they have control and/or influence over it's good, but if it's something out of their control, it's really bad and harmful, stay away... But I think these days people are smelling that these statements are dishonest easier than some years ago, when the words coming from these big personalities were "rule" towards the masses.

[eagleman]

But 2 year ago also he said bitcoin is unstopable :/

Hmmm this might be the sign that he's going to start putting money to bitcoin?
Most of the well known and popular people are telling this way so that they can have their own purpose and interest for bitcoin and will have a good buying price. I thought I was wrong that I can remember, he said positive thing about bitcoin before.

Agree, LOL.
However, in my opinion I think the anonymity of cryptocurrency is dangerous. Though we can trace all the transaction, we don't know who did the transactions. Honestly, I still can't trust cryptocurrency.
But who knows, maybe I change my mind in the future.

That's why it is anonymous, we can't track on who exactly did the transactions. If you don't trust cryptocurrency, why are you even here?

Microsoft causes deaths because terrorists and drug dealers use the operational system on their computers to execute their shady activities.

Someone please tell him to close his business before more people die!

You nailed him, maybe someone can tell this to him? He's part of the world's innovation and his invention caused a lot of deaths including the intelligence that are being done by these terrorists and crime doers.

[Wilsonong222]

I just saw this news, For me its always the choice of an individual in how people will use the technology, many of the technologies can make an easy way to do bad things in life but it is the choice of the people, if they use it in a bad way, they will suffer for their selves.


Crypto-currencies are killing people in a "fairly direct way", Microsoft founder Bill Gates has said.

He was referring to the way digital currencies like Bitcoin are used to buy drugs like synthetic opioid fentanyl.

In an "ask me anything" session on news website Reddit, he said that the anonymity of digital currencies meant they were linked to terrorist funding and money laundering.

Some criticised him, saying he was ill-informed about the technology.

Asked by one user for his opinion on the technology, Mr Gates replied: "The main feature of crypto-currencies is their anonymity. I don't think this is a good thing. The government's ability to find money laundering and tax evasion and terrorist funding is a good thing.

"Right now, crypto-currencies are used for buying fentanyl and other drugs so it is a rare technology that has caused deaths in a fairly direct way. I think the speculative wave around ICOs [initial coin offerings] and crypto-currencies is super risky for those who go long."

heres the link: http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-43239781

This is the opinion of Mr. Bill Gates and I think we have also liberty to say it is correct/wrong simply because everyone in democratic country has free will to express his opinion. Even I, can say to Bill Gates that he is so naive to say that argument. I'm free to express my view without being persecuted simply because of the freedom of speech.

I think what’s important here is if you believe in Bill Gates comment regarding bitcoin then everyone is free to agree or disagree. In this case cryptocurrency is one of the causes of death. It is the dark side of human that kills and not the crypto.

[tdrinker]

It's disappointing that one of the great pioneers and minds of our generation takes such a narrow minded approach. It seems as if he 'spoke' without really thinking about what he was saying. USD is equally as bad if not worse and many of these illegal transactions require PCs to transact. Let's not forget that bitcoin was developed in windows...

The same can be said about almost anything, look at cars the biggest cause of deaths among the young population have to do with driving under the influence of some intoxicant and yet no one wants to ban cars and the reason for that is the benefits we get out of cars outweigh the costs and the same can be said about bitcoin, bitcoin as a tool will cause some damage to society but it will also cause a lot of good and since the good effects are way bigger than the bad effects then bitcoin will keep growing and its adoption will grow as well.

I am not worried that bitcoin growth will struggle because of this, it's just a shame that it's so often used to attack bitcoin. The difference with cars is that no one ever mentions that they should be banned. The US won't even consider stricter gun controls and that 100% directly contributes to more deaths than bitcoin.

[weav]

I can see where he is coming from , but it isn't making crime more or less . It just makes is easier to stay anonymous , so this is where the focus from the banks will go to stop bitcoin. But with this logic every other currency is the same way.

[gantez]

Microsoft causes deaths because terrorists and drug dealers use the operational system on their computers to execute their shady activities.

Someone please tell him to close his business before more people die!

I think he careless about cryptocurrency. He has made his money already and would not blink an eye on what happens anymore. He need to understand that every business has something negative to talk about it. Even with that, bitcoin has nothing to do with causing death. Every business has element of risk in it.

[burdagol12345]

I just saw this news, For me its always the choice of an individual in how people will use the technology, many of the technologies can make an easy way to do bad things in life but it is the choice of the people, if they use it in a bad way, they will suffer for their selves.


Crypto-currencies are killing people in a "fairly direct way", Microsoft founder Bill Gates has said.

He was referring to the way digital currencies like Bitcoin are used to buy drugs like synthetic opioid fentanyl.

In an "ask me anything" session on news website Reddit, he said that the anonymity of digital currencies meant they were linked to terrorist funding and money laundering.

Some criticised him, saying he was ill-informed about the technology.

Asked by one user for his opinion on the technology, Mr Gates replied: "The main feature of crypto-currencies is their anonymity. I don't think this is a good thing. The government's ability to find money laundering and tax evasion and terrorist funding is a good thing.

"Right now, crypto-currencies are used for buying fentanyl and other drugs so it is a rare technology that has caused deaths in a fairly direct way. I think the speculative wave around ICOs [initial coin offerings] and crypto-currencies is super risky for those who go long."

heres the link: http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-43239781

Will in my own opinion,bill gates is over reacting,how could the cryptocurriencies can caused death when nothing used it for bad,because the mean purpose of people here to join the crypto world is to earn not to destroy the mankind.country and people needs a saviour for the bad growth of economics thats why cryptocurrency is created technology,to help  people especially those who have not a regular jobs to have there own way of living and to support there needs,and not for used it in illegal activities.one things pop up in my mind that bill gates also a member of cryptocurrency so why should he criticize bitcoin?maybe he thinks that bitcoin will become more popular and its will become threats to his microsoft  bussiness.

[Hamphser]

But 2 year ago also he said bitcoin is unstopable :/

Hmmm this might be the sign that he's going to start putting money to bitcoin?
Most of the well known and popular people are telling this way so that they can have their own purpose and interest for bitcoin and will have a good buying price. I thought I was wrong that I can remember, he said positive thing about bitcoin before.

Agree, LOL.
However, in my opinion I think the anonymity of cryptocurrency is dangerous. Though we can trace all the transaction, we don't know who did the transactions. Honestly, I still can't trust cryptocurrency.
But who knows, maybe I change my mind in the future.

That's why it is anonymous, we can't track on who exactly did the transactions. If you don't trust cryptocurrency, why are you even here?

Microsoft causes deaths because terrorists and drug dealers use the operational system on their computers to execute their shady activities.

Someone please tell him to close his business before more people die!

You nailed him, maybe someone can tell this to him? He's part of the world's innovation and his invention caused a lot of deaths including the intelligence that are being done by these terrorists and crime doers.

Hes here nott for the anonymity but for the sake of money making opportunity and I'm 100% sure of that since I'm also one of those people who don't really care at all about anonymity stuffs and benefits.Sounds too rude but this is the reality on most people here into this cryptoworld.Crypto do have its negative side and if people would decide to utilize it then they can really fully extent and benefit since it is capable on doing such stuff.

[darkangel11]

He's the product of the anti drug campaigns started by Reagan. How about we let people decide what they want to poison themselves with and stop being picky.
Bitcoin kills because you can buy drugs that kill. So USD kills because you can anonymously buy weapons that kill, why don't we start a campaign against the USD? It's not the fault of the inanimate object that it's there, just as it's not the fault of the currency if it's being spent on things that some people are against. For instance if I were a fan of Apple and started going around saying that your products suck, Mr Gates, you'd probably think that I'm crazy and wasting my time. It's similar to what you're doing wasting your time trying to tell people what is good or bad for them, while you should let them be. They aren't telling you what you should or should not be buying with your millions.

[CarnagexD]

Well, thinking this way Dollar is killing much more people.

How many terrorists buy weapons with dollar?
How many drug dealers sell drugs for dollar? I bet they have first traded drugs for dollar, and later decided to trade dollar for bitcoin.

Cash is way more anonymous than bitcoin. Lets stop using cash because it is "killing people"?

Sometimes i think these articles are just fake news, or bill gates has another intentions.

That is a good point, Bitcoin and dollar is usually used the same way. We could not hide the fact that  bitcoin is could be used on illegal transaction because it could be used on transaction through the internet in an anonymous way. It is also a thing of fiat where dollar is also be used in illegal things by powerful men, terrorist same concept on bitcoin.

[btctube]

Whatever. The article still promoted crypto I think this is all that matters today. Whatever they say can only make btc and altcoins stronger in the coming years. If they claim its used for terrorist funding or buy drugs and weapons, it doesn't matter after all the regulations of it are coming as well. Let the guy speak his mind.

[xuan87]

I think that is a dumb statement, dollars is also used to buy drugs, Bitcoin is just a medium, it's not the one that causing the death, many people use Bitcoin for doing global transaction, so there are a lot of people used it for positive things, and anonymity sometimes is needed, it may protect us from the hacker's target

[hunterWood]

Didn't he praised or said good things about Bitcoin a while back?

[jeremypwr]

I don't mind articles like these as you have a major player in the game that mentions Bitcoin.  As someone already mentioned, Bill Gates has been known to change his opinions and at one point was a fan of Bitcoin (if my memory serves me correctly). 

[maculeth]

assumptions from some billionaires against crypto make people begin to doubt on bitcoin and altcoin. their claims to crypto seem to be a danger signal to crypto. this is what makes people's interest in crypto start to decline. if this situation continues, bitcoin and altcoin will be difficult to rise.

[krauzzer02]

In an "ask me anything" session on news website Reddit, he said that the anonymity of digital currencies meant they were linked to terrorist funding and money laundering.

That's how KYC is so important, that's why it needs to be implemented in all of the countries who support cryptocurrencies, all local exchanges and wallet services who have features to convert btc into fiat money or any other crypto needs this policy, it is possible to track those criminals with the help of blockchain technology, KYC, internet security experts and investigators rather than the traditional form of payment which is the paper money, just hand the money transaction done, no trails of transactions or names under it.

[eagleman]

snip

Hes here nott for the anonymity but for the sake of money making opportunity and I'm 100% sure of that since I'm also one of those people who don't really care at all about anonymity stuffs and benefits.Sounds too rude but this is the reality on most people here into this cryptoworld.Crypto do have its negative side and if people would decide to utilize it then they can really fully extent and benefit since it is capable on doing such stuff.

He's rich enough and we don't know the real reason why he has mentioned those. In general, there's negativity that others can see even its on a positive path. But the most important thing is when someone give's his opinion about a thing, we must respect it base on his point of view. He addressed the government tracking ability so he's worried about decentralized economy in the future.

[player514]

I just saw this news, For me its always the choice of an individual in how people will use the technology, many of the technologies can make an easy way to do bad things in life but it is the choice of the people, if they use it in a bad way, they will suffer for their selves.


Crypto-currencies are killing people in a "fairly direct way", Microsoft founder Bill Gates has said.

He was referring to the way digital currencies like Bitcoin are used to buy drugs like synthetic opioid fentanyl.

In an "ask me anything" session on news website Reddit, he said that the anonymity of digital currencies meant they were linked to terrorist funding and money laundering.

Some criticised him, saying he was ill-informed about the technology.

Asked by one user for his opinion on the technology, Mr Gates replied: "The main feature of crypto-currencies is their anonymity. I don't think this is a good thing. The government's ability to find money laundering and tax evasion and terrorist funding is a good thing.

"Right now, crypto-currencies are used for buying fentanyl and other drugs so it is a rare technology that has caused deaths in a fairly direct way. I think the speculative wave around ICOs [initial coin offerings] and crypto-currencies is super risky for those who go long."

heres the link: http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-43239781

I don't really think he's wrong in a sense, I just think he's pretty misinformed. If he looks deeper into the use cases of bitcoin, he'll see that it's not a majority of drug deals and terrorist incentives. It's mostly being used on exchanges as just any other form of currency investing, and I don't think there's much wrong with that. Of course, there will always be that other option of ending up with crime being bitcoin-related, but there's not much we can do about that. The only thing I could see being done is to centralize bitcoin, which goes against basically its major idea.

[joebrook]

If Cryptocurrencies are indeed causing any deaths, I am sure that it is those who are so opposed to them that are dying because of inspite of the value going down these few months, Most investors in cryptos are very confident and upbeat about it successes in general.

[darkangel11]

To some people he's still an authority, especially to those 40 year olds, who first touched a computer in the early 90s and it was an MS DOS system. I'm much younger than that and it still was one of the first things I had to use, simply because I was too poor to get a new PC and had to learn on the older, used ones. 
Gates was someone that we all knew at that time. A guy who was a nerd, programming in his garage, and became a millionaire. I liked him.
I think he's just old and confused now and should do some research before these interviews, and such or he'll continue to embarrass himself.

[jeronimosuykens]

assumptions from some billionaires against crypto make people begin to doubt on bitcoin and altcoin. their claims to crypto seem to be a danger signal to crypto. this is what makes people's interest in crypto start to decline. if this situation continues, bitcoin and altcoin will be difficult to rise.

In recent years there have been many billionaires and celebrities who made bitcoin and cryptocurrency but it still has little effect on this market because investors are getting used to bad news so they are no longer worried. fear and loss as before. For the most part, I think the bad news is that the media was launched with the intention of lowering the reputation of the cryptocurrency to buy a certain crypto at a very cheap price. So invest when you really understand the benefits and potential of this market.

[Nick Abimanyu]

I just saw this news, For me its always the choice of an individual in how people will use the technology, many of the technologies can make an easy way to do bad things in life but it is the choice of the people, if they use it in a bad way, they will suffer for their selves.


Crypto-currencies are killing people in a "fairly direct way", Microsoft founder Bill Gates has said.

He was referring to the way digital currencies like Bitcoin are used to buy drugs like synthetic opioid fentanyl.

In an "ask me anything" session on news website Reddit, he said that the anonymity of digital currencies meant they were linked to terrorist funding and money laundering.

Some criticised him, saying he was ill-informed about the technology.

Asked by one user for his opinion on the technology, Mr Gates replied: "The main feature of crypto-currencies is their anonymity. I don't think this is a good thing. The government's ability to find money laundering and tax evasion and terrorist funding is a good thing.

"Right now, crypto-currencies are used for buying fentanyl and other drugs so it is a rare technology that has caused deaths in a fairly direct way. I think the speculative wave around ICOs [initial coin offerings] and crypto-currencies is super risky for those who go long."

heres the link: http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-43239781

Bill Gates is very know, when crypto will increase. Hence he's blocking all of us with his skeptical remarks I'm so sad to hear it "Apparently 'Bill Gates' don't understand the real humanity condition".

[pawel7777]

Yeah, I've seen that BBC article. This "fairly direct" quote of Gates seemed like a brainfart. If cryptos are to blame for people buying drugs with them - then so is Windows os for allowing them to install wallets, use internet etc.

But to be fair, I tried to find this exact quote on reddit and failed (apparently he wrote it during AMA session). It might have been removed, or BBC misquoted it somehow.

[rosepetals]

I just saw this news, For me its always the choice of an individual in how people will use the technology, many of the technologies can make an easy way to do bad things in life but it is the choice of the people, if they use it in a bad way, they will suffer for their selves.


Crypto-currencies are killing people in a "fairly direct way", Microsoft founder Bill Gates has said.

He was referring to the way digital currencies like Bitcoin are used to buy drugs like synthetic opioid fentanyl.

In an "ask me anything" session on news website Reddit, he said that the anonymity of digital currencies meant they were linked to terrorist funding and money laundering.

Some criticised him, saying he was ill-informed about the technology.

Asked by one user for his opinion on the technology, Mr Gates replied: "The main feature of crypto-currencies is their anonymity. I don't think this is a good thing. The government's ability to find money laundering and tax evasion and terrorist funding is a good thing.

"Right now, crypto-currencies are used for buying fentanyl and other drugs so it is a rare technology that has caused deaths in a fairly direct way. I think the speculative wave around ICOs [initial coin offerings] and crypto-currencies is super risky for those who go long."

heres the link: http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-43239781

I think any currency can be used in any illegal activities if that certain person will choose to use it in a wrong way.Cryptocurrency cannot be widely used in an illegal doings because our wallet was created using our gmail account in which it is needed to be verified using the complete information of oneself.All i can say is that crypto currency is more unlikely to fiat in terms of transactions.It can be make as a very easy transactions in buying drugs or etc. So it really depends on the holder if they will do nasty things using diiferent currency.

[kimochidesh]

I don't really agree with this statement that Bitcoin is causing death. In that way, Even Internet is responsible for youth's porn addiction. Emerging tech may have side-effects, but that does not mean that tech. is harmful. It depends on the users, how they use it. Moreover, before BTC it is not like drugs are never sold, FIAT was responsible for people's death and addiction till now.

[Jas18]

I don't really agree with this statement that Bitcoin is causing death. In that way, Even Internet is responsible for youth's porn addiction. Emerging tech may have side-effects, but that does not mean that tech. is harmful. It depends on the users, how they use it. Moreover, before BTC it is not like drugs are never sold, FIAT was responsible for people's death and addiction till now.

Yes your right, i think Bill Gates was just sharing his opinion. But i think if people really wanted to use crypto in a negative way, well its their choice. Even if without crypto if they really want to buy something that would create chaos they will really do it because they really wanted to kill people for some reasons that they are the one who knows it. Therefore, Bill Gates is somehow correct about using crypto in a negative way but most of the people were using it correctly and it helped a lot of people to make their lives easy and comfortable.

[Delivey]

Anything can cause death. Even aging.

[HatakeKakashi]

We different opinion,  thoughts,  perception so that's why ignore only the people who are negative. Because if you are going to trust to other people saying you will be failed because better to failed at your own decision not the other.  Even billgates said that don't be affected because if you are trustung ti cryptocurrency and to your decision to joined this for sure the result will be good.

[kimmy724]

In my opinion , all that involve in wealth , investing and money can really cause death because  of human behavior. When greed steps in , there is always a way to reap violence and carnage. So it not just bitcoin , even gold and other precious metals. All that involves medium of exchange can cause deaths. So let us deal with it.

[ityandsyn]

For this instance I will conclude that He is not unlike to us,sometimes We speak without thinking intelligently, this is a bad news to bitcoin because he is very influential personality and people are listening to him, but the good news is he gave fear to the drug lords to use this cryptocurrency for their transactions.

[cpfreeplz]

Bill Gates is a wishy washy moron who can't figure out with his old feable mind if he likes cryptocurrency or not. It's fascinating to him, but at the same time he doesn't want to get involved because then he would in his mind be dealing with money that's connected to these sketchy businesses. It's not true at all, and if anything 90% of his cash has been in the hands of drug dealers, but anyway whatever. This didn't have any effect on the market so moving on.

[fokinlipat]

Some criticised him, saying he was ill-informed about the technology.

It is sad to see people disrespect int the opinion of a person who became the richest person in the world by making technological innovations. I agree that he is not god and may make mistakes but I am sure that he is very much aware about the risks associated with crypto.

If you follow him on social networking websites, you must have observed that he still likes to read a lot. I would not be surprised to know that his statement is based on what he has read about crypto from credible sources. We should try to take his advice much seriously than any other member here.

[cydrix]

Probably yes. There is a 100 in  million chance CRYPTO currencies causes death's to people! We just don't know it yet it might be inderect or direct cause but it is possible Crypto cause death considering the fact that it can be used for dealing drugs well not the items itself but the untraceable money of it. Crytpo's can be used illegally especially BITCOIN.

[bncbnc]

Probably yes. There is a 100 in  million chance CRYPTO currencies causes death's to people! We just don't know it yet it might be inderect or direct cause but it is possible Crypto cause death considering the fact that it can be used for dealing drugs well not the items itself but the untraceable money of it. Crytpo's can be used illegally especially BITCOIN.

I do not think that crpto can be blame for death of the people. Because cryptos are currencies just lite fiat which is only created to facilitate our life, if  person is using it for illegal activities which can cause his death but we cannot blame him for that. I think that crypto currency is the need of the day and it can only facilitate our life.

[BTC-BTC-BTC]

Everything can cause deaths if not use properly. This kind of argument must come up with gun and alcohol dedate every times. This time is from a billionaire and got so much attention.

[innocent93]

I think this is not a crypto problem then rather a personal choice. The fact that the evolution of some cryptocurrency gives some of us the opportunity to gain money it doesn't mean that you have to buy drugs with it, so the accusations of Bill Gates are unusual for him.

[Good tbc]

Crypto-currencies do not cause death, what causes death in the society are numerous and can not be attributed to Crypto currency alone. Bitcoin as a digital currency, can be earn by any investors after a long term investment, when earned by such individual, what he or she uses the money to do is not enforced by the Crypto currency, just as Bill Gate is not under any authority to direct or enforce him on what to use his money to buy or to invest in. Bitcoin have made many people wealthy and their life style have change for better, with no bad report of what Bill Gate is saying. Bill Gate might have been miss informed,  and looking at it critically, many Hard drugs dealers uses dollar and other similar Currencies , are we to conclude such Currencies causes death?

[qiwoman2]

This is so hypocritical. What about the huge corporations and Corrupt banks and governments that deal in fiat currencies daily, they don't create deaths daily? If someone is so stupid as to buy killer drugs with Bitcoin, then that's his/her really stupid choice lol but there are millions of farmers around the world committing suicide because of nasty corporations like Monsanto patenting seeds and making the lives of farmers unbearable to the point that they are forced and driven to end their lives as they end up in debt just to run their small farms. Oh and what about the drug lords that launder their FIAT all around the banking system and stay untouched and can't be moved? Those drug lords are responsible for thousands of young lives being lost to drugs.  So what Bill Gates says is here is utter BS, sorry for my language lol. If he wants to know Bitcoin has saved my whole family because now we both work from home and can pay our bills and get food, but before we lost our so-called day jobs.

[SaShiRaJaVu]

Crypto-currencies are killing people in a "fairly direct way", Microsoft founder Bill Gates has said.
He was referring to the way digital currencies like Bitcoin are used to buy drugs like synthetic opioid fentanyl.
In an "ask me anything" session on news website Reddit, he said that the anonymity of digital currencies meant they were linked to terrorist funding and money laundering.
Some criticised him, saying he was ill-informed about the technology.

The news looks like ,bitcoin is the only way to purchase these drugs and fund terrorism ,it is just a plot to undermine the real use of technology,i am not sure Gates would make these claims as he was really positive with one of his earlier interviews a few years back,there might be people dealing illegal things with it but fiat money is used most of the time if you are going to blame a currency.

[Hell-raiser]

Asked by one user for his opinion on the technology, Mr Gates replied: "The main feature of crypto-currencies is their anonymity. I don't think this is a good thing. The government's ability to find money laundering and tax evasion and terrorist funding is a good thing.

"Right now, crypto-currencies are used for buying fentanyl and other drugs so it is a rare technology that has caused deaths in a fairly direct way. I think the speculative wave around ICOs [initial coin offerings] and crypto-currencies is super risky for those who go long."

heres the link: http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-43239781

Bill Gates is a distinguished hypocrite, so what could we really expect of him? Microsoft itself accepts Bitcoin at their site, and he either doesn't know or money does not stink. And my take is it's the second. On the other hand, what else could he say? He is a public figure, more or less, so he should be particularly careful about what he says and still more so about what he doesn't say. Obviously, he wouldn't want to sound like he is antigovermental.

[Klausi]

Asked by one user for his opinion on the technology, Mr Gates replied: "The main feature of crypto-currencies is their anonymity. I don't think this is a good thing. The government's ability to find money laundering and tax evasion and terrorist funding is a good thing.

"Right now, crypto-currencies are used for buying fentanyl and other drugs so it is a rare technology that has caused deaths in a fairly direct way. I think the speculative wave around ICOs [initial coin offerings] and crypto-currencies is super risky for those who go long."

heres the link: http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-43239781

Bill Gates is a distinguished hypocrite, so what could we really expect of him? Microsoft itself accepts Bitcoin at their site, and he either doesn't know or money does not stink. And my take is it's the second. On the other hand, what else could he say? He is a public figure, more or less, so he should be particularly careful about what he says and still more so about what he doesn't say. Obviously, he wouldn't want to sound like he is antigovermental.

I agree with you. I think Bill Gates is just giving his opinion about it, but for me its all up to the person if he will use crypto in a negative way or positive way. If their are people who uses crypto to buy drugs and any other stuffs that would create chaos, well its their choice. Even if without crypto bad persons will really find a way just to buy or do such thing that would harm other people. However, there are more people who uses crypto in a good way so it should'nt be stop, instead we should still continue supporting crypto.

[outsider99]

in my opinion, this is just some negative news from bitcoin, because this can also affect the stability of bitcoin prices. if that's true, it's just a handful of people who do it, and they already have bad intentions at the beginning, but they do it in bitcoin.

[criz2fer]

It's disappointing that one of the great pioneers and minds of our generation takes such a narrow minded approach. It seems as if he 'spoke' without really thinking about what he was saying. USD is equally as bad if not worse and many of these illegal transactions require PCs to transact. Let's not forget that bitcoin was developed in windows...

On the news he only gives only his opinion. Yes bitcoin is really unstoppable, but the government should moves.fast because Bill Gates only warns people the possibilities of using bitcoin illegally in every form of anonimous transactions..

[Reid]

Then why not just stop creating every currency in the world. Everything now can be used to buy anything specially money.

This is some old sh*t from this people. They ruin something when it goes at its peak. Well maybe, he is really ill-informed about bitcoin because it is showing now. How much USD did he get from just saying that?
America might be paying him now from the tax of the people. He might be a rich one but he doesnt know how to stop getting money from the people. 

[Tyrantt]

But 2 year ago also he said bitcoin is unstopable :/

and back in '83 he said that they'll never make a 32-bit operating system. Also,, just because someone said that something is unstoppable, that doesn't mean they're always speaking in positive light. Even some of the smartest people can say something dumb at that moment.

[Tictocgroup]

He has good FUD.

But then I guess Windows is directly killing children. Most pedos use Windows when they groom children.

I say we ban Windows. It's not even compatible with most crypto.

[CASTIEL05]

Anything that you used from illegal activities or things that might harmful to you is bad and may cause to your death. Everything that is too much is not good to our health. Yes, I believe that cryptocurrency can cause death specially, if the user did not know what is the essence of cryptocurrency in our life!

[pawel7777]

...
Bill Gates is a distinguished hypocrite, so what could we really expect of him? Microsoft itself accepts Bitcoin at their site, and he either doesn't know or money does not stink. And my take is it's the second. On the other hand, what else could he say? He is a public figure, more or less, so he should be particularly careful about what he says and still more so about what he doesn't say. Obviously, he wouldn't want to sound like he is antigovermental.

Well, not only MS accepts Bitcoin, but Gates himself made few rather positive comments about Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies in the past. That's not necessarily a hypocrisy on his part though. It's not like you have to be 100% for or against something. He could just be noticing both good and bad aspects of cryptos.

But again, the "cryptos causing deaths in fairy direct way" comment was simply idiotic.

[ausbit]

I think this is not a crypto problem then rather a personal choice. The fact that the evolution of some cryptocurrency gives some of us the opportunity to gain money it doesn't mean that you have to buy drugs with it, so the accusations of Bill Gates are unusual for him.

As everything have pros and cons, I think this falls upon us. This is our character exposure that what we select for us when these two are in front of us. Many people blame bitcoins to be used entirely in dark web and all such human trafficking and much other crimes.

Yes this is right, but ultimately it is all about choice of selecting something. Bitcoins are not cause for death if someone takes poison from shop through bitcoins.

[TorbjornE]

Here's the legend: at a computer trade show in 1981, Bill Gates supposedly uttered this statement, in defense of the just-introduced IBM PC's 640KB usable RAM limit: "640K ought to be enough for anybody."

He himself does not confirm this phrase, but a great man can be mistaken.

I think the share of crypto currency when buying illegal things is small due to the lack of confidence in its anonymity, volatility and other.

In the United States, it's easiest to go to a doctor and buy a prescription, then go to the pharmacy legally to buy a drug.

[BarbusseH]

Bill Gates has worked hard for many years to become what he is. And when some people suddenly become billionaires in a few months doing nothing, this causes subconscious rejection and negative reaction.

[leviathon]

He most likely has a guilt or something that he wasn't able to get into Bitcoin early on when many people were recommending it to him and thus might be trying to create some FUD to collect some cheap coins for himself. But, Bitcoin is at a level now that even negative news from people like Bill Gates isn't going to hurt it any more.

[Hell-raiser]

...
Bill Gates is a distinguished hypocrite, so what could we really expect of him? Microsoft itself accepts Bitcoin at their site, and he either doesn't know or money does not stink. And my take is it's the second. On the other hand, what else could he say? He is a public figure, more or less, so he should be particularly careful about what he says and still more so about what he doesn't say. Obviously, he wouldn't want to sound like he is antigovermental.

Well, not only MS accepts Bitcoin, but Gates himself made few rather positive comments about Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies in the past. That's not necessarily a hypocrisy on his part though. It's not like you have to be 100% for or against something. He could just be noticing both good and bad aspects of cryptos.

But again, the "cryptos causing deaths in fairy direct way" comment was simply idiotic.

I get your point but if we remember the history of the company he created and the sneaky practices it was using in the past (and probably still uses) to take advantage of their monopolistic position in the market whenever possible, suppress competition and weed out competitors at all costs (to get an idea see browser wars), Gates is likely the last man standing to take his words at their face-value. "Cryptos causing deaths in fairy direct way" is a telltale sign of or even insight into his mode of thinking, the narrative he sticks to deep inside. But maybe it is just a trait that all people in his social and business circle have got overdeveloped.

His buddy, Warenn Buffett, is also famous for purposefully talking gibberish and plain bullshit.

[kier010]

what he said is true that bitcoin is being use by terrorist or evil people to buy drugs, guns or any illegal thins. not just bitcoin also fiat and fiat are the first to be used to buy illegal things. bitcoin is good fiat is also good but if used wrong then it is nod good anymore.

[zkidkid]

...
Bill Gates is a distinguished hypocrite, so what could we really expect of him? Microsoft itself accepts Bitcoin at their site, and he either doesn't know or money does not stink. And my take is it's the second. On the other hand, what else could he say? He is a public figure, more or less, so he should be particularly careful about what he says and still more so about what he doesn't say. Obviously, he wouldn't want to sound like he is antigovermental.

Well, not only MS accepts Bitcoin, but Gates himself made few rather positive comments about Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies in the past. That's not necessarily a hypocrisy on his part though. It's not like you have to be 100% for or against something. He could just be noticing both good and bad aspects of cryptos.

But again, the "cryptos causing deaths in fairy direct way" comment was simply idiotic.

I get your point but if we remember the history of the company he created and the sneaky practices it was using in the past (and probably still uses) to take advantage of their monopolistic position in the market whenever possible, suppress competition and weed out competitors at all costs (to get an idea see browser wars), Gates is likely the last man standing to take his words at their face-value. "Cryptos causing deaths in fairy direct way" is a telltale sign of or even insight into his mode of thinking, the narrative he sticks to deep inside. But maybe it is just a trait that all people in his social and business circle have got overdeveloped.

His buddy, Warenn Buffett, is also famous for purposefully talking gibberish and plain bullshit.

Maybe you misunderstood his mean.Remember Microsoft is one of a member of EEA. I believe that he is really interesting at Blockchain/Bitcoin, however, he worried about Anonymity.

[fasdorcas]

First of all, I don’t think he’s talking about actual deaths, rather he’s just trying to say that Bitcoin is very risky and is making people lose everything they have. Why he mentioned the fentanyl drug is because he was trying to describe how bad the anonymity of Bitcoin can be, especially in cases of money laundering etc.

But no matter what, there are still people who are using Bitcoin for good. There are people that rely a lot on Bitcoin to help themselves and their families. So Bitcoin is important.

[Fasunathan]

I just saw this news, For me its always the choice of an individual in how people will use the technology, many of the technologies can make an easy way to do bad things in life but it is the choice of the people, if they use it in a bad way, they will suffer for their selves.


Crypto-currencies are killing people in a "fairly direct way", Microsoft founder Bill Gates has said.

He was referring to the way digital currencies like Bitcoin are used to buy drugs like synthetic opioid fentanyl.

In an "ask me anything" session on news website Reddit, he said that the anonymity of digital currencies meant they were linked to terrorist funding and money laundering.

Some criticised him, saying he was ill-informed about the technology.

Asked by one user for his opinion on the technology, Mr Gates replied: "The main feature of crypto-currencies is their anonymity. I don't think this is a good thing. The government's ability to find money laundering and tax evasion and terrorist funding is a good thing.

"Right now, crypto-currencies are used for buying fentanyl and other drugs so it is a rare technology that has caused deaths in a fairly direct way. I think the speculative wave around ICOs [initial coin offerings] and crypto-currencies is super risky for those who go long."

heres the link: http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-43239781

I don't agree with that because even if without bitcoin, one can buy fentanyl using fiat. If someone would use the blockchain to buy illegal drugs then he/she should be the look-out because he can be traced. In our country drugs is very rampant but not because of bitcoin. Using bitcoin to do such illegal act is not practical move economically.

[carlisle1]

I just saw this news, For me its always the choice of an individual in how people will use the technology, many of the technologies can make an easy way to do bad things in life but it is the choice of the people, if they use it in a bad way, they will suffer for their selves.


Crypto-currencies are killing people in a "fairly direct way", Microsoft founder Bill Gates has said.

He was referring to the way digital currencies like Bitcoin are used to buy drugs like synthetic opioid fentanyl.

In an "ask me anything" session on news website Reddit, he said that the anonymity of digital currencies meant they were linked to terrorist funding and money laundering.

Some criticised him, saying he was ill-informed about the technology.

Asked by one user for his opinion on the technology, Mr Gates replied: "The main feature of crypto-currencies is their anonymity. I don't think this is a good thing. The government's ability to find money laundering and tax evasion and terrorist funding is a good thing.

"Right now, crypto-currencies are used for buying fentanyl and other drugs so it is a rare technology that has caused deaths in a fairly direct way. I think the speculative wave around ICOs [initial coin offerings] and crypto-currencies is super risky for those who go long."

heres the link: http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-43239781

bill gates is a bitcoin fanatic coz he keeps saying contradicting words towards crypto lol..even FIATS can buy weapons and drugs..so why putting the issue on bitcoin?but hes true when he said years ago the BITCOIN IS UNSTOPPABLE no doubt about it,agree guys?😂 Well he might have many words but one thing is true here,even him Cant stop this community thats for sure

[Maricel2017]

I think Gates was invested huge amount of money when the bitcoin was on highest pick that is why he said that. I cant figure out that bitcoin will be dead because it has strong value that make more people attract to invest and have this currency.
I think i will be dead but bitcoin wont.

[PG13]

Some criticised him, saying he was ill-informed about the technology.

It is sad to see people disrespect int the opinion of a person who became the richest person in the world by making technological innovations. I agree that he is not god and may make mistakes but I am sure that he is very much aware about the risks associated with crypto.

If you follow him on social networking websites, you must have observed that he still likes to read a lot. I would not be surprised to know that his statement is based on what he has read about crypto from credible sources. We should try to take his advice much seriously than any other member here.

I respect Mr. Gates and everyone has there own statement about crypto. Even the Fiat money had been exploited with terrorist with their underground buying of illegal drugs and weapons. So it's normal that people will take opportunity on the anonymity of digital currency. Maybe Mr. Gates just doing a FUD to shaken the market with his respectable image whose intention is to buy crypto at lower prices.

[Question123]

So even bill gates said bitcoin is cause of deaths it will not affect becauze we have own opinion and iwn decision if we want to invest our money t cryotocurrency or not. Because we want to earn money that the reason why we need to invest cryptocurrency while billgates have a lot of money so even they did not invest to crpto it will not problem to him.

[cryptojac17]

So even bill gates said bitcoin is cause of deaths it will not affect becauze we have own opinion and iwn decision if we want to invest our money t cryotocurrency or not. Because we want to earn money that the reason why we need to invest cryptocurrency while billgates have a lot of money so even they did not invest to crpto it will not problem to him.

BIll Gates  just  say that  because bitcoin has been  with  drugs  issue  before by silk road  by using  but  bitcoin  a medium of payment able  to move on and they were able move  on. Aside from  moving  on become popular and more  demand.

[putot]

Well, i think it just depends on the people who think negative to bitcoin. Many people would say this is a savior and a blessing. If people think bitcoin has been a tool for negativity or even tool for crime and fraudulent transactions, well this depends on the people who used it for bad. But then, we should not generalized things.

[Gotumoot]

I just saw this news, For me its always the choice of an individual in how people will use the technology, many of the technologies can make an easy way to do bad things in life but it is the choice of the people, if they use it in a bad way, they will suffer for their selves.


Crypto-currencies are killing people in a "fairly direct way", Microsoft founder Bill Gates has said.

He was referring to the way digital currencies like Bitcoin are used to buy drugs like synthetic opioid fentanyl.

In an "ask me anything" session on news website Reddit, he said that the anonymity of digital currencies meant they were linked to terrorist funding and money laundering.

Some criticised him, saying he was ill-informed about the technology.

Asked by one user for his opinion on the technology, Mr Gates replied: "The main feature of crypto-currencies is their anonymity. I don't think this is a good thing. The government's ability to find money laundering and tax evasion and terrorist funding is a good thing.

"Right now, crypto-currencies are used for buying fentanyl and other drugs so it is a rare technology that has caused deaths in a fairly direct way. I think the speculative wave around ICOs [initial coin offerings] and crypto-currencies is super risky for those who go long."

heres the link: http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-43239781

Well , we can't force them to believe bitcoin all of us have different outlook to bitcoin industry , some people think bitcoin as a life saver and some people think bitcoin as an illegal stuffs. Still bitcoin can have a both effect either bad or good depend on people. I have some link or information about bill gates on year 2014, feel free to look at.

Link: https://www.cnbc.com/2017/12/19/bill-gates-in-2014-bitcoin-is-better-than-currency.html

[Nuru]

In his statement replace Bitcoin with any other FIAT currency and it still will be a true statement. This is invalid comment, coming from him.

Exactly. To blame cryptocurrencies about illegal activities (many which have been problem for so long) is laughable. Maybe Gate is trying to create FUD to buy cheap bitcoins

[BartS]

I'm interested in checking bill gates on a lie detector to see if he has any bitcoins. I am sure that the answer will be positive. Most famous people hide their earnings in cryptocurrency. Those famous people who honestly pay taxes admit that they have bitcoins. It's a worldwide epidemic. I think the bankers bribed or forced bill to tell that lie.

I do not think that is as common as you make it out to be there will be some people doing that but it should be the minority especially since there is not a clear regulation in all the countries about what you can do with your bitcoin and how to pay taxes with it, however I do see that becoming a problem in the future and it could be one of the reasons of why bitcoin will be banned, criminals will use bitcoin but that is not the real reason for the ban but it will be an excuse the real reason will be all the taxes the governments will lose against bitcoin.

[Aryancesarr]

Bill Gates has worked hard for many years to become what he is. And when some people suddenly become billionaires in a few months doing nothing, this causes subconscious rejection and negative reaction.

What a perfectly good explanation for this stetement! It makes me wonder.

[Carlsen]

I would say that fighting drugs, terrorists and money scams really is a good thing. So far I agree with Mr. Gates.
But putting all that on crypto currencies is a little far fetched in my eyes.
From what I can remember all those things have already existed long before bitcoin was created. And I am not aware of an increases of those activities since we have crypto currencies.
By the way, I am missing the positive effects that crypto currencies offer the world in his statement. Like creating jobs, for example.

[taiwww]

What we can say about that. It is also being done through fiat currency so it's not big thing I guess. I mean buying drugs and doing it via any currency is not different thing, it is what it is. If people are addicted to stuff like that then they are the responsible person for it and not we or neither bitcoin itself. Bitcoin is just another currency if we see everything that is done with the help of it. So it's not the crypto currency which is causing the deaths but anything that is can get you drugs can cause the death. Lol

[makolz26]

What we can say about that. It is also being done through fiat currency so it's not big thing I guess. I mean buying drugs and doing it via any currency is not different thing, it is what it is. If people are addicted to stuff like that then they are the responsible person for it and not we or neither bitcoin itself. Bitcoin is just another currency if we see everything that is done with the help of it. So it's not the crypto currency which is causing the deaths but anything that is can get you drugs can cause the death. Lol

Long time ago he says that it is okay to invest in cryptocurrency because it will really change your life, maybe he said that especially when you are doing trading that it requires most of your time so you should be awake at least 16-18 hours in a day so you can have ample time to look at it.

[Victor$]

I think Gates was invested huge amount of money when the bitcoin was on highest pick that is why he said that. I cant figure out that bitcoin will be dead because it has strong value that make more people attract to invest and have this currency.
I think i will be dead but bitcoin wont.

Yeah many people use to do this kind of mistake, they invest at high price and then they find the price decreasing they lose the patience and sell bitcoin so it make lose for them then they curse and mooch bitcoin as a reason of their lose but there is no such reality because bitcoin has no connecting with their lose people should invest at the time of low price and sell at the high price so they will call bitcoin as a life maker not a cause of death.

[Hell-raiser]

I would say that fighting drugs, terrorists and money scams really is a good thing. So far I agree with Mr. Gates.
But putting all that on crypto currencies is a little far fetched in my eyes.
From what I can remember all those things have already existed long before bitcoin was created. And I am not aware of an increases of those activities since we have crypto currencies.
By the way, I am missing the positive effects that crypto currencies offer the world in his statement. Like creating jobs, for example.

It doesn't really matter if Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies actually have anything to do with these dirty activities. You can rest assured that they do have after all. But the true question should be how much really? And this is where things get complicated. Or should I rather say nasty? It doesn't matter if only a small percentage of cryptocurrencies is used in such activities because the financial elites such as banksters and their likes will be more than happy to jump at this opportunity to defame crypto. They will find a few cases where Bitcoin has in fact been used in money laundering, terrorism financing, or whatever, and they will make a scapegoat out of it, blowing it completely out of proportion.

[Glaseseye]

I think Bill Gates says that be careful in investing in bitcoin because of the many cases of fraud and scams as well as others, which will affect our survival because when we invest and receive income that will be our own decision if we want to invest our money again or not or appropriately or not. Because if we want to earn a lot of money in the long term then to get it only by investing in kriptocurrency.

[Nahl]

long time ago before bitcoin was born people use money to buy drugs or guns for terorism and i think the problem is not from at what use for digital currencies but depend on the person themself not to digital currencies because even though if people does not have bitcoin but if they want to buy drugs i think they will use their money to buy it so in my opinion these statements were wrong

[Kizaki]

I really think that bitcoin or any other crypto-currencies are used in illegal transactions such as: drug trafficking, extortion, and many more. Since people who use block chain is anonymous, syndicates or gangs can easily move their money without even getting noticed. Cryptocurrency has a lot of uses, it gives convenience to everyone even illegal transactions.

[Hell-raiser]

I really think that bitcoin or any other crypto-currencies are used in illegal transactions such as: drug trafficking, extortion, and many more. Since people who use block chain is anonymous, syndicates or gangs can easily move their money without even getting noticed. Cryptocurrency has a lot of uses, it gives convenience to everyone even illegal transactions.

Well, I feel like it remains to be seen yet. Personally, I don't think that "old school" criminals are actively involved in crypto. They are likely using cash dollars and other material things like gold, diamonds, and other expensive items as decades before. So far only new-generation tech-savvy criminals have been caught, dudes like Dread Pirate Roberts (Ross Ulbricht) and folks behind crypto scams like Paul Vernon (still hiding somewhere). Has anyone heard about gangsters of a Pablo Escobar scale being implicated in illegal activities via Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies?

[GoldenLad]

Okay, in as much as he is right in some ways because if you ever visited the dark web, you will know that most of their means of monetary transaction to sell drugs, child porn and shipping weapons is been done through the use of Bitcoin and Monero. But  he shouldn't just judge like that, cause not everyone is into bitcoin because of drugs. Many people have been able to build their home, cater for their children and families because of bitcoin.

[BartS]

Bill Gates has worked hard for many years to become what he is. And when some people suddenly become billionaires in a few months doing nothing, this causes subconscious rejection and negative reaction.

Your post is weird, at first you say that Bill Gates work hard for many years and then you say that he got his fortune doing nothing, lets be very clear Bill Gates is a very hard working man he achieved his fortune creating new products and by being a very smart businessman, however that doesn't mean that we have to agree with everything he says, this comment seems to be based in a raw reaction, one of the reactions that people have just based on feelings because if he stopped to think about what he said he will recognize it was just a bunch of nonsense.

[Hell-raiser]

Bill Gates has worked hard for many years to become what he is. And when some people suddenly become billionaires in a few months doing nothing, this causes subconscious rejection and negative reaction.

Your post is weird, at first you say that Bill Gates work hard for many years and then you say that he got his fortune doing nothing, lets be very clear Bill Gates is a very hard working man he achieved his fortune creating new products and by being a very smart businessman, however that doesn't mean that we have to agree with everything he says, this comment seems to be based in a raw reaction, one of the reactions that people have just based on feelings because if he stopped to think about what he said he will recognize it was just a bunch of nonsense.

Maybe that poster just wanted to say that Bill Gates had been working very hard toward hitting a jackpot one day? Then everything seems to be in order and feels right about him and his success. So from the outside it could indeed look like he got his fortune basically for nothing, while in fact Gates had just been a smart guy who knew how to get things done in a right way, and in a smart way. Isn't this what everyone should be looking for anyway?

[destroyer01]

Bill Gates says bitcoin has caused deaths in a real way because some criminals used it to buy drugs.If they used Windows computers for these transactions,is Microsoft literally selling murder.

[BartS]

Bill Gates says bitcoin has caused deaths in a real way because some criminals used it to buy drugs.If they used Windows computers for these transactions,is Microsoft literally selling murder.

Exactly, if we are going to use that way of thinking then we can conclude that any person that has used Windows to commit a crime has made Microsoft guilty of a crime too, and we know that kind of logic is never going to fly on a court of law, can you imagine what will happen if I judge accepted that kind of logic? Everyone will be guilty of everything at some point a line needs to be drawn about the responsibility that a person has, for example we cannot blame the creator of the automobile for all the deaths that happens in cars right?

[beccer]

I just saw this news, For me its always the choice of an individual in how people will use the technology, many of the technologies can make an easy way to do bad things in life but it is the choice of the people, if they use it in a bad way, they will suffer for their selves.


Crypto-currencies are killing people in a "fairly direct way", Microsoft founder Bill Gates has said.

He was referring to the way digital currencies like Bitcoin are used to buy drugs like synthetic opioid fentanyl.

In an "ask me anything" session on news website Reddit, he said that the anonymity of digital currencies meant they were linked to terrorist funding and money laundering.

Some criticised him, saying he was ill-informed about the technology.

Asked by one user for his opinion on the technology, Mr Gates replied: "The main feature of crypto-currencies is their anonymity. I don't think this is a good thing. The government's ability to find money laundering and tax evasion and terrorist funding is a good thing.

"Right now, crypto-currencies are used for buying fentanyl and other drugs so it is a rare technology that has caused deaths in a fairly direct way. I think the speculative wave around ICOs [initial coin offerings] and crypto-currencies is super risky for those who go long."

heres the link: http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-43239781

what does not kill us? all kill us without us knowing it, if bitcoin is misused then we just set it up better so illegal trading through bitcoin does not happen

[ahiaba.john@yahoo.com]

All different kind of money can be used in different ways by owner. No one or government can restrict what someone use his money for. So also if someone with bitcoin choose to used his it to buy drugs as said then there is nothing wrong with that because many have used dollars to buy same. Bitcoin does not kill if you used it well.

[ceferov]

I don't think he knows enough about crypto-currencies. who can say that crypto causes more death than USD?  All countires are selling or buying guns or armors with USD not crypto.

[batang_bitcoin]

I don't think he knows enough about crypto-currencies.

I'm pretty sure that he has knowledge about crypto and he's not that ignorant with what's happening to the industry he chose to live.

who can say that crypto causes more death than USD? 

him.

All countires are selling or buying guns or armors with USD not crypto.

There are also illegal trades that are happening through crypto because it can easily exchange and convert through fiat with the use of many exchanges online.

[droptableguy2]

It is perfectly true that widespread money laundering has occurred in several countries and for this reason some countries have banned Bitcoin in their country. And anonymity so BTC is seen as a source of funding for terrorists to easily trade and buy weapons. I think identity verification on each BTC account will be clarified in the next few years.

[vergel24official]

He is right crypto-currency is used in wrong way like funding terrorists, drugs, tax evasion and money laundering. Definitely this kill innocent people.

[Hell-raiser]

He is right crypto-currency is used in wrong way like funding terrorists, drugs, tax evasion and money laundering. Definitely this kill innocent people.

The major issue with this stance/approach is that fiat is also used for all these things, and it is overwhelmingly likely that it is used for such activities to a much greater degree. So I don't think it is good to make it look like only crypto is to blame here, which is the effect produced, either intentionally or accidentally. We all know that cryptocurrencies, apart from a rare few like Byteball, are not very useful for large scale criminal operations if you need true, undisputed anonymity.

[Paractor]

Sure it can be used to kill.
But at the same time it can be used to save lives.

Think of it just like you would as a gun.

The holder of the weapon (in this case bitcoin) is in control of what it can be used for.

Good or evil.

You decide.

[yanlap]

He is right crypto-currency is used in wrong way like funding terrorists, drugs, tax evasion and money laundering. Definitely this kill innocent people.

The major issue with this stance/approach is that fiat is also used for all these things, and it is overwhelmingly likely that it is used for such activities to a much greater degree. So I don't think it is good to make it look like only crypto is to blame here, which is the effect produced, either intentionally or accidentally. We all know that cryptocurrencies, apart from a rare few like Byteball, are not very useful for large scale criminal operations if you need true, undisputed anonymity.

Blaming the gun inside of the shooter for taking life of an innocent shows how weak the judge is in head. Bill gates has mentioned only one way in which CRIMINALS are using bitcoin but he forgot to mention about all those people who have actually earned a lot of money with the help of bitcoin. It has saved them from financial crisis. Good people are going to use all inventions in good ways causing zero damage to humanity. Bitcoin is innocent.

[bosede1]

Truly bitcoin can be use to buy all what you have listed but have you give a second chance to think on what bitcoin has been use for positively. It is said that there is nothing that have a positive use without having the opposite. I don't think that this is a cause for alarm but to endeavor to abstain from using the coin in the negative way.

[Dragon5]

Truly, money cause death itself, whether it bitcoin or not. We have to admit, it's something rotten in humans' nature to turn good things into evil. I'm just disappointed Bill Gates didn't think of a new technology in a positive way. He could have suggested something useful

[goku1525]

Truly, money cause death itself, whether it bitcoin or not. We have to admit, it's something rotten in humans' nature to turn good things into evil. I'm just disappointed Bill Gates didn't think of a new technology in a positive way. He could have suggested something useful

Yes, we are anonymous but try to think this is not all about supporting terrorists how they can initiate to buy weapons and guns. Bitcoin is all about earning good moneys to help people in the economy and the transaction is clearly all about investment. Do you think bitcoin accepts the payment to buy such illegal weapons and guns. Bitcoin is useful in investment transaction not in illegal communication.

[Semosuchi Tesongrato]

It's the stupidest thing I've ever heard.
So we prohibit paper money because with them you can buy weapons and drugs?
Do we forbid water because we can drown ourselves?
C'mon...

[Hell-raiser]

He is right crypto-currency is used in wrong way like funding terrorists, drugs, tax evasion and money laundering. Definitely this kill innocent people.

The major issue with this stance/approach is that fiat is also used for all these things, and it is overwhelmingly likely that it is used for such activities to a much greater degree. So I don't think it is good to make it look like only crypto is to blame here, which is the effect produced, either intentionally or accidentally. We all know that cryptocurrencies, apart from a rare few like Byteball, are not very useful for large scale criminal operations if you need true, undisputed anonymity.

Blaming the gun inside of the shooter for taking life of an innocent shows how weak the judge is in head. Bill gates has mentioned only one way in which CRIMINALS are using bitcoin but he forgot to mention about all those people who have actually earned a lot of money with the help of bitcoin. It has saved them from financial crisis. Good people are going to use all inventions in good ways causing zero damage to humanity. Bitcoin is innocent.

It is not even so much blaming the gun instead of the shooter. It is more like blaming a specific model of a gun while keeping silent about other models used by gangsters. Yes, some models are used more often than others by criminals, but Bitcoin is not the favorite model in any case. Even if we banned the production of the favorite one, gangsters would simply use other firearms. Or just knives and bats, for example, if we ban them all.

[Biasaae]

He can say whatever he wants. Because he is a famous person, all of his words are recorded and become important to many people. To me, it is just some kinds of the word of normal people. There are many billions say that bitcoin will live forever and cryptocurrency will become a part of this world

I really agree with you. I am sure in the future we will depend on Cryptocurrency and of course we will depend on Bitcoin. We all can not predict the development of Bitcoin, but I do not want to think that Bitcoin will die.