I was wrong about crime, although volatility scares me

[Rgram]

After reading most of the replies i got from my previous topic i'll be honest, some of you have made me rethink my statement. https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5586241.msg66855157#msg66855157

"Perfect for laundering" was probably wrong because I just learntt that it wasn't the purpose of Bitcoin creation. Moreover, it's a digital money so anyone can use it including criminals.

Criminal element can launder money just anywhere they want. It doesn’t matter what is being regulated or not. Once the intention is there, they would always find a loophole in whatever system to exploit. Money laundering has always being a problem even before the advent of Bitcoin and it still is today, those traditional ways to it is still very functional in today still.

Wonder how the cartel drug traffickers get their money? Make no mistake they don’t exchange drugs for Bitcoins out there on the street, it’s mostly cash and it still finds a way back to the cartels.

So when it comes to Bitcoin, of course criminal elements can still use it for their illicit purposes but, that doesn’t make Bitcoin a currency for criminal activities.

Concerning the last post, i was just being cautious cause the scams on Telegram with Bitcoin is getting too much out of hand, but I've now learnt that Bitcoin doesn't choose who uses it or what they use it for. Well I'm not going deep into it yet but I'll take it more seriously now I'm convinced that it's a very good alternative  to fiat. Although there are questions on volatility I'll ask later.

Telegram is a social media channel of its own and the regulations of what is being done there is solely in the hands of those that own the channel. Unfortunately, these medias exist on the bases of respecting privacies in end to end agreement except, a serious concern is raised by government agencies, they don’t go snooping for these things. Hence, it is up to everyone to be aware.

[Fiatless]

Bitcoin is a currency and an asset, so anything that has the value of money must be targeted by both good and evil people. That Bitcoin is used by criminals doesn't make it a bad coin. Bitcoin is like a vehicle that can be used to transport both criminal and non criminal yo their destination. That a vehicle is used by criminals for robbery doesn't make it bad but the people making used of it are bad. So Bitcoin on its own is very important tool and it is very helpful regardless of how people use it for ulterior motive. Bitcoin will always be good despite how scammers want to paint it black.

There was a recent case of the kidnapping of the mother of Today show host Savannah Guthrie. The people behind the kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie asked for ransom in Bitcoin. I live in an area where there are cases of kidnapping and none of these criminals have asked for payments in Bitcoin. The reason is that Bitcoin transactions can easily be tracked if centralised platforms are used. Fiat is the best currency to use for criminal activities because it can hardly be traced. Money is neutral and can be used both for good and evil.

[Finestream]

I'm no longer moved by what people are saying about bitcoin because I know that not everyone truly understand how it works, I'm always careful not to let others decision and inconsiderable act destruct me from making my investment in Bitcoin because of the FUD the propagate online about bitcoin and what it is not.

We are expected to have forum like this as our major source of reliable bitcoin information and discussions, some other random platforms and influencers may not be a good source for us, because they can easily discourage us from what they are saying despite they don't know anything about it.

There will always be positive and negative discussions within the forum, and there are those who have no idea of what they're talking about especially if they lack the idea about bitcoin or in general the whole crypto market. That is why it's safer to have great and reliable knowledge about bitcoin because no matter what others are saying, you won't be moved and affected on it.

You know your goal, and you know bitcoin more than others know it, so stick with it as long as you know you are investing in your safe zone.

[Rengga Jati]

In essence, anything has two sides. It depends on how we use it. Even fiat and other currencies can be used for criminal purposes. So, this will depend on us. Will we be like those criminals? Will we use it for money laundering or other crimes? It should be "NO," right? I'm actually glad to know that you understood this thing after reading more replies in this thread. never stop to learn, still many things to understand, (me too).

I'm no longer moved by what people are saying about bitcoin because I know that not everyone truly understand how it works, I'm always careful not to let others decision and inconsiderable act destruct me from making my investment in Bitcoin because of the FUD the propagate online about bitcoin and what it is not.

Indeed, this is a very crucial part. We know Bitcoin. We already use Bitcoin. We have got more benefits from Bitcoin. We understand how to use Bitcoin wisely. So, it is no need to think of what other people say, moreover about the FUD for Bitcoin. No need to think o fit. Just be more patient if many FUD are spreading. Because there must be haters that will gonna hate. As long as we understand exactly what we must do, just let it do.

[Vaculin]

We are expected to have forum like this as our major source of reliable bitcoin information and discussions, some other random platforms and influencers may not be a good source for us, because they can easily discourage us from what they are saying despite they don't know anything about it.

Thats right. Many of those users are close minded when you explained to them the true purpose of bitcoin. Well Satoshi indeed made it for peer to peer transaction without intervention from third party but that part is quite impossible when you incorporated the regulatories and rules of each and different government among countries.

Well somehow its true that criminals can use it since Satoshi didnt mentioned parricularly an exemption for using it only individuals which included any sort.

Bitcoin creates equal opportunities to every user, which means even criminals are free to use in one way or another. Bitcoin bypasses traditional financial institutions without a central authority to block it that's why its the criminals favorite tool.

But saying bitcoin is made for the criminals purpose is another thing. It was never like that. Satoshi created for everyone's advantages, that even criminals can find it very useful if they know how to navigate bitcoin.

[ZAINmalik75]

I'm truly surprised by the fact that even in 2026, some people are still thinking about Bitcoin being a criminal currency because it used to be a narrative back in the day when Bitcoin was newly gaining popularity around the world, and mainstream media and all its haters used to portray it negatively by using all these excuses and terms such as Bitcoin is a currency used by criminals, or that Bitcoin is a bubble that will burst very soon, but over time, people realized that those were all just false statements and rumors about Bitcoin.

But now, when Bitcoin has become so famous and adoption has increased so much, Bitcoin has even set a record of reaching $126k as its all-time high, and some people are still doubtful whether it is a legit thing or just a currency used by criminals. I believe it should be common sense for people to understand that even fiat currencies can be used by criminals, and they are even easier to use because they can't be traced or you can have no record but with Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies, almost all the transactions are recorded in the blockchain.

[Questat]

Every tool like bitcoin will always have its pros and cons. While some people use it smartly and invest into bitcoin, some are wise enough to take advantage of bitcoin in pursuing criminal activities. And the thing is, we can't stop these people from accessing bitcoin due to its decentralized nature and pseudonymity because bitcoin is made for everyone.

If you are one of those people who are not knowledgeable about bitcoin, obviously you will fall on this trap. But for those who are bitcoiners, or have basic knowledge on it, they will always have an edge over others, and will never fall victims to these criminals.

[obuoma]

Some people try so hard to link Bitcoin to crime even though most of the crimes happening in the world are financed by the fiat payment system. That some criminals use Bitcoin does not mean that Bitcoin was created for that. Everyone can use Bitcoin just like they use every other currency, that is how Bitcoin was design to do, an alternative to fiat currency that offer freedom to users and not subject to censorship and control by the powers that be. If few people find a way to use it for the wrong purpose, that is just a wrong way of using the freedom that Bitcoin offers which cannot be used to condemn Bitcoin.

[Japinat]

I'm no longer moved by what people are saying about bitcoin because I know that not everyone truly understand how it works, I'm always careful not to let others decision and inconsiderable act destruct me from making my investment in Bitcoin because of the FUD the propagate online about bitcoin and what it is not.

We are expected to have forum like this as our major source of reliable bitcoin information and discussions, some other random platforms and influencers may not be a good source for us, because they can easily discourage us from what they are saying despite they don't know anything about it.

People will not be easily conveyed if they have this strong stance for bitcoin, even if their view points will always be contradicted by those who are self-acclaimed that they know bitcoin well. A lot of people will try to ruin what bitcoin has established, especially if they are also trying to introduce or promote something that they think much better for bitcoin.

But so far, bitcoin remained immovable, and so are the true believers of bitcoin. We can't stop them, but we can always chose decisions and actions that we think are suitable for bitcoin, not for them.

[Floxynice]

After reading most of the replies i got from my previous topic i'll be honest, some of you have made me rethink my statement. https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5586241.msg66855157#msg66855157

"Perfect for laundering" was probably wrong because I just learntt that it wasn't the purpose of Bitcoin creation. Moreover, it's a digital money so anyone can use it including criminals.

The reply that convinced me most was "Bitcoin is like a knife and it's function depends it's owner". Meaning that people can use it for good or for crime and the fact that criminals use it doesn't make it crime coin. https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5586241.msg66855533#msg66855533

Concerning the last post, i was just being cautious cause the scams on Telegram with Bitcoin is getting too much out of hand, but I've now learnt that Bitcoin doesn't choose who uses it or what they use it for. Well I'm not going deep into it yet but I'll take it more seriously now I'm convinced that it's a very good alternative  to fiat. Although there are questions on volatility I'll ask later.

Hello mate, you should let all your fears out. That is why you are here on the Bitcointalk forum, among a community of people who understand Bitcoin better. Bitcoin is what it is, and if you come back in the next 10 years to research Bitcoin, it will still be what it is: a decentralized digital currency. I am glad that you now understand that Bitcoin is not the problem and has never been the problem. Criminals and the bad eggs among us have been the ones using Bitcoin for the wrong reasons. If the government has a problem with it, they should improve security in their country and do all they can to fish out those criminals.

As for volatility, trust me, it should be one of the reasons why you love Bitcoin. The value keeps appreciating because it is volatile. And when there is a dip or when we enter a bear market, you can buy at a lower price and sell during the bull market for profits, or you can HODL for a longer time to retain wealth for yourself. You will love volatility once you understand it.

[GreatArkansas]

About this discussion, what many people are missing is that fiat is the same as this; there are even more criminal activities that are being used by fiat currencies, and why are there some that are really too hard for Bitcoin when Bitcoin is sometimes involved in criminal activities?

[Oasisman]

Glad you learned something new and now have deeper understanding about Bitcoin and its purpose.
Now, volatility scares you, well, don't worry because you're not alone. Even those who have invested in Bitcoin in a couple or so years can still be startled when Bitcoin suddenly drops, and then sell their bags. Those are the weak hands.
Some retail investors don't DCA, but suddenly buy in bulk when Bitcoin suddenly rises. Those are the people who FOMO'd.
See, those are the type of people who are scared of Bitcoin's very volatile nature.

Trust me, when you learn how to trust and understand Bitcoin and the future, you'll eliminate that level of fear you're feeling right now. You just need to experience the roller coaster ride first and then you'll get used to it.

[Rustam Meraj]

This is common to think of Bitcoin first as way to commit crimes, it is like other financial tools, neutral technology. The knife comparison is right as it is the person using the knife and not the knife itself that will determine its use. Your fear of being scammed with Telegram is also fair, as most problems are due to dishonesty of users and not from Bitcoin itself. You are better off thinking about it somewhat now than completely dropping or believing it. There is much of unpredictability to this aspect and that is why it makes sense to continue questioning it before making final decision.

[Darker45]

Just like Bitcoin, you can make use of volatility either the right or wrong way. Volatility is bad because it's risky. It makes Bitcoin unstable. But it could also be good because you can take advantage of it. You can make money out of it.

Volatility is bad for Bitcoin because it could turn $64,000 into $62,000 within a day, but it's good because it could also turn $62,000 to $65,000 the following day. Now, it's up to you how you'd make the most of it.

As far as the track record is concerned, however, Bitcoin's volatility could create wealth for you if you hodl.

[BlackBoss_]

Just like Bitcoin, you can make use of volatility either the right or wrong way. Volatility is bad because it's risky. It makes Bitcoin unstable. But it could also be good because you can take advantage of it. You can make money out of it.

Volatility is bad for Bitcoin because it could turn $64,000 into $62,000 within a day, but it's good because it could also turn $62,000 to $65,000 the following day. Now, it's up to you how you'd make the most of it.

As far as the track record is concerned, however, Bitcoin's volatility could create wealth for you if you hodl.

Bitcoin is only one, unique and there is also only one Bitcoin market for everyone. In a same market with one asset, people will think about the market, speculate the market trend and next movements differently and because of such opposite thinkings, they will make different trading decisions. Because of market volatility, traders are most sensitive with it and possible inaccurate and bad trading positions as well as decisions for their exits.

With people who understand about trading and risks of trading, then make strong choice to invest their money in Bitcoin and ignore trading, they can feel something really opposite than traders see. They see greater opportunities, more safety with Bitcoin because most volatile times in Bitcoin market is when they can accumulate bitcoins with cheaper prices. Then they will not trade, but withdraw bitcoins to their non custodial wallets, and hold a long time while will continue their accumulation.

[jcojci]

So Bitcoin is neutral, not positive or negative but depend on people use. We are clear for that so we don't have to feels anything and choose how we want to use Bitcoin.

But you don't have to scares about volatility and just buy when the price is down and sell when the price is up. That gives you profit which you can collect it many times following the price fluctuation. So you can make more profit and rinse and repeat the process but before you can do that, make sure you have skills.

[Hewlet]

Concerning the last post, i was just being cautious cause the scams on Telegram with Bitcoin is getting too much out of hand, but I've now learnt that Bitcoin doesn't choose who uses it or what they use it for.

The only way you get to learn and clear your doubt about things is when you ask questions or share your insight on things. Like you've already known now, bitcoin doesn't chose who uses it and how it's being used. People learn about it and decide the angle they are interested in and what they plan to make use of it for. Just like it's the case with fiat, some use It for business others use It for a bad motive but in all, fiat isn't looked at in bad light just because people choose to use It for what pleases them.

What others that are probably dubious choose to use bitcoin for is totally up to them. It's now left for you to decide what you want to use It for. There are several good use of the asset and that's why in the midst of the abuse and propaganda, it's still doing really good till date.

[Outhue]

After reading most of the replies i got from my previous topic i'll be honest, some of you have made me rethink my statement. https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5586241.msg66855157#msg66855157

"Perfect for laundering" was probably wrong because I just learntt that it wasn't the purpose of Bitcoin creation. Moreover, it's a digital money so anyone can use it including criminals.

The reply that convinced me most was "Bitcoin is like a knife and it's function depends it's owner". Meaning that people can use it for good or for crime and the fact that criminals use it doesn't make it crime coin. https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5586241.msg66855533#msg66855533

Concerning the last post, i was just being cautious cause the scams on Telegram with Bitcoin is getting too much out of hand, but I've now learnt that Bitcoin doesn't choose who uses it or what they use it for. Well I'm not going deep into it yet but I'll take it more seriously now I'm convinced that it's a very good alternative  to fiat. Although there are questions on volatility I'll ask later.

Bitcoin has nothing to do with telegram scams, those are engineered by scammers and if Bitcoin doesn't exit they will likely ask for Fiat or alternative coins, you just have to pay with something valuable and bitcoin is valuable and popular, that's why it's a good one.

Many newbies are also getting into Blockchain with no knowledge at all🔥, this makes it a perfect ground for scammers because they will be dealing with alot of newbies who have no clue what they are doing.

In a space where people know what they are doing, scams have no ground to breed, unfortunately crypto space isn't like this, it's a bit complicated for beginners and most beginners don't want to learn before running after money..

[Filicius]

I'm truly surprised by the fact that even in 2026, some people are still thinking about Bitcoin being a criminal currency because it used to be a narrative back in the day when Bitcoin was newly gaining popularity around the world, and mainstream media and all its haters used to portray it negatively by using all these excuses and terms such as Bitcoin is a currency used by criminals, or that Bitcoin is a bubble that will burst very soon, but over time, people realized that those were all just false statements and rumors about Bitcoin.

But now, when Bitcoin has become so famous and adoption has increased so much, Bitcoin has even set a record of reaching $126k as its all-time high, and some people are still doubtful whether it is a legit thing or just a currency used by criminals. I believe it should be common sense for people to understand that even fiat currencies can be used by criminals, and they are even easier to use because they can't be traced or you can have no record but with Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies, almost all the transactions are recorded in the blockchain.

I have witnessed how the discourse has been changing in recent years and although as you said a few years ago most of the media only talked about Bitcoin linked to crimes or scams, lately I would say that an equal number of news with positive connotations are heard. It could not be otherwise, the success both in terms of price and institutional adoption has been resounding, but there are still media that, for specific interests, are still interested in demonising Bitcoin, and that means that there are still many people who have not changed their notion about it.