Linus Torvalds, the Finnish-American software engineer renowned for creating the Linux operating system and the distributed version control system Git.
In a recent forum post, Linus Torvalds expressed his skepticism about cryptocurrencies, describing them as a “great vehicle for scams” and likening them to a Ponzi scheme designed to trick participants into being left “holding the bag.” He humorously dismissed the credibility of cryptocurrencies along with fictional characters like Santa Claus, the tooth fairy, and the Easter bunny. Additionally, Torvalds addressed old rumors suggesting he might be Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonymous figure credited with creating Bitcoin, labeling such claims as “empty noise” and clarifying a previous GitHub incident as a mere jest.
Torvalds’ comments were made in a forum post recently, although no specific date for the post was provided in the initial statement.
This discussion took place on an online forum, which serves as a common platform for tech leaders like Torvalds to express opinions and engage with the public and professional community.
Torvalds articulated his views clearly, using straightforward language to debunk the practicality and integrity of cryptocurrencies. He also tackled the Satoshi Nakamoto rumors head-on, explaining an alleged GitHub name change as a practical joke rather than evidence of his involvement with Bitcoin. This demystification comes from a respected figure in the tech community, known for his candid and often blunt perspectives.
Linus Torvalds has been a pivotal figure in the tech world since he developed the Linux kernel at the age of 21. His creation has since become the backbone of countless open-source projects. Torvalds’ views carry significant weight due to his expertise and the foundational role he plays in the software engineering and open-source movements. His critical stance on cryptocurrencies reflects a broader skepticism among some sectors of the tech community who question the stability, sustainability, and ethical implications of crypto investments. Torvalds’ dismissal of the technological singularity as mere “bedtime story” and “click-bait” aligns with his known propensity for grounding tech discussions in reality, away from sensationalism.
