Highlights:
- Craig Wright officially denies being Bitcoin creator Satoshi Nakamoto
- UK court freezes Wright’s assets, intensifies crypto debate
- Legal fallout may reshape blockchain copyright norms
Craig Wright, the Australian computer scientist who previously claimed to have created Bitcoin, has now officially stated on his website that he is not Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonymous creator of Bitcoin. This announcement follows the UK High Court of Justice directive, which recently concluded that Wright is not the pseudonymous figure behind Bitcoin. The disclaimer on Wright’s website also highlights that he was not the author of the Bitcoin white paper, nor does he hold any copyrights over the technology it describes.
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CRAIG WRIGHT ORDERED TO DECLARE HE IS NOT BITCOIN FOUNDER SATOSHI NAKAMOTO
– UK Judge James Mellor ordered Craig Wright to post on his website, Slack, and X (formerly Twitter) that he is not the founder of Bitcoin, Satoshi Nakamoto, following a court ruling.
– Wright has… https://t.co/hCKW63je0J pic.twitter.com/yjmaf62Mw2
— BSCN (@BSCNews) July 16, 2024
UK Court Freezes Wright’s Assets, Denies Satoshi’s Claim
The website now includes a link directing visitors to a summary of the court’s findings, backed by the Crypto Open Patent Alliance (COPA). This group, which includes various developers and crypto-related projects, has played a pivotal role in fostering open-source practices within the cryptocurrency sector.
The legal proceedings against Wright culminated in a ruling by Judge James Mellor of the UK High Court. The decision came after COPA presented over 50 documents and expert testimonies. These revealed inconsistencies and tampering in Wright’s claims.
The court ruling dismissed Craig Wright’s claims of being Satoshi Nakamoto, resulting in his assets being frozen. This action helped Peter McCormack recover $2 million in legal fees. McCormack defended against Wright’s defamation suit in 2019.
Court Ruling on Wright Ignites Crypto Debate
Judge Mellor suggested an investigation into Craig Wright for potential perjury. This was due to inconsistencies observed during the trial.. This suggestion underscores the severity of the findings against Wright and the potential legal repercussions he could still face.
The High Court’s decision consequently ignited discussions on Satoshi Nakamoto’s identity and highlighted the effects of false claims in crypto. As a result, Wright’s legal outcomes are closely scrutinized for setting precedents in blockchain copyright and patent claims, which, in turn, significantly influence crypto legal practices.
The case underscores authenticity and accountability challenges in the crypto industry, which is marked by privacy and pseudonymity. As the community advocates for transparency and integrity, this case might prompt stricter standards and legal scrutiny in the industry.
Although no formal application has been submitted, Wright intends to appeal Judge Mellor’s ruling. The crypto community will be closely watching for updates in this high-profile case. These developments could impact public perception and regulations.
Court Issues Freezing Order Against Craig Wright
The UK High Court recently issued a $1.9 million Worldwide Freezing Order against Craig Wright, favoring cryptocurrency commentator Peter McCormack. This decision was a major step in the legal battles over Wright’s claims of being Bitcoin’s creator, Satoshi Nakamoto.
Justice Mellor granted the order to stop Wright from moving his assets to avoid paying McCormack’s legal costs. These costs arose from a defamation lawsuit Wright filed against McCormack, where the court found Wright had presented false evidence.
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