Blockchain transactions leave traces, meaning transactions could be analysed in the future, according to a cryptocurrency expert.
The identity of the individuals behind supposedly anonymous cryptocurrency transactions may be revealed as technology develops in the future, according to a cryptocurrency expert.
Although many users of cryptocurrencies value anonymity, particularly when using them in transactions on the dark web, advances in technology and law enforcement tools mean this secrecy is not guaranteed forever, Garrick Hileman, an economic historian at the University of Cambridge, told Business Insider.
“It’s like taking a blood sample from Lance Armstrong from 2005 — at that time, there was no way to test for the particular drug he may have been using, but through preservation you can, retroactively,” said Hileman.
Bitcoin has soared in value this year, rising over 1,000% against the dollar so far. This has prompted both increased interest and concern from investors and financial executives. European and UK authorities are planning to crack down on bitcoin as concerns grow that cryptocurrencies are being used to facilitate financial crimes and launder money.
Since blockchain transactions are recorded, future law enforcement officials may be able to go back and reveal the details of sales and users, even if they do not have the tools to do this today.
Source/More: Cambridge academic: cryptocurrency users’ anonymity may not last – Business Insider
