Nakamoto Lawyers Up: I'm Not the 'Father of Bitcoin'

His statement will be the last he says on the matter
By Evann Gastaldo,  Newser Staff
Posted Mar 17, 2014 1:03 AM CDT
Nakamoto Lawyers Up: I'm Not the 'Father of Bitcoin'
Dorian Satoshi Nakamoto is shown during an interview at the Associated Press bureau Thursday, March 6, 2014 in Los Angeles.   (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes)

Dorian Satoshi Nakamoto is serious about making sure no one thinks he's the "father of bitcoin": The California 64-year-old has now hired a law firm to "clear my name," he says in a statement released last night. "I did not create, invent, or otherwise work on bitcoin," it reads, according to the Los Angeles Times. "I unconditionally deny the Newsweek report" that claimed otherwise. Nakamoto had previously given an interview denying the Newsweek claims, but his lawyer says this statement will be his final comment on the matter. It attempts to clear up a few specifics:

  • His background in programming: "My background is in engineering. I also have the ability to program. My most recent job was as an electrical engineer troubleshooting air traffic control equipment for the FAA. I have no knowledge of nor have I ever worked on cryptography, peer to peer systems, or alternative currencies."
  • The gap in his resume that corresponds to the period during which bitcoin came about: "I have not been able to find steady work as an engineer or programmer for 10 years. I have worked as a laborer, polltaker, and substitute teacher. I discontinued my internet service in 2013 due to severe financial distress. I am trying to recover from prostate surgery in October 2012 and a stroke I suffered in October of 2013. My prospects for gainful employment has [sic] been harmed because of Newsweek's article."
  • The article itself: Nakamoto says he "never consented to speak with the reporter," according to a full copy of the statement TechCrunch has.
(More Satoshi Nakamoto stories.)

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