Bitcoin core developer’s name and code misused to create misleading NFT for profit
On February 27, Bitcoin core developer Luke Dashjr took to social media to express his dismay at an auction site using his name and code without permission to create and sell a supposedly “misleading” non-fungible token (NFT). He revealed that the token was sold for 0.41 Bitcoins (roughly $9,500 at the time of writing) and noted that he was not the first Bitcoin developer to experience this misuse. The incident has sparked further discussion among developers and users of cryptocurrency about the ethical implications of using someone else’s work without permission.
Dashjr, the creator of the code listed in the auction, clarified that he had no involvement with creating and selling this particular NFT or any other. He clarified that he had not consented to have his name or code used for marketing purposes by third parties seeking to make a profit. After learning of its sale, Dashjr contacted the winner and told them he had no involvement in the auction.
Furthermore, Dashjr states that either the seller or the auction site had offered him a donation of 90% of the auction proceeds, which he declined. He believes this was an attempt to bribe him to obtain his consent after the fact and notes that he will not accept any such ‘donation.’ Dashjr further insists upon a full refund of 100% of the auction proceeds to the buyer due to the misrepresentation and confusion caused. He also disclosed that other Bitcoin developers have allegedly been offered “considerable” donations for their compliance in such cases, though he did not provide further information on this matter.
Dashjr also decried using his name to mislead the public and make a quick buck. “I do not consent to use my name or code for this gift,” he stated. Last year, decentralized marketplace OpenSea reported that over 80% of NFTs minted using its tool were “plagiarized works, fake collections, and spam.”
In January 2022, Dashjr was, unfortunately, the victim of a hack that led to him losing “basically” all his BTC when hackers gained access to his PGP (Pretty Good Privacy) key. The news reignited a discussion about self-custody, particularly in light of the collapse of the crypto exchange FTX. Nonetheless, Dashjr’s comments and story further highlight the importance of vigilance in crypto security.
