This episode serves as a weekly recap of crypto news from the week of July 11th to 17th, 2014, highlighting themes of increasing global adoption, technological innovation, and ongoing security controversies.
Summary
The episode covered several developments, ranging from cybercrime incidents to major infrastructure advancements. Key stories included a Russian hacking group demanding ransom for a user database, and the launch of a revolutionary broadcast technology in Finland that could transmit the Bitcoin blockchain over traditional national TV networks without needing the internet. Adoption continued to grow, marked by new Bitcoin ATMs in the US and Canada, and the establishment of a new exchange in Thailand.
Main Topics Discussed
* Cybercrime: A Russian hacking group ("Warm") held a user database for ransom, noting their previous actions were merely for "attention."
* Infrastructure/Tech: A Finnish group launched "Crypto Radio," allowing the Bitcoin blockchain to be broadcast in real-time via National Television Broadcasting Networks.
* Political Adoption: In Sweden, a deputy mayor ran for office using only Bitcoin for campaign funding.
* Media & Culture: The acquisition of the comedy blog Botscoin.org by Potterfly Labs, and the release of a new graphic novel about Satoshi Nakamoto.
* Global Adoption: The opening of new Bitcoin ATMs in Albany, NY, and Calgary, Alberta, Canada, alongside the establishment of a new exchange in Thailand.
Key Quotes
1. "I would have held the database ransom for 10 Bitcoin at least!"
2. "This means that the Bitcoin blockchain will be transmitted in real time over the air without the use of the internet!"
3. "Now all we need is for Slantan to run for office and you can shut up and take my Bitcoin!"
People Mentioned
* Mathias Sundin (Deputy mayor of Norrköping, Sweden)
* Satoshi Nakamoto (The creator of Bitcoin)
* Hamel Seckman and Hong Ki (Hosts)
Bitcoin Price
No specific numerical price was mentioned. The hosts noted that the price could be checked by searching "one Bitcoin" on Google.