Crypto’s dark myth: a tool exclusively used by criminals has persisted since the early days of the industry. This misconception can be traced back to the infamous Silk Road marketplace, which operated on the dark web from 2011 to 2013, dealing in illicit goods such as drugs and engaging in nefarious activities. These associations with crypto have led to its negative reputation in the mainstream media. Ironically, the decentralization and perceived anonymity of cryptocurrencies have only fueled these concerns further.
However, data from independent blockchain analysis company Chainalysis reveals that the overwhelming majority of crypto transactions are actually carried out by ordinary people. In fact, Binance alone, the leading cryptocurrency exchange, boasts more than 120 million registered users. Recent figures show that illicit activity accounted for merely 0.15% of all crypto transactions in 2021, down from 0.62% in 2020, with money laundering making up only 0.05% of the criminal activity.
In contrast, according to the United Nations, criminals launder between $800 billion and $2 trillion annually, representing 2% to 5% of global GDP. Crypto transactions make up a meager 0.03% of this figure. The truth is, criminals are deterred by crypto due to the fact that all transactions are publicly and permanently recorded, making it much easier for investigators to trace the money trail and identify bad actors.
It appears that the myth of crypto being predominantly used by criminals is grossly overblown. The reality is that the vast majority of transactions and investments in crypto are indeed legitimate, aimed at harnessing the real-world use cases of the technology. Blockchain has opened the door to a multitude of opportunities, with cryptocurrencies being just one of the many aspects. Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and decentralized finance (DeFi) are just a few examples of the potential applications of this groundbreaking technology.
In conclusion, it is high time to dispel the myth that crypto is only for criminals. The evidence clearly shows that ordinary people are the ones benefiting from the vast potential of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies. The crypto space is undeniably experiencing exponential growth, mostly due to legitimate transactions and innovations within the industry. As such, the narrative should focus on the transformative potential of this technology rather than perpetuating baseless misconceptions. Embracing the truth will help further the adoption and development of blockchain technology, benefiting not just the crypto enthusiasts but society as a whole.
Source: Cryptopotato
Debunking Major Myths With Binance: Crypto Being Mainly Used by Criminals
