Bitcoin Security Advocate Lopp Documents 200 Physical Attacks on Bitcoiners in 2025

Jameson Lopp, a prominent figure in the Bitcoin community, has long been an advocate for Bitcoin security. His work has been instrumental in raising awareness about the potential dangers surrounding crypto security setups and the Bitcoin network. Despite the unglamorous nature of his message, which often goes unheard until people lose access to their private keys, Lopp remains dedicated to his mission. His efforts have led to him being bumped from the main stage at large events, as his focus on the technical problems of the system conflicts with the narratives that aim to pump up adoption.

As the co-founder and Chief Security Officer of Bitcoin security provider Casa, and the creator of the Bitcoin real-time node monitoring platform statoshi, Lopp has been inundated with work. He has over half a million followers on X, where he continues to educate and inform the community about the importance of Bitcoin security. Lopp's life has been marked by significant challenges, including a grueling SWATting attack in 2017, which led him to adopt extreme measures to protect his privacy and security. He has made himself nearly impossible to find, using ad-blockers, VPNs, and even establishing a decoy address, all while educating others on how to erase their own data trails.

Lopp's commitment to Bitcoin security is unwavering, despite the personal risks he faces. He has documented over 200 physical attacks on Bitcoiners, with more than 30 of those occurring in the first half of 2025. The rise in these attacks is attributed to the growing value and awareness of the Bitcoin ecosystem, which attracts a small percentage of sociopaths willing to harm others for personal gain. Lopp has also noted a trend of organized crime groups specializing in these types of attacks, with incidents reported in various regions, including the east coast of America and France.

In response to the increasing threat of physical attacks, Lopp advises Bitcoiners to avoid Know Your Customer (KYC) processes whenever possible. He recommends using non-KYC services, which are less convenient but offer greater privacy. For those who must use KYC services, Lopp suggests using a passport instead of an address and providing a private mailbox address if possible. He acknowledges that these measures may be out of reach for many, but emphasizes the importance of protecting one's privacy in the era of KYC.

Lopp's dedication to Bitcoin is driven by his belief in its potential as a peer-to-peer electronic cash system. He is concerned about the current state of the ecosystem, particularly the adoption of Bitcoin through traditional financial vehicles that do not offer self-custody options. He worries that this trend could lead to a highly centralized system, which would be contrary to the original vision of Bitcoin. Lopp is also conflicted about the rise of Bitcoin treasury companies, as he believes that a more level playing field is needed to prevent the concentration of Bitcoin in too few hands.

When asked about the greatest threat to the Bitcoin network, Lopp cites quantum computing as a long-term existential issue. He compares the quantum computing problem to climate change, noting that it is an ever-present threat that seems distant when there are more pressing issues to face. Lopp believes that the Bitcoin community needs to prepare for the potential impact of quantum computing, which could take years to address. He hopes that the community has at least 10 years to prepare, as this would provide a sufficient buffer to implement necessary changes.

Despite the numerous challenges facing the Bitcoin network, Lopp remains optimistic about its future. He believes that the best way to contribute to the space is to continue talking about Bitcoin and discussing its problems. By keeping people interested and engaged, the community can address potential threats before they become major issues. Lopp's unwavering commitment to Bitcoin security serves as an inspiration to the community, and his efforts to educate and inform continue to make a significant impact on the future of the network.