Solana VC-heavy funding sparks Snowden concerns on decentralization
Solana VC-heavy funding sparks Snowden concerns on decentralization
Bangkok, Thailand — Privacy advocate and former NSA contractor Edward Snowden called for stronger decentralization in the technology sector, warning of the risks posed by venture capital influence and AI-driven surveillance. Speaking at Near’s Redacted conference, Snowden addressed pressing issues within the cryptocurrency and blockchain communities, as well as the growing capabilities of AI to enable pervasive surveillance.
Snowden expressed concerns over the increasing influence of venture capital on blockchain networks, particularly using the Solana network as an example. He described Solana as “born in prison” due to substantial venture capital investments, suggesting that financial backing can limit the independence and resilience of blockchain projects. Although he acknowledged Solana’s potential for growth, Snowden cautioned that heavy ownership by investors may compromise the core principles of decentralization that are fundamental to blockchain’s initial vision.
The threat of AI surveillance
A core element of Snowden’s speech focused on the dangers of AI-powered surveillance, particularly in the hands of governments and corporations. He highlighted the capability of AI to monitor and analyze vast amounts of personal data in real time, allowing authorities to conduct live data analysis and potentially enabling unprecedented levels of scrutiny over individuals. According to Snowden, this type of surveillance would let systems flag "anomalies," leading to invasive targeting based on AI-driven assumptions about behavior.
“They want to train it on everything,” Snowden stated, emphasizing the need for safeguards against mass surveillance. By integrating AI with surveillance technology, Snowden warns, societies risk creating tools that make it easier for governments to enforce real-time monitoring of individuals, increasing the power imbalance between citizens and authorities. Decentralization, in Snowden's view, could serve as a counterbalance by empowering individuals over corporations and state entities.
Snowden’s calls for decentralization and scrutiny of AI surveillance resonate deeply within the blockchain and cryptocurrency communities. As technology continues to advance, so do concerns around privacy and autonomy. His speech underscores a broader discussion on the necessity of decentralized technologies to prevent concentration of power and preserve personal freedom. For both blockchain advocates and privacy defenders, Snowden’s insights serve as a reminder of the ethical considerations that should guide future technological development.
Meanwhile, the Near Protocol team is building a next-generation AI model with 1.4 trillion parameters.
