Crypto lawyer sues U.S. DHS over potential meeting with Satoshi Nakamoto
DHS may hold clues to Nakamoto true identity
James Murphy, a lawyer specializing in cryptocurrency law, has filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), seeking the release of documents that could potentially reveal the identity of Bitcoin’s creator, Satoshi Nakamoto.
The lawsuit is based on a 2019 statement made by DHS Special Agent Rana Saoud during the OffshoreAlert Conference in Miami, where she claimed that DHS agents had met with several individuals allegedly involved in the creation of Bitcoin.
In her presentation, Saoud described how DHS agents flew to California and interviewed four individuals whom they believed had played a significant role in Bitcoin’s creation. The agents reportedly questioned them about their motivations and the ultimate purpose of the cryptocurrency.
DHS may hold clues to Nakamoto’s true identity
Murphy’s FOIA request seeks access to any related materials — including notes, emails, or records — from the alleged meeting that could shed light on the true identity of Satoshi Nakamoto.
Murphy, who says he has been a long-time investor in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, emphasized that he is particularly interested in official documentation that may confirm or disprove Saoud’s claims regarding the interviews.
While Saoud’s comments suggest DHS may have access to crucial information, Murphy acknowledged the possibility that the agents might have interviewed the wrong individuals or misidentified the people involved.
When filing the lawsuit, Murphy publicly called on Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to voluntarily release any relevant materials — and stated his intent to pursue the matter fully if the department resists.
As we wrote, over the weekend, the cryptocurrency industry celebrated a major milestone — the creator of Bitcoin turned 50. As BTC gained popularity, many people tried to claim his identity, but none succeeded. Satoshi Nakamoto remains an anonymous legend.
