Ethereum Co-Founder Vitalik Buterin Bashes CoinDesk And Boycotts Its Consensus Conference

Buterin is boycotting the popular Consensus conference event hosted by CoinDesk while encouraging others to do the same.
By Partyush Goyal
Updated May 13, 2024

Vitalik Buterin, Ethereum co-founder took a blow at the blockchain and cryptocurrency news channel, CoinDesk for posting the link to a fraudulent website in its article on OmiseGo cryptocurrency. Furthermore, Buterin is boycotting the popular Consensus conference event hosted by CoinDesk while encouraging others to do the same.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Vitalik strikes CoinDesk with “recklessly complicit in enabling giveaway scams”

On Thursday, Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin posted on Twitter that he is boycotting the Consensus 2018 conference to be held in May by CoinDesk while encouraging others to do the same. He further stated that the blockchain and cryptocurrency media channel is “recklessly complicit in enabling giveaway scams.”

Buterin was driven to make the tweet because of CoinDesk’s blog on OMG cryptocurrency regarding its surge in prices in the wake of its Bithumb listing, where he points out, contains a direct link to a fraudulent website. Since then, the link has been removed from the article and a correction note has been added at the bottom stating that CoinDesk regrets the error:

“This article has been updated to remove a link to a fraudulent website that was misrepresenting OmiseGo in an effort to scam users.”

Buterin just didn’t stop there, he further tweeted that CoinDesk’s “coverage of EIP 999 was terrible.” He mentioned that the media channel “published a highly sensationalist article claiming the chain would split, when it was very clear that EIP 999 was *very far* from acceptance.”

Also, read: Binance CEO In Trouble: Changpeng Zhao Sued By Sequoia Capital Over Fallen Deal

CoinDesk claims a reporting error

In response to Vitalik’s tweet, the CEO of CoinDesk, Kevin Worth said in a statement to Business Insider:

“We are disappointed to learn of Vitalik’s tweet today regarding a CoinDesk reporting error, for which we apologize. We strive to maintain the highest level of unbiased, ethical journalism in order to provide the best possible coverage of the blockchain industry.”

The Consensus conference of CoinDesk is a popular event that is attended by about thousands of people and hundreds of speakers from the crypto market. This time the event would also include Jack Dorsey and Amber Baldet along with many regulators and politicians as well.

For not attending the Consensus conference, Buterin further commented that the cost to attend the conference is too high: “the conference costs $2-3k to attend. I refuse to personally contribute to that level of rent-seeking.”

With the scams rampant in the crypto industry, this kind of behavior certainly calls for a more cautious approach so not to harm the interests of the investors.

Do you think Vitalik was right to bash CoinDesk? Share your thoughts with us!

Advertisement
Partyush Goyal
A computer science engineer, I have been adamantly following the blockchain and cryptocurrency industry for the past 2 years. A crypto enthusiast and hardcore blockchain follower. Reach out to him at [email protected]
Why trust CoinGape: CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights to our readers. Our journalists and analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.