## Local Tech Consultant Raises Alarm on Sextortion Scams

In Santa Barbara, **tech consultant Dax Gulje** has highlighted a growing concern among residents regarding a **sextortion scam** that is demanding **Bitcoin** payments. This alarming trend has led to numerous calls to the **Santa Barbara Police Department**, as victims find themselves targeted by scammers threatening to expose sensitive information unless a ransom is paid in cryptocurrency.

### What is Sextortion?
Sextortion is a form of **online blackmail** where perpetrators use compromising photos or information to extort money from their victims. The rise of this scam is particularly concerning in the digital age, where personal data is often shared online without adequate protection.

### The Role of Bitcoin in Scams
Bitcoin, known for its **anonymity and ease of transfer**, has become a popular payment method for scammers. Gulje emphasizes the importance of awareness and caution when dealing with unsolicited communications, especially those that involve financial transactions.

### Protect Yourself
Residents are urged to:
- Be **vigilant** about their online presence.
- Report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
- Avoid engaging with unknown senders that demand payment in Bitcoin or any other cryptocurrency.

Stay informed and protect yourself from potential scams that exploit both personal vulnerabilities and the appeal of cryptocurrency.

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – Local Tech consultant Dax Gulje wasn't surprised to learn Santa Barbara Police were getting calls about a scam demanding

Beware of Sextortion Scams: Tech Expert Warns of Bitcoin Demands

# Samson Mow's Bold Prediction for Bitcoin in 2025

Samson Mow, the vocal **supporter** and CEO of the Bitcoin adoption-focused company **JAN3**, recently shared his ambitious predictions for Bitcoin in a tweet, highlighting expectations for a significant price surge.

## Bitcoin to $1 Million in 2025

Mow forecasts that the world's leading cryptocurrency, **Bitcoin**, is set to **skyrocket to $1 million** in 2025. He also anticipates that **three more nation-states** will adopt a Bitcoin strategy, with at least one located in **Asia**, following **El Salvador's** lead. Though he did not specify which countries, he believes JAN3 will help engage **10 new countries** in adopting Bitcoin.

In addition to the price surge, Mow predicts that **MicroStrategy's** stock will reach **$2,000 per share** and that **Tether's USDT stablecoin** will surpass others in market capitalization. Furthermore, he expects a complete reversal of **cryptocurrency regulations** in Europe.

“I could be wrong, but I will be right,” Mow concluded in his New Year message.

## MicroStrategy's Impressive Bitcoin Yield

On December 31, **Michael Saylor**, the executive chairman of MicroStrategy, tweeted that his company's treasury operations yielded a **47.8% return** for shareholders, amounting to **120,600 BTC**. This translates to a staggering **$11.6 billion** at an approximate Bitcoin price of **$96,000** during that quarter.

Currently, Bitcoin has seen a **2.5% drop**, falling from **$95,835** to **$93,097** per coin. This correction is linked to **FUD** (fear, uncertainty, doubt) surrounding Tether's USDT in Europe, as new legislation raises concerns about its legality. Influencers, including Mow, are actively refuting these speculations.

Bitcoin to Hit $1 Million in 2025, Samson Mow Predicts, Here's Catch

Samson Mow's Bold Prediction: Bitcoin to Reach $1 Million by 2025!

Thanks to the efforts of hardworking Bitcoin advocates, **Bitcoin circular economies** are beginning to grow in **Suriname**.

These economies, the first and most well-known of which is **[Bitcoin Beach](https://www.forbes.com/sites/tatianakoffman/2020/07/14/this-el-salvador-village-adopts-bitcoin-as-money/)** in El Zonte, El Salvador, are small-scale jurisdictions where **Bitcoin** is commonly used as currency among residents and merchants. They often include a Bitcoin education center and are led by respected locals.

Suriname has recently gained attention due to its **pro-Bitcoin presidential candidate Maya Parbhoe**, who is advocating for the adoption of Bitcoin. Currently, there are two Bitcoin circular economies in the country: **Bitcoin Sranan** and **Bitcoin Alfonsdorp**.

In both locations, residents are learning how to make and accept payments in Bitcoin, using it as a **savings technology** amidst soaring **inflation rates** as high as **59%** in recent years.

## Bitcoin Sranan
Founded in the capital, **Paramaribo**, in 2021 by Parbhoe after witnessing the impact of Bitcoin in El Salvador, **Bitcoin Sranan** aims to educate locals. **Terence Coronel**, a dedicated local, has taken charge of this initiative. He spends his days educating community members using the **[Mi Primer Bitcoin](https://github.com/MyFirstBitcoin)** curriculum and onboarding merchants.

Coronel shares his approach: “I’m here to let you know that you can accept money through Bitcoin instead of just with bank transfers.” He assists interested individuals in downloading the **Blink Wallet**, a Bitcoin wallet for payments via the **[Lightning Network](https://www.forbes.com/sites/digital-assets/2023/04/27/bitcoins-lightning-network-what-it-is-and-how-it-works/)**, and conducts test transactions to familiarize them with the process.

Despite challenges, including getting locals to commit to a **10-week course** on Bitcoin, Coronel has successfully onboarded **110 merchants**, many of whom express gratitude for the support they receive through Bitcoin transactions.

## Bitcoin Alfonsdorp
Inspired by his experience at the Bitcoin Sranan education center, **Terence Karijondomo** established a Bitcoin education initiative in **Alfonsdorp**. A technically-minded indigenous citizen, he aims to teach Bitcoin as a gateway to imparting essential ICT skills. 

Karijondomo emphasizes the importance of educating the younger generation about Bitcoin to prevent them from falling into negative paths. He is also aware of the skepticism surrounding Bitcoin due to previous scams that have affected many in Suriname.

## Tailoring Bitcoin Education To The Local Context
A local Bitcoin enthusiast, known as **NOMAD**, highlights the need for tailored Bitcoin education in Suriname. He suggests using popular local forms of entertainment, like **cabarets**, to introduce Bitcoin concepts in relatable and engaging ways.

NOMAD stresses that while some methods that worked in El Zonte might be applicable, a significant portion of the education must be customized for Suriname's unique context. 

Suriname's journey towards embracing Bitcoin reflects a growing desire for financial autonomy and resilience in the face of economic challenges, showcasing the potential of **Bitcoin circular economies** to transform lives and communities.

Thanks to the efforts of hardworking Bitcoin advocates, Bitcoin circular economies are beginning to grow in Suriname.

Bitcoin Circular Economies Flourish in Suriname: A New Hope for Financial Freedom

### MicroStrategy's Bold Bitcoin Strategy
A significant factor behind **MicroStrategy's** (MSTR -4.40%) stellar performance in 2024 is its **bullish stance on Bitcoin**. The company is not just a believer in cryptocurrency; it's planning to **raise $42 billion** over the next three years to increase its Bitcoin reserves.

### Unmatched Bitcoin Holdings
As of December 31, **MicroStrategy** holds an impressive **446,400 Bitcoin**, dwarfing its nearest competitor, **Marathon Digital**, which has only **40,435 Bitcoin**. Even **Tesla**, the largest non-mining company in terms of Bitcoin holdings, trails far behind with just **9,720 Bitcoin**. **Elon Musk**, Tesla's CEO, has previously shown interest in cryptocurrencies, enhancing the visibility of Bitcoin.

However, many companies hesitate to hold substantial amounts of crypto due to its inherent volatility. Despite **MicroStrategy's** successful strategy in 2024, where its share price surged **370%**, the unpredictable nature of Bitcoin, influenced by factors like government regulations and market sentiment, poses risks.

### Insights into MicroStrategy's Strategy
**MicroStrategy** is not merely holding Bitcoin for diversification; it has essentially transformed into a **Bitcoin holding company**. Co-founder **Michael Saylor** is a prominent advocate for Bitcoin, stating, "We'll just keep buying the top forever, every day is a good day to buy Bitcoin." While the company's software business is underperforming, it is the rising value of Bitcoin that has propelled **MicroStrategy's** stock gains.

### Investment Considerations
For those bullish on Bitcoin, investing in **MicroStrategy** could be appealing. However, others might find it too risky due to the significant volatility associated with holding such a large Bitcoin stash. With a market cap of about **$75 billion** but generating less than **$500 million** in annual revenue, **MicroStrategy's** valuation appears disconnected from its fundamentals, making it a speculative investment suited for high-risk tolerances. 

Investors should weigh the risks of investing in **MicroStrategy** against their confidence in Bitcoin's future performance before making a decision.

A big reason MicroStrategy (MSTR -4.40%) was such a hot stock in 2024 is its bullish position on Bitcoin. The company is such a big believer in crypto that it's planning to raise $42 billion in capital during the next three years for the purpose of adding to its tally.

MicroStrategy: The Titan of Bitcoin Holdings and What It Means for Investors

## Bitcoin Faces Major Support Loss
As **2024** comes to a close, Bitcoin's (BTC) price performance is raising concerns among investors. The cryptocurrency has lost its crucial support at the **50 EMA**, a key level essential for maintaining bullish momentum. This breakdown could indicate a significant shift in **market sentiment**, paving the way for potential declines as **2025** approaches.

The loss of the **50 EMA** could lead to increased selling pressure, especially if traders anticipate a continuation of the downtrend. The next critical support levels to watch are around **$76,160** (200 EMA) and the psychological barrier at **$85,457**. If Bitcoin fails to stabilize at these levels, we could see even sharper declines in the first quarter of **2025**.

Recent trading session volume profiles suggest a decline in market activity, making Bitcoin increasingly vulnerable. A recovery to retest the **50 EMA** seems unlikely without strong buying pressure. However, if bulls manage to push Bitcoin back above the **50 EMA** in the coming days, it might signal a brief recovery and restore some market confidence.

Bearish momentum may still persist, as indicated by the **Relative Strength Index (RSI)**, which is trending lower but remains in the neutral zone. The current lack of robust institutional or retail demand keeps the outlook cautious for Bitcoin in **2025**. A strong catalyst, such as a technical recovery above **$96,472**, macroeconomic changes, or renewed institutional interest, is needed to avert further losses.

## Shiba Inu (SHIB) Hits Critical Level
In other news, **Shiba Inu (SHIB)** has touched the **200 EMA**, a critical support threshold that could mark a turning point in its market performance. Despite support levels often presenting opportunities for rebounds, reaching the **200 EMA** is concerning, as past instances have frequently indicated momentum shifts and the potential for severe corrections.

SHIB has struggled toward the end of **2024**, with bulls finding it hard to regain control. The move down to the **200 EMA** suggests vulnerability due to prolonged weak demand and selling pressure. Although a recovery from this level is possible, it will require significant buying pressure and renewed market interest.

Declining activity in volume profiles further emphasizes traders' lack of confidence. The **RSI** has fallen into oversold territory, but oversold conditions do not guarantee a reversal, especially in an unclear overall market environment. If SHIB fails to maintain the **200 EMA** as support, psychological zones around **$0.000020** and **$0.000018** will come into focus. A breakdown beneath these levels could escalate losses and push SHIB into a bearish trend early in **2025**.

## XRP Struggles to Hold Above $2
**XRP** is also facing challenges, struggling to maintain the critical **$2** support level as we close out **2024**. Currently hovering around **$2.03**, XRP's inability to recover above this psychological barrier indicates a potential shift in market sentiment as the new year approaches.

Historically, the **$2** mark has been pivotal for XRP, especially following its impressive surge earlier this year. However, its current struggles suggest increasing bearish pressure, as both **RSI** and declining volume indicate weakening momentum. XRP is nearing its **50 EMA**, marking the first significant support level since its rally began. If this level is defended, bulls may find optimism, but a breakdown could trigger a larger retracement toward **$1.80** or even **$1.50**.

As we enter **2025**, XRP's trajectory will be significantly influenced by overall market conditions and investor sentiment. Traders should monitor XRP's performance around **$2** and its interaction with the **50 EMA** closely, as this year is expected to be crucial for its future direction.

Bitcoin (BTC) Loses Support: 2025 to Begin With Crash? Shiba Inu (SHIB) Hits Critical Level, XRP Struggles to Hold Above $2

Is Bitcoin's Support Crumbling? What This Means for 2025 and Beyond

In November of last year, **Bitcoin** was thrust into the media spotlight following Donald Trump's presidential election win. Major news outlets such as **Forbes**, **Fortune**, and **The New York Times** reported that the cryptocurrency was **"skyrocketing."** By December, Bitcoin had surpassed **$100,000** for the first time, eliciting mixed reactions from the financial community ranging from excitement to skepticism.

### Insights from Bitcoin Advocate Bradley Chambers
Chattanooga native **Bradley Chambers**, who considers himself a well-informed advocate rather than an expert, has dedicated over **1,000 hours** to studying Bitcoin. He believes it could be one of the most important technologies of our time and compares skepticism about Bitcoin to doubts that preceded the **internet revolution**.

### The Appeal of Bitcoin
Chambers got involved with Bitcoin while listening to a podcast. He realized its potential, especially during a time of massive money printing and inflation, prompting him to explore how to preserve his wealth. He emphasizes that Bitcoin represents **digital money**, native to the internet, which can be transferred globally at minimal cost.

### Understanding Bitcoin Beyond Mainstream Media
To genuinely grasp Bitcoin's potential, Chambers advises going beyond mainstream media narratives, which often highlight its **volatility** and declare it **"dead"**. Instead, he encourages individuals to read books and listen to podcasts to build their understanding. He notes that like the **1990s internet**, Bitcoin requires a new generation of experts to explain its significance.

### How Bitcoin Works
Bitcoin operates as a **protocol for money** without a central authority. It relies on **miners** who validate transactions and **nodes** that maintain the network. Unlike other cryptocurrencies that may have centralized control or pre-mined supplies, Bitcoin’s **21 million coin limit** is enforced by its code, making it a **finite resource**.

### Debunking Myths: Bitcoin as a Scam
Chambers addresses the misconception that Bitcoin is a **Ponzi scheme**. He argues that this perception stems from media narratives reminiscent of the **dot-com bust**. He believes that just as companies eventually adapted to the internet, they will need to develop a **Bitcoin strategy** to survive in the future.

### Accessibility of Bitcoin
For those wondering if it’s too late to invest in Bitcoin, Chambers reassures that anyone can buy Bitcoin easily. He points out that in many parts of the world, it serves as a critical financial resource, especially where trustworthy banking systems are lacking. 

### Suggested Reading and Listening
**Books:**  
- *The Bitcoin Standard* by Aifedean Ammous  
- *Gradually Then Suddenly* by Parker A. Lewis  
- *Broken Money* by Lyn Alden  
- *What is Money* by Michael J. Saylor and Robert Breedlove  

**Podcasts:**  
- *Onramp Media*  
- *Coin Stories*  
- *The Bitcoin Frontier*  

Chambers concludes that Bitcoin is a revolutionary technology, with profound implications for the economy and finance, asserting that it is the most important technology of the next **1,000 years**.

In November of last year, Donald Trump was declared the winner of the presidential election, and immediately Bitcoin was in the media spotlight.

Is It Too Late to Invest in Bitcoin? Here's What You Need to Know

Bitcoin halving, all-time highs, and **altcoin season**—is this the secret recipe for a new bull run? The **recent Bitcoin halving** in May has reduced its issuance rate, creating **supply scarcity** and leading to a surge in its price, surpassing the **$100k mark**. However, the expected altcoin rally is noticeably absent, raising questions about the traditional patterns we’ve come to expect.

## How Is This Cycle Any Different?
Every market cycle typically follows four stages: **accumulation**, **markup**, **distribution**, and **markdown**. While these stages are predictable, the timing for trading strategies remains elusive. The key difference this time is the **influx of institutional capital**, which has transformed Bitcoin into a preferred asset for institutions, aided by the rise of **crypto ETFs**. This involvement stabilizes Bitcoin's price but may hinder altcoins' performance due to reduced volatility that often redirects capital flow.

![Bitcoin](https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/imageserve/67746e2d455987eb8b9383b3/Bitcoin/960x0.jpg?fit=scale)

## Macros: Liquidity And Regulations
**Liquidity** is crucial in finance. With **US interest rates** recently at high levels, capital remains drawn to risk-free assets. Conversely, lower rates typically stimulate bull runs by encouraging investments in riskier assets like crypto. The recent regulatory environment, particularly under Trump's administration, has also sparked a **positive sentiment** in the crypto realm, hinting at a potential **altcoin supercycle** in 2025.

## “Wen altszn”
Historically, altcoin rallies follow Bitcoin's major price movements, yet predicting their magnitude or timing remains challenging. Experts suggest that while we may not see a dramatic altcoin season like in 2021, significant increases in altcoin values are expected as Bitcoin continues to rise. Key indicators of an upcoming altcoin season include:
- Rapid price growth with altcoins outperforming BTC.
- **Altcoin dominance** rising significantly, akin to May 2021.
- High trading volumes driven by **FOMO** and risk-on sentiment.

## Narrative Outperformance
The upcoming altcoin season could differ from past experiences, with sectors like **AI** and **real-world assets** gaining traction. Institutional adoption is legitimizing tokenization in finance, making it a fundamental aspect of the crypto landscape.

## How To Prepare For The Altcoin Season?
As we approach 2025, consider the following:
- Use Bitcoin dominance to time your trades effectively.
- Focus on projects with strong fundamentals that align with emerging trends.
- Be patient; corrections are healthy and signal consolidation.

## Altcoin Season 2025
The crypto market is evolving, with **new narratives** becoming influential. The impact of macroeconomic factors and institutional adoption is greater than in previous cycles. This leads to the question: Will altcoin dynamics shift this time? The answer lies in the timing and nature of the upcoming altcoin season. Buckle up for an exciting ride ahead!

The growing presence of institutional investors in the Bitcoin market has reshaped its dynamics. But "wen altszn?"

Is Altcoin Season Coming in 2025? Uncovering the Crypto Bull Run Dynamics

### Elon Musk's Mysterious Username Change

Elon Musk adopted the moniker **“Kekius Maximus”** on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, igniting speculation among his **210 million followers**. This new handle is a curious blend of an **alt-right symbol**, a **memecoin**, and the lead character from the movie **“Gladiator.”**

### Profile Picture Shift

In a move that has become typical of Musk, he also changed his profile picture to one featuring **Pepe the Frog**, a cartoon character donned in ancient Roman attire, holding a video game joystick.

### Immediate Ripple Effects in Cryptocurrency

The change sent shockwaves through the **cryptocurrency world**, causing the value of a memecoin with the same name to **skyrocket by over 1600%**. Internet sleuths quickly began searching for answers regarding whether this was a mere joke, a hidden message, or another attempt to influence the crypto markets.

### The Significance of 'Kekius Maximus'

The name **“Kekius Maximus”** seems to combine **“Maximus Decimus Meridius,”** a character portrayed by **Russell Crowe** in the 2000 film **“Gladiator,”** and **“kek,”** an expression popular among the alt-right used similarly to **“LOL.”** 

### Pepe the Frog's Controversial Background

Pepe the Frog, originally from the **“Boy’s Club”** comic series, has gained notoriety for its association with the alt-right and white supremacy, with the **Anti-Defamation League** labeling it a **“hate symbol.”** However, the ADL acknowledges that most uses of Pepe are non-bigoted.

### Teaser and Gaming Reference

Before the handle change, Musk teased with a post stating, **“Kekius Maximus will soon reach level 80 in hardcore PoE,”** referring to the popular video game **“Path of Exile 2.”** Musk is known to be a fan of the game, calling it a **“hall-of-famer.”**

### Market Impact

Following Musk's handle change, the **memecoin Kekius Maximus** saw a staggering **increase of over 1600%** in value, trading at less than one-fifth of a dollar around **22:00 GMT**. Historically, Musk’s commentary on social media has caused crypto prices to fluctuate dramatically, though it’s unclear if he has any direct involvement with this specific memecoin.

### Influence and Criticism

Musk's account has become increasingly influential, often criticized for spreading misinformation since his acquisition of the platform for **$44 billion** in 2022.

Musk also replaced his profile picture with one of "Pepe the Frog," a cartoon character associated with the far right.

Beware of Sextortion Scams: Tech Expert Warns of Bitcoin Demands

Summary:

Local Tech Consultant Raises Alarm on Sextortion Scams

What is Sextortion?

The Role of Bitcoin in Scams

Protect Yourself

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Other Latest News

Samson Mow's Bold Prediction: Bitcoin to Reach $1 Million by 2025!

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Is Bitcoin's Support Crumbling? What This Means for 2025 and Beyond

Is It Too Late to Invest in Bitcoin? Here's What You Need to Know

Is Altcoin Season Coming in 2025? Uncovering the Crypto Bull Run Dynamics

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Samson Mow's Bold Prediction: Bitcoin to Reach $1 Million by 2025!

Bitcoin Circular Economies Flourish in Suriname: A New Hope for Financial Freedom

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Is Bitcoin's Support Crumbling? What This Means for 2025 and Beyond

Is It Too Late to Invest in Bitcoin? Here's What You Need to Know

Is Altcoin Season Coming in 2025? Uncovering the Crypto Bull Run Dynamics

Elon Musk's 'Kekius Maximus' Username Change Sparks 1600% Surge in Memecoin – What Does It Mean?