Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has raised concerns over X’s new real-time location-sharing feature, warning that it could expose millions of users especially those in the crypto industry to heightened privacy and security risks. His comments arrive as digital-asset holders, developers, and cybersecurity experts flag potential vulnerabilities related to geolocation data being publicly or inadvertently shared.
The new feature automatically attaches a user’s approximate location to posts unless manually disabled, making physical locations more visible than before. Crypto community members quickly reacted to the update, noting the increased risks of harassment, theft, doxxing, and targeted crimes particularly for high-profile traders, developers, and investors.
Buterin called the feature “risky and unnecessary,” emphasizing that crypto users, who often handle valuable assets, cannot afford exposure that links their identity or wallet activity to a physical place. Digital privacy, he argues, should be a foundational concern for anyone interacting with decentralized technologies.
Why Crypto Users Are Alarmed by X’s Location Update
Cryptocurrency has always been intertwined with privacy. Public blockchains allow transparent financial activity but rely on pseudonyms for user protections. When social media platforms begin exposing location data, it introduces risks that extend far beyond digital vulnerabilities.
1. Risk of Physical Targeting
Crypto theft is no longer limited to online exploits. Criminals have increasingly resorted to physical attacks using threats, kidnapping, or coercion to force private key access. Publicly visible locations could make high-value individuals easier to track.
2. Potential for Doxxing
Once real-world location data is tied to online identities, malicious actors may link wallet activity, public posts, or personal details to a real person destroying anonymity.
3. Compromise of Operational Security (OpSec)
Cryptocurrency traders, security researchers, and developers maintain strict OpSec practices. A location-sharing default undermines these protocols by automatically revealing details even careful users may miss.
4. Increased Phishing and Social Engineering Exposure
Knowing where someone is especially during conferences, meetups, or travel can give scammers powerful leverage for tailored fraud attempts.
For these reasons, many in the crypto community argue that location sharing should always be opt-in, not automatically activated.
Vitalik Buterin’s Stance on Privacy
Vitalik Buterin has consistently advocated for technological privacy, arguing that decentralization only works when users have the ability to protect their identities and personal data. He has often spoken about the need for privacy-preserving cryptography, such as zk-SNARKs and stealth addresses, to strengthen user protections in the Ethereum ecosystem.
In his latest comments, Buterin warned that mainstream platforms like X adopting intrusive features could unintentionally undermine the practices of those who rely heavily on privacy for safety. He emphasized that digital-asset holders should always assume they are targets and adjust their online behavior accordingly.
X Faces Growing Criticism Over User Safety Features
X has introduced multiple features in recent months aimed at improving engagement and personalization. However, several updates especially those related to location, identity verification, and data collection have sparked pushback.
Privacy experts argue that while location tagging may improve user experience or help with content relevance, the platform has not provided adequate safeguards for users who are vulnerable due to wealth, influence, or political position.
For crypto users, whose assets can be accessed instantly if compromised, the stakes are significantly higher.
FAQs
Q1: What did Vitalik Buterin say about X’s new feature?
He said the platform’s real-time location-sharing option is “risky” and could endanger crypto users by exposing sensitive information.
Q2: Why are crypto users worried about location sharing?
Because linking physical locations to online identities increases risks of theft, targeting, and doxxing.
Q3: Is the location feature enabled by default?
In many cases, the setting may turn on automatically or prompt users to share without clear warnings, increasing accidental exposure.
Q4: Can crypto investors disable the feature?
Yes, users can manually turn off location sharing in X’s privacy settings.
Q5: Why does location sharing pose physical security risks?
Attackers can track routines, identify high-value individuals, and plan targeted crimes based on revealed locations.
Q6: How can crypto users protect themselves?
Disable location services, use alternative privacy-focused platforms, and avoid posting real-time travel or personal details.