Peter Todd hides amid Satoshi claims in HBO documentary

Canadian cryptographer Peter Todd has been forced into hiding following the release of an HBO documentary titled Money Electric: The Bitcoin Mystery.

The documentary, which aired on October 9, ended by implying that Todd is the enigmatic creator of Bitcoin, known as “Satoshi Nakamoto.” 

Despite the film’s claims, Todd has consistently denied being Nakamoto and expressed concerns over his safety. 

In an interview with *Wired,* Todd stated he participated in the documentary under the impression it would focus on the history of Bitcoin rather than attempt to unmask its creator. 

He claims that filmmaker Cullen Hoback used speculative evidence to reach an erroneous conclusion.

Hoback’s documentary built its case on a history of Todd’s offhand jokes where he casually claimed, “I am Satoshi,” likened to the iconic line “I am Spartacus” from the 1960 film Spartacus.

In that movie, captured warriors claimed to be Spartacus as an act of solidarity. 

Todd argues that his statements were in a similar humorous vein, rather than genuine admissions.

Following the documentary’s release, Todd voiced serious concerns over the implications of being publicly identified as Satoshi Nakamoto. 

He noted the potential risks of falsely attributing great wealth to individuals who are not prepared for the threats of robbery or kidnapping. 

“Satoshi obviously didn’t want to be found, for good reasons,” Todd emphasised.

However, Hoback stands by his findings, stating that the documentary’s goal was to explore the mystery behind the anonymous figure who, as he puts it, “controls one-twentieth of the total supply of digital gold.” 

Despite the attention the documentary has garnered, many in the crypto community remain unconvinced by the alleged revelation.