Edward Snowden, arguably the most renowned whistleblower from the US in recent times, set this auction in motion. an auction for an NFT artwork titled “Stay Free” which sold for more than $5.4 million.
The creative work showcases a depiction of Snowden crafted utilizing an amalgam of the court decision documents related to the NSA’s extensive surveillance case. Initially captured by British photographer Platon, the portrait was authorized for the NFT's creation.
Snowden, who had been an NSA contractor, blew the whistle by revealing documents that shed light on numerous extensive surveillance projects operated by the NSA and international intelligence agencies within the U.S., infringing upon the personal privacy of countless citizens and foreigners.
'Stay Free' was acquired by PleasrDao for a significant 2,224 ETH, which translates to over $5.4 million, on April 16. This DAO consists of NFT art enthusiasts who have previously bought notable NFT pieces, including a work by celebrated Taiwanese digital artist Pplpleaser, who eventually became an honorary member.
Press Freedom as the Top Beneficiary
Since his whistleblowing on the NSA, Snowden has been labeled as one of the most hotly debated figures globally, with the US government deeming him a traitor, forcing him to escape to Russia where he gained Russian citizenship in 2020.
Snowden established himself as a prominent defender of press freedom and privacy rights worldwide, drawing the backing of millions globally who continue to rally for his pardon ever since his exile.
The entire proceeds from the NFT auction were donated to the Freedom of the Press Foundation, a charitable organization dedicated to upholding free speech and press freedom worldwide.
The executive director of the Freedom of the Press Foundation, Trevor Timm, shared thoughts on Snowden’s donation, stating:
“We appreciate the ongoing relevance of Snowden’s whistleblowing, which is perhaps no better underscored than by the initial judgment regarding the programs he brought to light. We are eagerly planning to utilize this auction's proceeds to further our mission in advancing and perfecting technology that protects journalists and their informants, like SecureDrop, our open-source whistleblowing platform.”
Cryptocurrency and Blockchain's Part in Safeguarding Privacy
One might argue that the centralization drawbacks largely impact privacy, illustrated by the emergence of data giants like Facebook and Google, with the Cambridge Analytica scandal being a prime example.
Although not every cryptocurrency ensures full anonymity, their application of decentralized blockchains offers users a higher level of anonymity compared to conventional centralized platforms, which must adhere to local mandates as determined by their operators.
Snowden has critiqued cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin for shortcomings in privacy and scalability but expressed favor towards projects like Zcash for their robust privacy features, appealing to users wary of exposing their financial data.
Rooted in advanced cryptography, blockchain and cryptocurrency employ decentralized storage, development, and governance principles.
Snowden commented on cryptography’s vital function in the privacy crusade, stating:
“Upcoming cryptographic applications could be crucial in empowering our rights. This auction will further the development of essential privacy-(preserving) encryption methods that defend press freedom and public benefit.”
The notion of privacy as once envisioned a few decades back is arguably lost. Without persistent efforts to reclaim civil liberties, this progression towards increased state authority will likely persist.
