"Submarine Swaps employ hash time-locked contracts (HTLCs), which in layperson’s terms, enable two transactions (both sides of the swap) to happen simultaneously by linking them together cryptographically inside of a smart contract. Using this technology, there is no way for one exchange to occur without the other occurring at the same moment.
This is the most trustless solution that exists for moving sats between Bitcoin layers."-- Frank Corva
Trustless bridges play a crucial role in connecting Bitcoin's various layers, with Boltz emerging as a key player in this space. As a non-custodial exchange service, Boltz is transforming the way Bitcoin moves between the base chain, Lightning Network, and Liquid. The service utilizes atomic swaps and submarine swaps to facilitate efficient and seamless cross-layer transfers, eliminating the need for intermediaries. These innovations are significant for the future of Bitcoin's layered ecosystem, potentially enhancing interoperability, liquidity, and overall functionality across different Bitcoin layers. The implications of these advancements could lead to a more integrated and versatile Bitcoin network, improving user experience and expanding the cryptocurrency's utility in various applications.
Here is the original article:
BETWEEN BITCOIN LAYERS: BOLTZ BUILDS TRUSTLESS TRANSFERS
Boltz co-founder and CEO Kilian and his team have created an easy-to-use, non-custodial solution for moving bitcoin between the base chain, Lightning and Liquid.
https://bitcoinmagazine.com/business/between-bitcoin-layers-boltz-builds-trustless-transfers
"Whatever your setup is for storing the majority of your bitcoin - be it hot or cold, online or offline, software or hardware - if you can access and spend it in a matter of minutes, so can a robber armed with a $5 wrench.
The price for convenience is risk. This is not merely a theoretical scenario; I have cataloged over 50 physical attacks against bitcoin users, including myself!" -- Jameson Lopp
Bitcoin holders face a unique security challenge: protecting their assets from physical threats, including the infamous "$5 wrench attack."
This comprehensive guide, inspired by Jameson Lopp's work, outlines practical strategies for safeguarding cryptocurrencies against coercion and theft.
The article emphasizes the importance of privacy, multi-signature setups, and geographic distribution of keys as foundational elements of a robust security plan.
It explores various tactics, from basic precautions like maintaining a low profile to more advanced measures such as creating decoy wallets and implementing duress passwords.
The guide also delves into the concept of "plausible deniability" and discusses the potential benefits of holding cryptocurrencies through corporate structures.
By adopting a multi-layered approach to security, Bitcoin owners can significantly reduce their vulnerability to physical attacks and ensure the long-term safety of their digital assets.
Here is the original article:
How to protect your bitcoin from $5 wrench attacks
https://blog.casa.io/how-to-protect-your-bitcoin-from-5-wrench-attacks/
THE FEDERAL RESERVE, CUSTODIA BANK, AND THE BATTLE FOR SOVEREIGNTY
A Review of the Amicus Briefs in the Custodia Case.
The legal battle between Custodia Bank and the Federal Reserve has drawn significant attention, with various amicus briefs filed in support of Custodia's appeal.
These briefs present a range of arguments against the Federal Reserve's actions, encompassing constitutional concerns, statutory interpretation issues, and potential impacts on financial innovation.
The overarching argument contends that an unchecked and unaccountable Federal Reserve system lacks constitutional support and could be detrimental to the nation's interests.
As this case progresses, the arguments outlined in these briefs are expected to have a substantial influence on the future landscape of financial regulation and state sovereignty within the United States.
The outcome of this legal dispute could set important precedents for the balance of power between federal financial institutions and state-chartered banks.
The Lightning Network has the potential to be the catalyst for Bitcoin's mass adoption and financial innovation.
The ambitious plans of the Lightning Alliance, coupled with the revolutionary potential of Taproot assets, are set to transform the Bitcoin ecosystem.
Interoperability with lightning as the universal language of Bitcoin, along with cutting-edge protocols, are paving the way for a new era in decentralized finance. These exciting new tools are ushering in a bold future for the cryptocurrency landscape.
"Joltz is one company that is actively building the necessary infrastructure to support this interoperability. By developing an SDK that allows wallets to integrate with swap providers easily, Joltz aims to streamline the process of connecting various sidechains with the Lightning Network.
Highlighting the efficiency gains from using Lightning as a central hub." --Bitcoin Magazine
Here is the original Article: "Bitcoin Lightning Alliance to Accelerate Adoption Using New Asset Protocol"
Peer-to-Peer Systems
Within a decade, P2P has proven to be a technology that enables innovative new services and is used by millions of people every day.
https://cacm.acm.org/research/peer-to-peer-systems/#R9
In October 2010, an article was published in the Communications of the ACM, revisiting the topic of Peer-to-Peer (P2P) systems and their revolutionary impact on the digital landscape.
The article noted that within just over a decade since their inception, P2P systems had become a ubiquitous technology, enabling millions of people to share resources and communicate directly without the need for a centralized authority.
These systems had given rise to innovative new services and had transformed the way people interacted with digital content.
The article predicted that P2P would continue to evolve and play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of the internet and its applications.
Why going cashless has turned Sweden from one of the safest countries into a high-crime nation
Going cashless in Sweden has led to a spike in crime, particularly in the form of theft and fraud, due to the reliance on digital transactions that can be easily hacked or manipulated.
The elderly and vulnerable populations have also suffered, feeling isolated and vulnerable without physical cash.
The push for a cashless society has been driven by a few large corporations, financial institutions and governments, raising concerns about monopolization and erosion of privacy rights.
Furthermore, the lack of physical cash has enabled increased government surveillance and control over financial transactions, raising fears of potential misuse.
Ultimately, the unintended consequences of going cashless have been significant and far-reaching, and the push for a cashless society must be reevaluated to ensure that the potential benefits are outweighed by the potential risks and negative impacts.
Microsoft removes documentation for switching to a local account in Windows 11
But most Microsoft account sign-in workarounds for Windows 11 continue to work.
Microsoft's decision to remove the option to switch to a local account in Windows 11 could be seen as a move towards encouraging users to adopt their ecosystem and services.
By requiring a Microsoft account for installation, they are essentially forcing users to be part of their online world, just like AOL did in the past.
This move might be a way to generate more data and create a seamless experience for users, integrating them into Microsoft's services and products more deeply.
It's a strategic business decision, but it could also be seen as a restriction of user freedom, privacy, and choice.
You are still using Windows?
Louisiana Passes Bill To Defend Bitcoin Rights And Ban CBDCs
https://decentrasuze.substack.com/p/louisiana-passes-bill-to-defend-bitcoin
"China’s current ways to censor the Internet are to block connections from IP servers serving content and block protocol-level attempts, such as Tor, at specific points.
China is also incredibly aggressive in requesting Apple to do app store takedowns, which Apple regularly complies with.
In 2022, for example, China was responsible for more than 97% of apps taken down by Apple for different countries. [...] Finally, within the country, law enforcement has access to physical surveillance and registered IDs of everybody in China who has purchased a phone,
for example. Still, with all of this, and multiple regulatory notices and attempts to ban Bitcoin, China was not able to dent Bitcoin itself – which is humming along at a much better price level and activity level than the level of bans implemented by China." -- China Bitcoin Book
The resilience of Bitcoin, despite China's strict bans and regulatory crackdowns, is a remarkable phenomenon that has piqued the interest of many experts, including Roger Huang.
Huang's in-depth analysis of Bitcoin's ability to not only survive but thrive in the face of adversity has shed light on the robustness of decentralized technology.
The implications of Bitcoin's defiant stance against China's powerful government are far-reaching, and this analysis provides valuable insights into the future of decentralized systems, which continue to defy the odds.
Link to article "How Bitcoin Thrived Through China's Bans And Became Much Stronger"
Danish Regulator To Ban Unhosted Bitcoin (BTC) Wallets
Many industry stakeholders are preparing for the implementation of MiCA rules with Denmark set to ban unhosted Bitcoin wallets
https://coingape.com/danish-regulator-to-ban-unhosted-bitcoin-btc-wallets/
What could come to Curaçao
Choosing The Right Bitcoin Wallet: Payments vs. Savings
Discover the world of Bitcoin wallets and find the one that suits you best.
The Dark Side of Personalized Monetary Policy: How CBDCs Could Unleash a Tyranny of Economic Control
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/dark-side-personalized-monetary-policy-how-cbdcs-santiago--efzce
In the meantime, LATIN AMERICA'S LARGEST FINTECH BANK INTEGRATES BITCOIN LIGHTNING PAYMENTS
Nu's 100 million customers will now be able to transact using the Bitcoin Lightning Network.
LOCKBIT CLAIMS THE HACK OF THE US FEDERAL RESERVE
https://securityaffairs.com/164873/cyber-crime/lockbit-claims-hacked-us-federal-reserve.html
The Lockbit ransomware group announced that it had breached the US Federal Reserve and exfiltrated 33 TB of sensitive data.
A multitude of experts are doubting the sincerity of the criminal organization's declaration. The Federal Reserve is a prestigious target, and a data breach could have severe consequences. The majority believe that the group's announcement is merely a ploy to garner attention.
European Union floats encryption back-door legislation, postpones vote after backlash
EU chat control law proposes scanning your messages — even encrypted ones
The proposal, which is aimed at preventing child sexual abuse material, would essentially break encryption.
The longstanding battle between governments and encryption has been a perpetual clash, much like an unstoppable force colliding with an immovable object.
Ultimately, one side must yield, and it is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and attentive to the unfolding encryption debate in their respective regions, as the outcome holds significant implications for their technological freedoms.
Bitcoin's fiat price is exactly where it wants to be 
As a sovereign individual, it's crucial to prioritize your online security and privacy. WireGuard, a lightweight, easy-to-use, and blazingly fast VPN, should be an
essential component of your digital arsenal.
Unlike bloated and complex VPN solutions, WireGuard's minimalist approach ensures a seamless user experience while providing top-notch encryption and secure tunneling.
By integrating WireGuard into your stack, you'll be able to encrypt your internet traffic, safeguard your personal data, and maintain anonymity while browsing the web.
With its open-source nature and audited codebase, WireGuard offers unparalleled transparency and trustworthiness, allowing you to take back control of your online presence and protect your digital sovereignty.
In today's surveillance-heavy online environment, incorporating WireGuard into your toolkit is a prudent step towards reclaiming your privacy and securing your digital identity.
WireGuard: a simple yet fast VPN
Blinded Authentication Tokens in Mutiny
Mutiny's unique privacy-preserving approach to solving lightning addresses with fedimint and blind authentication tokens.
https://blog.mutinywallet.com/blinded-authentication/
Mutiny has an informative blog post on exactly how they managed to add privacy to LNURLs.
They use a Fedimint gateway and issue ecash to the user to redeem using their public key, but they go further by blinding the addresses themselves! The privacy aspect is looking less like a nice-to-have and more like a necessary part with the DoJ starting to crack down
State-of-the-art seed phrase backup.
For those who don't trust computers, an innovative mechanical product exists to create a seed phrase.
By following instructions, you print out and assemble paper components to generate a 12-word seed phrase without relying on any device.
Even more impressive is the method's ability to Shamir-split the seed phrase into 2-of-3 parts, which likely utilizes the SLIP-39 technique or something similar.
EU Council has withdrawn the vote on Chat Control
Lack of majority thanks to severe pushback puts the proposal on hold.
https://stackdiary.com/eu-council-has-withdrawn-the-vote-on-chat-control/
EU citizens remain vigilant and engaged in the debate over digital privacy and surveillance.