A new investigation by The New York Times has reignited one of the internet's biggest mysteries by suggesting that Adam Back could be Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonymous inventor of Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC).

NYT Report Sparks Fresh Satoshi Nakamoto Speculation

The report draws parallels between Back's early work in cryptography and Nakamoto's writings, pointing to similarities in language, technical ideas and timing.

It also notes that Back's online activity appears to overlap with the period when Nakamoto was active — and aligns with the creator's sudden disappearance after Bitcoin's white paper was published.

‘I'm Not Satoshi,' Back Says

Back quickly pushed back on the claims, taking to X to deny the theory.

"I'm not Satoshi," he wrote, adding that the conclusions were based on "confirmation bias."

He acknowledged his early involvement in cryptography and digital cash concepts but said that similarities in phrasing and ideas are common among experts in the field.

"A combination of coincidence and similar phrases from people with similar experience and interests," he said, dismissing the report's evidence.

Back also challenged the timeline claims, saying he was actively posting on forums during the period in question.

The Ultimate Mystery Still Unsolved

The identity of Nakamoto remains unknown more than a decade after Bitcoin's launch.

The figure is believed to control roughly 1 million Bitcoins, representing nearly 5% of the total supply.

Back also struck a lighter tone on X, joking that he actually doesn't own enough Bitcoin.

Not The First — And Likely Not The Last

Back is far from the first to be linked to identity. Figures like Dorian Nakamoto and Craig Wright have previously been named as, or claimed to be, Nakamoto, only for those assertions to be widely disputed or debunked.

Back himself has been mentioned in past theories and even testified against Wright's claims in court.

For many in the crypto community, the mystery is part of Bitcoin's strength. Back echoed that sentiment, saying he doesn't know who Satoshi is — and believes "it is good for Bitcoin."

Price Action: At the time of writing, Bitcoin was trading at $71,006.55, down 0.49% over the past 24 hours, according to Benzinga Pro.

Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

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