In a development that could shake the foundations of the cryptocurrency world, a new lawsuit has been filed in a U.S. federal court demanding the disclosure of the real identity behind the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto — the mysterious creator of Bitcoin. What’s more shocking is that, according to a former U.S. Homeland Security agent, Nakamoto is not one person but a team of four.
Attorney James Murphy, known online as MetaLawMan, is leading the legal push. His lawsuit, filed in the District of Columbia, cites the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and accuses the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) of concealing the identity of Bitcoin’s creators. Murphy is supported by Brian Field, a former Assistant U.S. Attorney and FOIA expert.
Dey There has been following this story closely as it unfolds at the intersection of national security, technology, and public transparency.
Bitcoin’s Creator Not Alone? Explosive Claims from a Former DHS Agent
At the heart of the case lies a 2019 claim by DHS Special Agent Rana Saoud, who reportedly stated that the agency had not only identified Satoshi Nakamoto but had also met with the individuals behind the name. According to Saoud, Nakamoto is actually a group of four developers who created Bitcoin in collaboration — a claim that, if true, would completely alter the narrative of decentralized digital currency.
Saoud claimed the team explained to DHS agents why and how they launched Bitcoin. However, the agency has never confirmed nor released the names of those involved. This lack of disclosure is what triggered Murphy’s lawsuit.
Murphy Demands Government Transparency
Murphy argues that the American public — and global crypto investors — have a right to know who built the technology that underpins more than $1 trillion in assets. In his legal filing, he stated:
“If the government does possess this information, it should not be hidden from the public. Bitcoin has become a global asset with massive financial impact. The mystery behind its creation is no longer just a tech curiosity — it’s a matter of public interest.”
Murphy has called on South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem and DHS officials to embrace transparency and disclose any relevant findings voluntarily.
Decentralization at Risk? The Crypto Community Reacts
While the crypto world thrives on speculation and myth, this lawsuit has struck a nerve. Bitcoin’s ethos is built on decentralization, and the idea that a known, traceable identity — or worse, a coordinated group — could be behind its creation worries many long-term holders.
Some suggest Agent Saoud may have exaggerated or misinterpreted information, while others believe the DHS could be withholding data for national security or regulatory reasons.
For many, the thought of unveiling Nakamoto risks not just ruining the mystery but shaking the very core of the Bitcoin movement.