Bitcoin.org Operator Warns Against Using Outdated Bitcoin Software

Despite Bitcoin.org providing Bitcoin Core software for download, its owner, Cobra, actively discourages users from downloading software from the site, advising them to use BitcoinCore.org instead. Bitcoin.org currently offers an outdated version of the software, while BitcoinCore.org provides the most up-to-date version, updated two weeks ago.

Bitcoin Software Download Warning Issued by Bitcoin.org Operator

Despite offering Bitcoin Core software for download, the operator of Bitcoin.org, known pseudonymously as Cobra, has issued a stern warning against obtaining the software from the website. Instead, users are directed to BitcoinCore.org for the most up-to-date and secure version of the software.

Outdated Software at Bitcoin.org

Currently, Bitcoin.org hosts version 25.0 of the Bitcoin Core software, which was last updated on May 26, 2023. This version is significantly outdated compared to the latest release, version 26.1, which was published on April 1, 2024, and is available at BitcoinCore.org.

Confusion Among Users

According to Cobra, many users mistakenly believe that Bitcoin.org is the "official" source for all things Bitcoin, including the official software download. This misconception stems from the website's prominence in the Bitcoin community and its long-standing presence in the industry.

However, Cobra emphasizes that Bitcoin.org should not be considered the official repository for Bitcoin software. "No matter how hard we try to educate users, many will naturally fall into the belief that Bitcoin.org is the 'official' site for everything Bitcoin and get their download from there," Cobra tweeted on April 15, 2024.

Concerns Over Outdated Information

The outdated software at Bitcoin.org poses several risks to users. Outdated software may contain unpatched security vulnerabilities that could compromise users' funds or private keys. Additionally, it may lack important features and enhancements that are included in newer versions.

Trusting Bitcoin Core

To ensure the security and stability of their Bitcoin wallets, users are strongly advised to trust only Bitcoin Core, the official reference implementation of the Bitcoin protocol. BitcoinCore.org is the official website for downloading the Bitcoin Core software, as confirmed by Mark Erhardt of ChainCode Labs, the largest Bitcoin developer training company.

Distrust of 'Bitcoin+Word' Brands

The Bitcoin community has historically been wary of brands that use "Bitcoin" in their name but promote alternative or incompatible implementations of the Bitcoin protocol, such as Bitcoin Unlimited, Bitcoin Gold, Bitcoin Cash, and Bitcoin SV. These brands often make misleading claims about their relationship to Bitcoin and may pose risks to users' funds.

Conclusion

Users are urged to exercise caution when downloading Bitcoin Core software. The official source for the most up-to-date and secure version is BitcoinCore.org. Relying on outdated or potentially compromised software from Bitcoin.org can put users at unnecessary risk and undermine the security of their Bitcoin investments.