Quick Facts
Blockstream Product
- Blockstream Jade
Company Vitals
Founders: Adam Back, Greg Maxwell, Erik Svenson, and Pieter Wuille
Year Created: 2014
Headquartered: Montreal, Quebec Canada
Company Overview
Blockstream is a leading provider of blockchain technologies, focusing on Bitcoin and Liquid, a sidechain-based settlement network for traders and exchanges. They offer various products and services, such as the Blockstream Jade hardware wallet, which is designed to secure your Bitcoin and Liquid assets with advanced security features. The Blockstream Jade is an affordable hardware wallet that stands out for its built-in camera for air-gapped transactions via QR codes and its compact, portable design with a 1.14 inch screen. It is a Bitcoin-only hardware wallet, meaning it supports Bitcoin but not altcoins.
The Blockstream Jade is unique in that it allows for fully air-gapped transactions, enabling users to scan and display QR codes directly on the device to send Bitcoin and verify addresses without needing a USB or Bluetooth connection. This enhances security by minimizing the risk of malware or hacking attempts. The device also supports multiple wallets and can be used with popular wallets like Sparrow, Electrum, Specter, and more.
The Blockstream Jade is built on the principle of open-source, high-security standards, and offers features like a blind oracle for added security against physical attacks. Its security model ensures that even if the device is stolen, the private keys to your Bitcoin are protected. With a dedicated companion app, Blockstream Green, users can manage their Bitcoin easily and securely.
Security Incidents
- There was an incident in October 2023 where customer data associated with Blockstream’s Jade wallet may have been leaked from a third-party shipping provider. Multiple phishing attacks were launched asking Blockstream Jade customers to provide their seed phrase. Blockstream reached out to customers on multiple channel warning them to ignore these phishing attempts.
Big Brother Government Influence
Blockstream tends to have a lukewarm outlook on government cooperation, especially regarding its cold wallet Jade.
CEO Adam Back is pretty outspoken critic of government. He believes the US Government is part of a non-productive class that needs to be reduced in size.