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Searchable NYC property database draws criticism from crypto leaders
Critics argue the searchable tool, built from New York City assessed property records, makes it easier to identify wealthy addresses amid concerns about crypto-related violence.
Decrypt reports a searchable database compiled from New York City public property assessment records has drawn backlash from prominent figures in the crypto industry. Crypto executives say organizing public data into a highly searchable resource increases physical security risks, while critics cite a rise in violent attacks targeting cryptocurrency holders.
The controversy focuses on data published by the New York City Department of Finance, including the FY2027 assessment roll, supplemental market value information, and property tax guides made available through the city Open Data portal. Critics on X said the problem is not that the underlying records are public, but that aggregating and organizing them into a searchable database makes it easier to identify owners of expensive properties.
Uniswap founder Hayden Adams called the approach extremely dangerous, saying the database listed nearly every unit in some luxury buildings and included primary residences of people he knows. Helius CEO Mert Mumtaz described the project as “unsettling,” arguing it cleaned, centralized, and distributed scattered records in a way that effectively singled out wealthy individuals.
Castle Island Ventures partner Nic Carter warned that an easily searchable list of affluent property owners could help potential victims be identified, pointing to recent crypto-related kidnappings and violent attacks in Europe, according to Decrypt. The article notes that Adams argued the project cast an overly broad net when treating who could be associated with the listings as part of the database output.