Freedom Tech vs the Surveillance State: White Noise, Bitcoin & Nostr | Jeff G

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Dec 30, 2025

In this discussion, Jeff G, an open-source developer and architect of privacy-focused tools, dives into the ongoing battle between freedom tech and the surveillance state. He shares insights on White Noise, a decentralized messaging app, and the innovative Marmot protocol for secure communication. Topics like the dangers of centralized platforms, metadata surveillance, and the importance of private communications for activists are explored. Jeff provides a glimpse into the future of decentralized identity and the pivotal role of Bitcoin in safeguarding individual freedom.

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INSIGHT

Decentralized Messaging With Signal-Level UX

White Noise aims to match Signal's usability while running over a fully decentralized network.
It preserves end-to-end encryption and reduces metadata exposure compared with centralized messengers.

INSIGHT

Marmot: MLS Meets Nostr

Marmot marries MLS (group-forward encryption) with Nostr's identity and relays to deliver private group messaging.
MLS supplies efficient group keys while Nostr provides identity and delivery without central choke points.

ADVICE

Bind Identity, Not Encryption Keys

Use Nostr pubkeys for identity while keeping encryption device-bound so key leaks don't compromise past or future chats.
Design systems where identity is verifiable but message keys remain locally stored and unrecoverable by attackers.

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