Late John McAfee’s X account announced the launch of the AIntivirus token, linked to an AI avatar, stirring curiosity and skepticism within the crypto community.
Background
- On January 23, the late John McAfee's X account posted about the launch of a new crypto token, AIntivirus, describing it as an AI version of himself. The post read:“I’m back with AIntivirus. An AI version of myself. You didn’t think I would miss this cycle, did you?”
- Following the announcement, the token’s market value surged to $76.98 million before dropping to $28.68 million, at the time of writing
- McAfee’s X account has not been hacked, as verified by blockchain security firm PeckShield and confirmed by McAfee’s wife, Janice McAfee, on her X account
Why should you pay attention?
- Legacy Extension: The project appears to be aimed at “honouring” McAfee’s legacy, integrating his passions for privacy, freedom, and technology with the growing fields of crypto and AI
- Market Performance: The AIntivirus token has seen significant price volatility, typical of newly launched tokens, raising both interest and concern
- Skepticism Over Token Distribution: Insiders reportedly hold a large portion of the token, which raises red flags about potential risks, including rug pulls or sudden value crashes
- Community Reaction: The announcement has fueled speculation and divided the crypto community, with some questioning the token’s legitimacy
Who said what?
- PeckShield, a blockchain security firm, clarified:
“The account has not been compromised.”
- Janice McAfee, John McAfee’s wife, wrote:
“I am super excited to announce that I have taken creative control of a product that will expand John’s legacy. It encompasses his core beliefs of freedom, privacy, and technology, while expanding on his passion for crypto and AI.”
- Crypto Community’s Mixed Reactions:
Some joked about McAfee “rising from the dead” to launch a token.
Others voiced concerns about insider-held tokens and the potential for market manipulation.
Zooming out
- The AIntivirus token launch highlights the growing intersection of AI and blockchain technology, while sparking debates about ethical token launches and posthumous projects
- As the token market evolves, its performance and the actions of its team will determine whether it can sustain its initial momentum or fade into obscurity
