In Venezuela, Bitcoin goes from economic lifeline to national threat

[McFurd]

Yahoo Finance - CNBC - 9/2/2107 - MacKenzie Sigalos - Cryptocurrencies like bitcoin have long been seen as a risky investment, but in places like Venezuela, they can also be dangerous. Thousands of Venezuelans have turned to secretly mining the digital currency — which is closing in on a record high near $5,000 — for their economic survival, and for many that means risking jail time. Venezuela was once the richest country in South America, but it's now in crisis. It stands at the brink of civil war. Deadly protests paralyze city centers. It's the world's most indebted country, and its GDP has collapsed. Food and basic necessities are scarce, people are rationing toothpaste and toilet paper, and there are even reports of hungry Venezuelans killing flamingos and anteaters for food. Read more @ https://finance.yahoo.com/news/one-worl ... 00824.html