Experts – Earlybirds Invest https://earlybirdsinvest.com Latest Crypto News Thu, 21 Aug 2025 09:47:59 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.11 https://i0.wp.com/earlybirdsinvest.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/cropped-New-Project-2024-12-17T235703.455.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Experts – Earlybirds Invest https://earlybirdsinvest.com 32 32 240146708 ZK-Proofs Could Bridge Crypto Privacy and Law, a16z Experts Say https://earlybirdsinvest.com/zk-proofs-could-bridge-crypto-privacy-and-law-a16z-experts-say/ https://earlybirdsinvest.com/zk-proofs-could-bridge-crypto-privacy-and-law-a16z-experts-say/#respond Thu, 21 Aug 2025 09:47:59 +0000 https://earlybirdsinvest.com/zk-proofs-could-bridge-crypto-privacy-and-law-a16z-experts-say/

a16z crypto policy experts Aiden Slaven and David Sverdlov argue that zero-knowledge proofs (ZK-proofs) can strike a balance between privacy and regulation.

In a report published on August 19, they explained that this cryptographic method can confirm facts, such as the origin of funds, without forcing users to reveal all transaction details.

They see this as especially relevant when digital assets are exchanged for traditional money. If users present ZK-proofs at these points, banks and exchanges would gain confidence that funds are legitimate while individuals keep their on-chain activity private.

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Slaven and Sverdlov highlight that ZK-proofs could also handle everyday verifications, like confirming citizenship, without requiring sensitive documents. Instead of sharing a passport or license, a proof could confirm status while hiding unnecessary details such as address or date of birth.

Some critics worry that privacy-preserving tools are too complex or heavy for large-scale use. The two authors responded that ongoing improvements are reducing these limits. They noted that researchers and developers are making ZK-proofs faster and easier to use.

They also encourage looking beyond ZK-proofs. Homomorphic encryption, for example, allows certain data points to be processed without unlocking other information. Multiparty computation lets groups calculate results together without disclosing their own inputs. Differential privacy protects people when survey or usage data is aggregated.

Meanwhile, SoFi Technologies recently announced plans to launch a Bitcoin Lightning and UMA-powered transfer service. How does it work? Read the full story.


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Will America become the world’s Bitcoin and Cryptocurrency capital? This is the expert’s view. https://earlybirdsinvest.com/will-america-become-the-worlds-bitcoin-and-cryptocurrency-capital-this-is-the-experts-view/ https://earlybirdsinvest.com/will-america-become-the-worlds-bitcoin-and-cryptocurrency-capital-this-is-the-experts-view/#respond Mon, 11 Aug 2025 03:01:36 +0000 https://earlybirdsinvest.com/will-america-become-the-worlds-bitcoin-and-cryptocurrency-capital-this-is-the-experts-view/

“…We will definitely be the world’s crypto capital of regulated ETF funds. But are we serious about making America the world’s crypto capital for peer-to-peer transactions and individual freedoms?” -Peter Van Valkenburgh

The developers of Samourai Wallet accepted a plea deal after Tornado Cash co-founder Roman Storm was found guilty of conspiracy to run a licensed money-sending business.

In an interview with Van Valkenburgh, we explained how the results of the Tornado Cash and Samourai Wallet case put Americans at risk the ability to use Bitcoin and crypto anonymously.

Additionally, Van Valkenburgh has nurtured whether it is sufficient to protect developers of non-craftsman cryptographic technology, which is a privacy-enhancing, whether they are pressing for laws like the Clarity Act, which borrows important languages from the Blockchain Regulations Act (BRCA).

He also pointed out how the White House report “Strengthening America’s Leadership in Digital Financial Technology” calls for the passage of the BRCA. He said this is “the best way to stop prosecutions like the tornado cash prosecutors from happening.”

Van Valkenburgh added that money submission fees should not be brought to developers of Tornado Cash and Samourai Wallet at the first location, as Fincen Guidance in 2019 states clearly.

“Working with the Coinjoin server is like running a Craigslist,” explained Van Valkenburgh.

“People meet at Craigslist and do things like exchange values, but Craigslist doesn’t exchange values. They just connect people who exchange themselves,” he added.

Van Valkenburgh argued that this ability to create technologies that help software developers anonymize Bitcoin and crypto transactions without fear of prosecution is key to fulfilling President Trump’s vision of becoming “the world’s crypto capital.”

According to Van Valkenburgh, the ability to use Bitcoin and crypto mixers, as well as other types of non-radical Bitcoin and crypto technologies, is essential to the modern American right to personal freedom.

Without maintaining this freedom, he insisted that the United States is no different from its enemy.

“If financial transactions are fully monitored like China and North Korea, we won’t become America anymore,” Vanbalkenberg said.

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Experts warn that rising Bitcoin prices are now important for financial stability https://earlybirdsinvest.com/experts-warn-that-rising-bitcoin-prices-are-now-important-for-financial-stability/ https://earlybirdsinvest.com/experts-warn-that-rising-bitcoin-prices-are-now-important-for-financial-stability/#respond Fri, 25 Jul 2025 00:37:28 +0000 https://earlybirdsinvest.com/experts-warn-that-rising-bitcoin-prices-are-now-important-for-financial-stability/

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Strike founder Jack Mullers argued in a video shared on X that structurally high Bitcoin prices have emerged as a necessary component of US fiscal management, linking stubcoin growth with US government debt demand. Framing the newly introduced genius stubcoin law as “a critical moment of digital assets and the domination of the world’s dollars,” Mullers said the bill “has nothing to do with Bitcoin.”

Bitcoin and gold must rise to avert the US fiscal crisis

Mullers displayed a chart of Tether’s market capitalization along with the price of Bitcoin, saying, “In Green, Tether, Market Capital, and what you see in Orange is Bitcoin. He then linked that relationship with federal funding. Stubcoin issuers, especially Tether, hold a massive amount of US Treasury. Therefore, the larger Stablecoin float leads to a progressive structural demand for US debt.

Related readings

Mullers said he has “confined” the US financially, saying, “We know that the US cannot raise interest rates and can’t cut spending. So we are trapped. The next logical step is that we need to devalue the dollar. That’s the only way.” The policy question he continued is the assets that the dollar should be allowed to oppose. “Don’t deduce dollars against a house…Don’t deduce dollars against an egg…My recommendation, deduce it against Bitcoin and gold.”

Predicting a scenario where Bitcoin will reach $500,000 – “It’s five times from here” – Mullers argued that such a move would “five times” to “five times” and create “five times the demand for US debt,” he said, and that it doesn’t want your debts to be a traditional foreigner and domestic buyers who won’t tire of it.”

He compared the Treasury funding needs, the expansion of the Federal Reserve balance sheet and the positive integrity of the composition of the stubcoin reserve to previous historic episodes.

Related readings

At “130%” from US debt to GDP, a substantial reduction in terms of conditions requires a financial collapse led to politically acceptable assets inflation. He extended the story to politics, highlighting policy moves such as “the president and his family just bought $2 billion worth of Bitcoin” and “the US retirement market to Crypto Investments.”

Mallers said that placing Bitcoin and Gold in a retirement account allows policymakers to “base the dollar and re-election.”

He came to the conclusion by modifying the mechanisms he thinks are emerging from the bill. “Stubcoin is a new way to fund the government, but it grows as Bitcoin grows. One way to grow stubcoin is to grow Bitcoin.

At the time of pressing, BTC was traded for $118,055.

Bitcoin Price
BTC must break the 1 day chart for $119,100 Source: BTCUSDT on tradingView.com

Featured images created with dall.e, charts on tradingview.com

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UK launches vulnerability research program for external experts https://earlybirdsinvest.com/uk-launches-vulnerability-research-program-for-external-experts/ https://earlybirdsinvest.com/uk-launches-vulnerability-research-program-for-external-experts/#respond Tue, 15 Jul 2025 05:54:15 +0000 https://earlybirdsinvest.com/uk-launches-vulnerability-research-program-for-external-experts/

UK launches vulnerability research program for external experts

UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has announced a new Vulnerability Research Initiative (VRI) that aims to strengthen relations with external cybersecurity experts.

The agency already conducts internal vulnerability research on a wide range of technologies and will continue to do so. However, the launch of VRI will create a parallel program designed to improve discovery and sharing of critical insights with the community more expeditiously.

The NCSC is the UK’s cybersecurity authority, tasked to protect from cyber threats targeting the country’s critical infrastructure, government, businesses, and citizens.

To fulfill this mission, the agency publishes alerts, cybersecurity guidance, and threat analysis, provides support in incident response, and coordinates related activities with public, private, and international partners.

The VRI is a structured collaboration between the NCSC and external cybersecurity researchers to improve the UK’s capabilities in identifying and understanding software and hardware vulnerabilities.

“The Vulnerability Research Initiative (VRI) is NCSC’s programme of research with external partners on VR,” reads the agency’s announcement.

“The VRI’s mission is to strengthen the UK’s ability to carry out VR. We work with the best external vulnerability researchers to deliver a deep understanding of security on a wide range of technologies we care about.​”

NCSC will partner with skilled external vulnerability researchers who will be given objectives to identify flaws in specific products of interest, assess proposed mitigations, and finally disclose the flaws through the ‘Equities Process’ procedure.

The researchers will also submit to the NCSC details about the tools they used and the methodologies they followed during their VR activities, to help develop a framework of effective practices.

NCSC states that it plans to involve more experts in emerging specialized areas such as AI-powered vulnerability discovery.

Interested security specialists are invited to email at vri@ncsc.gov.uk with their skills and focus areas.

The email address address should not be used for sending full vulnerability reports, the agency notes. NCSC recommends using this portal to report a vulnerability instead.

Tines Needle

While cloud attacks may be growing more sophisticated, attackers still succeed with surprisingly simple techniques.

Drawing from Wiz’s detections across thousands of organizations, this report reveals 8 key techniques used by cloud-fluent threat actors.

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Solana Price Prediction: Experts See SOL Hitting $300 Before August Amid Bullish Chart Patterns https://earlybirdsinvest.com/solana-price-prediction-experts-see-sol-hitting-300-before-august-amid-bullish-chart-patterns/ https://earlybirdsinvest.com/solana-price-prediction-experts-see-sol-hitting-300-before-august-amid-bullish-chart-patterns/#respond Sun, 13 Jul 2025 21:36:02 +0000 https://earlybirdsinvest.com/solana-price-prediction-experts-see-sol-hitting-300-before-august-amid-bullish-chart-patterns/

Crypto Journalist

Anas Hassan

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Anas is a crypto native journalist and SEO writer with over five years of writing experience covering blockchain, crypto, DeFi, and emerging tech.

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Solana(SOL) is back at it, showing renewed strength after successfully breaking the $160 resistance level for the second time within the past three months.

Currently trading at $163.43, SOL has gained 12.87% over the last 30 days, commanding an $87.65 billion market capitalization that has solidified its position as the sixth-largest cryptocurrency in the market.

Analysts now believe the recent price action mirrors the $125 breakout witnessed in April, which subsequently led to a $187 peak in May. The current projection targets $300 before August.

Solana Becomes TradFi Internet Layer With PumpFun ICO $500M Liquidity Dominance

Beyond bullish chart patterns, Solana continues to serve as a liquidity hub, with protocols built on its infrastructure showcasing compelling use cases and competitive advantages over other layer-1 blockchains.

For instance, the popular memecoin launchpad PumpFun conducted its ICO on July 12, with more than 70% of participants securing spots in the highly contested FCFS distribution through direct Solana chain interaction.

This event raised over $500 million via on-chain wallets, while only $100 million was recorded from centralized exchanges due to investors struggling to process their transactions efficiently.

This development has further reinforced Solana’s edge as the internet layer for traditional finance and capital markets.

Similarly, the popular Solana-based NFT mascot Pudgy Penguin has attracted attention from top industry players, with notable figures including VanEck, Coinbase, Moonpay, and even Tron founder Justin Sun featuring the PENGU profile picture.

With the first-ever Solana ETF now live in the United States and additional ones in the pipeline, analysts like Ali Charts believe SOL’s breakout will target the $185 immediate resistance level.

Popular crypto trader “Crypto Dubzy” also shared his analysis, projecting $194 as the next target if the $195 resistance is breached, with expectations for the $257-$305 levels to follow.

With Solana’s open interest in the derivatives market surging past $8.15 billion and funding rates remaining positive, these targets appear well within reach.

Solana Price Prediction: Experts See SOL Hitting $300 Before August Amid Bullish Chart Patterns

SOL Weekly EMA89 Reclaimed — Next Fibonacci Stop at $252

On the technical front, the weekly chart for SOL/USDT displays a potential bullish reversal now that price has reclaimed and is trading above the 89-week EMA, which serves as a significant long-term trend indicator.

Following a prolonged correction from the $295 high, SOL found support around the 0.236 Fibonacci retracement level near $142 and has since rebounded with increasing volume.

Solana Price Prediction: Experts See SOL Hitting $300 Before August Amid Bullish Chart Patterns

The recent price breakout above both the EMA89 and a multi-week consolidation pattern suggests growing momentum.

Should bullish continuation persist, the next potential resistance zones align with Fibonacci levels—first at $171 (0.382), followed by $195, $219, and a possible retest of $252 if momentum accelerates.

Given the recovery of key moving averages and the structural shift, the outlook favors an upward trajectory toward the $200–$250 range, provided SOL maintains levels above the $145–$155 support band.

Snorter Bot Provides Early Access To Solana Memecoin Sniping Tool

For traders seeking to capitalize on Solana’s performance, one common strategy involves purchasing Solana memecoins when SOL demonstrates strong price action.

However, most of these tokens are not easily accessible except through direct interaction with the Solana chain.

Professional traders and DeFi participants often resort to using Telegram trading bots to snipe these memecoins, particularly on platforms like pump.fun and the newly launched BonkFun.

One trading bot gaining traction among users is the Snorter bot.

Solana Price Prediction: Experts See SOL Hitting $300 Before August Amid Bullish Chart Patterns

What makes it particularly appealing is its Solana-based infrastructure and its native token $SNORT, offered as a memecoin for investors to purchase.

Within just a few weeks since its presale launch, Snorter Bot (SNORT) has successfully raised over $1.6 million, demonstrating significant investor interest.

SNORT is currently priced at $0.0981 per token during the ongoing presale round, offering early investors the opportunity to participate before the price increases.

Interested participants can join the presale via the official Snorter presale website, using popular cryptocurrencies or bank cards to complete their purchase.


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Best VPN for Mac 2025: Trustworthy Mac VPNs tested by experts https://earlybirdsinvest.com/best-vpn-for-mac-2025-trustworthy-mac-vpns-tested-by-experts/ https://earlybirdsinvest.com/best-vpn-for-mac-2025-trustworthy-mac-vpns-tested-by-experts/#respond Thu, 26 Jun 2025 16:46:43 +0000 https://earlybirdsinvest.com/best-vpn-for-mac-2025-trustworthy-mac-vpns-tested-by-experts/

If you are concerned about your privacy and security online using a VPN could give you some reassurance. Apple provides various measures in macOS that make Macs more secure, but if you want to ensure that the connection between your Mac and the internet is protected, rather than the computer itself, you need a VPN.

Our top choice for Mac users is NordVPN, read on to find out why.

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NymVPN – Forget everything you know about VPN

Many traditional VPN services still store logs centrally, meaning your activity could be traced back to you if they’re hacked or forced to hand over data. NymVPN is different. It uses a mixnet – a decentralized network that blends your traffic with others, making it virtually impossible to trace who did what.

Try NymVPN now and get 5 months free with the 2-year subscription plan!

Using a VPN essentially makes you invisible on the web–your data is encrypted, your IP address is hidden, and you can even make it look like you are surfing from another country. This latter reason is the main reason many people use a VPN: they want to access services that are locked to a particular region, such as accessing U.S. Netflix from the U.K. or BBC iPlayer from the U.S.

If you are looking for a VPN to protect your privacy and security online, and to grant you a way to access content as if you are in a different country, we are here to help. There are a lot of VPN providers vying for your business, which can make finding the best one to suit your needs difficult. To help you sort out the right provider for you, we’ve committed to extensive research and testing of VPN services that cater to Mac owners in our guide to the top VPN services for Mac.

Best VPNs for Mac: Reviewed & Ranked

Our top choice right now is NordVPN, which we feel stands out in many areas, from speed and privacy to unblocking and ease of use.

Below you will find the VPN services for Mac that we recommend based on our tests.

All of these VPNs will also work on your iPhone and iPad as well, and many with Apple TV, but you might want to check out our separate guides to the best VPNs for iPad and iPhone.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Impressive WireGuard speeds
  • Lots of servers

Cons

  • Two separate apps can be confusing

Price When Reviewed:

Basic plan from $3.09 a month for two years. Usually $12.99.

  • 5,300 servers
  • 10 simultaneous connections

NordVPN is one of the biggest and best-known VPN services. It’s a fully featured VPN option that’s secure, easy to use, and unbelievably fast compared to its competitors. There are cheaper options, with unlimited connections and more in-depth VPN features, but NordVPN is our top choice right now because it stands out in so many areas, from speed and privacy to unblocking and ease of use.

There are more than 5,300 servers (none of which are virtual) available across 60 countries, which sounds great. You probably only care about the servers where you want to unblock content, but the more servers the better as it means you have a better chance of finding one that’s not overloaded. You won’t have to figure out which one to choose thanks to the handy ‘Quick connect’ feature that picks the server best suited to your needs.

Connections are fast and reliable, and NordVPN unblocks popular streaming services around the world including Netflix and BBC iPlayer. You can connect up to six devices simultaneously including your Apple TV.

Nord has added support for the faster WireGuard protocol in NordLynx, making it one of the fastest VPN services out there. However, it’s only available on the ‘IKE’ version of the app, which only offers a permanently enabled kill switch. To have more control, you’ll need to download the ‘OpenVPN’ version, albeit with slightly slower speeds.

Nord has an up-to-date independent audit. It also has specialty servers for specific purposes.

Nord frequently has deals on offer that save money on the usual monthly price if you take advantage of the two-year plan. NordVPN offers three tiers: Standard, Plus and Ultimate. You can get Plus features (data breach scanner and password manager) or the Ultimate tier adds cloud storage and insurance options.

Prices change all the time, so take a look at the prices and plans at NordVPN.com.

NordVPN review

2. Surfshark – Easy to use, secure VPN

Pros

  • Simple to use
  • No device limits
  • Great for streaming services

Price When Reviewed:

Starter plan from $1.99 a month for two years + 3 free months. Usually $15.45 a month.


Best Prices Today:

Surfshark (Monthly)


$1.99

  • 3,200 servers in 100 countries
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections

Surfshark is a reliable, affordable option with more than 3000 servers spread across 100 countries. Surfshark’s network is one of the widest and most varied of any VPN.

Its apps, which work with Macs, iPhones, and even Apple TV, as well as other devices, are easy to use. The macOS app offers light and dark modes, and you can opt to have it shown in the dock or the menu bar. The iOS version of SurfShark offers features like MultiHop and Dedicated IP – it’s not a watered-down versions of their desktop VPN.

SurfShark offers three tiers of features at varying price points. SurfShark Starter offers VPN functionality as well as an ad blocker and the option to generate a proxy email address and personal details. SurfShark One adds email and payment detail breach alerts, as well as personal data security reports, antivirus and other malware protection. And the One+ plan adds data removal from company databases and people search sites.

When we reviewed Surfshark previously we had some performance issues, but this time around things were a lot better. With WireGuard, SurfShark is the slickest VPN around, removing very little speed from my connection. OpenVPN, where we had problems previously, was much swifter this time around. Whichever protocol we used, we were able to flick between streaming libraries with ease.

Those protocols also offer varying degrees of encryption to keep your data secure. The Kill Switch feature is billed as a “safety net”, It’ll shut down your connection if your VPN connection falters, preventing personal data from sneaking out to bad actors.

Surfshark is is headquartered in the Netherlands and has a privacy-minded no-logs policy that’s regularly audited. Surfshark’s process means it logs a small amount of data that’s then scrubbed from its servers with 15 minutes of closing the connection. Surfshark confirmed to us in June 2025 that they had their no-logs policy independently verified again and Deloitte confirmed that they don’t monitor what our users do online and do not keep logs of their activities.

For even more security, the Antivirus Scan feature (available with Surfshark One and One+) can run scheduled background scans if you leave the app open. Ransomware Shield and Webcam Protection can stop your personal folders and hardware camera from falling into the wrong hands respectively, and the app will constantly look to update its database of viruses to cross-reference files.

Sign up to Surfshark here.

Surfshark review

3. ExpressVPN – Fast, privacy-focused VPN

Pros

  • Easy-to-use
  • Broad device support
  • Excellent speeds

Cons

  • Illusive ExpressVPN team
  • Expensive

Price When Reviewed:

From $4.99 a month for 2 years + 4 free months


Best Prices Today:

ExpressVPN (Monthly)


$4.99

  • 2,000 servers
  • 8 simultaneous connections

If you want to circumnavigate geoblocking to get access to content not available where you live, protect your data while browsing the web from a public network, and keep your web browsing habits private, ExpressVPN, with its server locations across 105 countries, can do just about all of this with two or three clicks.

ExpressVPN is remarkably easy to use, but if you have any difficulties the 24-hour live chat means you can be connected to a real human to discuss issues within minutes.

There are native apps on iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Mac, Android and Windows. Plus you can use it on eight devices at once (the limit was five previously).

Like all VPNs there is some speed loss because you are routing via a server in another country, but ExpressVPN does well to mitigate this, dropping less than 13% of download speed in our testing. NordVPN remains faster with a 12% loss in our tests, but ExpressVPN’s 13% is still better than most.

ExpressVPN offers no fewer than six different choices for protocol. Lightway, the company’s own option, is rapid. For improved compatibility you can switch to another version of Lightway or OpenVPN – things slowed down with  24% of speed loss with the latter.

There’s no Malware protection with ExpressVPN, but you can install a password manager called ExpressVPN Keys.

The company is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands, so it’s free from the majority of intelligence-sharing agencies’ jurisdiction. While it also operates a no-log policy, it doesn’t have PureVPN’s “always-on” audit process, but it undergoes audits each year.

ExpressVPN’s more expensive than many of its contemporaries and doesn’t allow access from unlimited devices (just eight). But you get a solid, speedy connection with minimal fuss, and you don’t have to tie-in for a two-year deal to get the best value. That latter point is important because VPN legislation can change regularly.

See ExpressVPN subscription plans here.

ExpressVPN review

4. ProtonVPN – Full of features

Pros

  • Simple to use
  • Free plan
  • Great speed

Cons

  • Setup on macOS was a little fiddly

Price When Reviewed:

From $2.99 a month for two years. Usually $9.99 a month.


Best Prices Today:

Proton Technologies (Monthly)


$2.99

  • 6,500+ servers in 100+ countries (access servers in 5 countries on free plan, on one device)
  • 10 simultaneous connections

ProtonVPN’s free tier of membership helps to set Proton VPN apart from some of its rivals. It’s naturally limited, with US, Japan, and Netherlands as the server locations and some speed drop – but it’s still pretty usable

If you pay for the service it offers a sleek interface, impressive connection speeds and just about enough features to improve your day-to-day web experience without throwing too many complex concepts at new users. 

Proton VPN Plus offers a host of features, including an ad and tracker blocker and speed of up to 10 Gbps, as well as a 10-device limit. There’s Port Forwarding for downloads and gaming, too, as well as a Kill Switch for disconnecting should the VPN drop out.

Some VPN services offer features like dark web data notifications. Proton VPN sticks to the basics – and does so very well. The company’s “no-logs” policy confirms it doesn’t track sites, IP addresses, communications, or session lengths, nor does it track location-based information. Proton is Swiss-based, and only Swiss court orders can request data from the company, but since it doesn’t log data there’s very little it can offer to law enforcement.

For the privacy-minded, Secure Core, routes traffic through one of the company’s ‘Secure’ servers, minimizing the potential of a data leak. These secure servers are owned by Proton and are located in more than 90 countries.

Proton VPN does increase latency, but only by about 29% in our testing on a modest 60 Mbps broadband. In fact, it’s only about 7% slower when downloading and 5.5% slower when uploading, making it one of the slicker VPNs we’ve tested.

In terms of included VPN protocols, Smart will be ideal for most users, automatically setting the right protocol for your current usage, but WireGuard, WireGuard (TCP), IKEv2 and Stealth are also offered.

Proton VPN is an easy recommendation both for new and experienced users.

Sign up for Proton’s subscription plans here.

ProtonVPN review

5. FastestVPN – Good for VPN newbies

Pros

  • Great pricing, including lifetime plan
  • Impressive speeds and features

Cons

  • Fewer servers than some rivals

Price When Reviewed:

Lifetime special deal: $40, usually $600


Best Prices Today:

FastestVPN (Lifetime payment)


$40

  • 800+ servers in 49+ countries
  • 10 simultaneous connections

FastestVPN packs impressive VPN performance, but that’s only one facet of what makes it worth a look. It’s also relatively cheap compared to many rivals, and has seen a bunch of improvements since we took a look in 2021.

The app is sleek and easy to use and offers 10 simultaneous connections.

FastestVPN is headquartered in the Cayman islands and has undergone a third-party audit from Altius to confirm its no-logs policy.

Since the last time we looked at it it’s gained a number power user features like multi-hop connections. It also now features an Internet Kill Switch to shut down all traffic if your VPN drops for any reason. You can also use Smart Tunneling to ensure certain apps go via a VPN while others don’t.

Will FastestVPN help you get around geoblocks? Yes, in fact, FastestVPN highlights certain streaming-focused servers to help get around geoblocking.

You’ll find a variety of VPN protocols to choose from, with Wireguard, OpenVPN (TCP and UDP options) and IKEv2 available, and Servers have recently been updated to 10 Gbps options, but despite the name, it’s not the fastest around. However, it’s so affordable that it’s hard not to recommend, with a lifetime price of $40 (normally $600), which we’ve even seen reduced to just $30!

FastestVPN does a great job and for a lot less than others. FastestVPN has more than 800 servers, which is a lot – but in context, that’s dramatically less than NordVPN or ExpressVPN. Rivals do offer a larger server count, but the ease of use, and low barrier of entry, make FastestVPN one of our best VPN picks in 2025.

FastestVPN is available on Mac as well as Windows, iOS, iPadOS, Android, and plenty more apps.

See FastestVPNs plans here.

FastestVPN review

6. Mullvad VPN – All about privacy

Pros

  • Privacy-focused sign-up
  • Great for getting around geoblocks
  • Great pricing

Cons

  • 5 connections is lower than some rivals

Price When Reviewed:

$5.26 a month (€5)

  • 700+ servers
  • 5 connections

Mullvad doesn’t offer recurring plans, you pay €5 a month whether you sign up for a month, a year or longer. The only price change will be dependent on the exchange rate from euros at that time. This way you aren’t caught up in a recurring subscription and Mullvad doesn’t store your personal information – a great example of its privacy-first mindset. You can even buy prepaid cards if you don’t want to log payment information, which makes Mullvad the ideal VPN service for anyone looking to leave a minimal digital footprint.

Split Tunnelling, multihop connections and even an AI-focused defence mechanism called DAITA are included.

Performance is excellent and there are plenty of features that would be paid additions elsewhere. For example, the Kill Switch to cut traffic if the VPN drops, and a Lockdown Mode that forces the user to reconnect via Mullvad if the connection drops. Multihop will bounce your connection via multiple servers, and split tunnelling is available so you can send some traffic via the VPN and ignore it for others. There is also an ad blocker.

It’s available on Mac, Windows, iOS, iPadOS, and Android. It’s accessed exclusively from the menu bar on Mac. The iPhone and iPad apps pack plenty of power user features that in some services are limited to desktop, like multihop connections and the DAITA protection. DAITA (Defence against AI-guided Traffic Analysis) will add ‘network noise’ so data packets are all the same size.

The main disadvantages are the five device limit, which is lower than many VPNs, and. a lower server count. It has 700, but this is still lower than the likes of NordVPN with over 7,000. Mullvad’s servers are all real, not virtual, servers though. Connection speeds are impressive.

Mullvad is a fantastic VPN service that’s about as privacy-minded as can be. It might not have the most servers, but that’s a small price to pay for the service on offer.

Sign up to Mullvad here.

Mullvad review

7. Hide.me – feature packed

Pros

  • Free tier
  • Streaming-focused servers included
  • Advanced features

Cons

  • Fewer servers than other options

Price When Reviewed:

From $2.69 a month

  • 2,600+ servers in 90 countries
  • 10 simultaneous connections

Hide Me is a versatile VPN with a free plan (though limited). It unblocks Netflix libraries globally and keeps data secure.

Hide Me is available on various devices, with native apps for Windows, Mac, iPad, Android, and iOS. The Mac app has a main window and a Menu bar icon for quick access. The initial setup is straightforward, focusing on quick app usage.

Want to quickly connect to a server? Open it and click the Enable VPN button. It’s great to see 10 simultaneous connections available, so one plan can cover a family’s devices. You can choose where you’re connecting from a list of locations or a list of streaming-friendly options.

While it offers advanced features like Split Tunnelling and multi-hop servers, these are easily accessible. Split-tunnelling lets you send traffic via the VPN on a per-app basis, while a Kill Switch can stop all traffic when your VPN connection wavers.

Multi-Hop connectivity is included in the price, which means your data bounces between servers, further hiding it and making it harder to trace, though it does slow down connectivity.

OpenVPN is supported, as expected, but IKEv2, SoftEther, and SSTP are also available, so you can easily switch to an alternative protocol if needed.

We found sub-10% download speed drops across multiple servers, making it one of the slicker VPNs we’ve tested.

Geo-unblocking is great, as Hide Me switches your location to various streaming-friendly servers.

Privacy-wise, Hide Me is an ‘Offshore VPN’ with its headquarters in Labuan, Malaysia, giving it anonymity from the Five Eyes intelligence coalition and other countries.

The company has a strict no-logs policy, preventing it from keeping any data from users and their sessions. 

There’s a free plan with basic features, but it lacks multihop functionality and streaming support.

Easy to use, Hide Me is a great service with many features, such as split tunnelling and multihop connections, a device limit of 10 (double some rivals), and excellent streaming support. The only downside is the limited server count. 

See full Hide.me pricing here

hide.me VPN review

8. Private Internet Access

Pros

  • Lots of servers
  • Fast WireGuard speeds
  • Split tunneling works well
  • Unblocks BBC iPlayer

Cons

  • Clunky Mac app
  • Based within 14-eyes

Price When Reviewed:

From $2.19 a month for two years + 4 free months. Usually $11.99 a month. Unlimited devices.


Best Prices Today:

Private Internet Access (Monthly)


$2.19

  • 35,000+ servers, 91 countries
  • Unlimited connections

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a powerful VPN designed for savvy users, offering “power user” tools and features such as custom DNS, connection rules, split tunnelling, and more at a lower cost than many competitors. The PIA Mac app offers pretty much everything its Microsoft counterpart does. 

The app can be used on any device and offers servers in 91 countries. In my testing, the “auto” setting did a good job of picking servers that balanced speed and privacy.

The main window provides information on performance graphs, download and upload speeds, and quick settings for tools like Light Mode, Port Forwarding, and LAN connections.

While you can use PIA for getting around geoblocked content on your streaming services, PIA is more privacy-focused than other VPNs, with features like the Advanced Kill Switch, Split Tunnelling, port forwarding, and Multi-Hop server obfuscation. PIA also offers customizable features like automation setup and DNS options. 

Private Internet Access can’t beat the speeds of NordVPN and Surfshark, and its stablemate CyberGhost VPN offers more impressive speeds, but at the cost of some power features. In our testing, we saw a reasonable drop of around 8% on Mac while using the PIA VPN. Upload speeds dropped considerably– by around 25%, which may be an issue if you do a lot of uploading. 

Its zero-log policy has been verified by Deloitte Audit Romania.

Despite inconsistent speeds, Private Internet Access is a great VPN for all budgets with a wealth of features for privacy-inclined users.

Subscribe to Private Internet Access here.

Private Internet Access review

9. ClearVPN

Pros

  • Nice design.
  • Great for getting around geo-blocks.

Cons

  • Lacks some features like split tunneling.
  • Not the fastest.

Price When Reviewed:

Three day trial. Currently $44.99 a year, usually $119.88 a year ($9.99 a month).


Best Prices Today:

MacPaw (first year, 6 devices)


$44.99

  • More than 50 servers
  • Six device limit

MacPaw’s ClearVPN service is a VPN that lacks many more advanced features offered by its rivals, but on the other hand, it’s one of the easiest to use. With a nice UI and easy-to-use features it’s thoughtfully designed for VPN newcomers. It really is as simple as hitting a button to connect.

In the settings are options to block ads, keep ClearVPN in the dock, and a Kill Switch so that you can cut traffic from your device if the connection to the VPN is broken.

It’s all pretty basic stuff, but it’s offered in such an easy-to-use way that it’s hard not to appreciate the simplicity. There are also handy keyboard shortcuts to move around the app.

There are more than 50 servers, which sounds like a lot, but it’s dwarfed rivals who have thousands of servers. That means your choices are limited, but at least ClearVPN lets you filter between Optimal Location or jumping straight to something like Disney Plus US or UK.

One of the more common power user features for VPNs is split tunneling, which lets some traffic go through the VPN while some goes around it. That’s not supported here.

Sadly, MacPaw’s VPN speeds also need some work. We saw considerable speed drops across multiple servers – even closer ones. We saw drops of around 20 to 30 percent in download speed, and around 50 percent for upload speed. It’s still fast enough to use Netflix, but it’s slower than the majority of alternatives out there.

Most VPN companies use external auditors to verify that they’re not recording user or session data, but ClearVPN hasn’t undergone one at the time of writing. This shouldn’t mean anything untoward as the company is headquartered in Ukraine, which falls outside of various surveillance alliances, so it can’t be asked to share your data.

ClearVPN is priced affordably, but prices and the deals on offer change all the time with VPNs. Look out for low monthly prices that don’t lock you in for too long. There’s a six-device limit.

If you’re new to using a VPN service, ClearVPN makes a compelling case to be your first choice, and stress-free access to Netflix around the globe, it’s a great starter option. Still, the speed drop and lack of common features like split tunneling likely mean power users should look elsewhere. You can save money by paying for the first year up front, but you can also pay monthly.

See full ClearVPN pricing here.

ClearVPN review

10. PureVPN

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Works on multiple devices
  • Additional power user features

Cons

  • Obtuse pricing model.
  • Caused many websites to question whether we were “human”

Price When Reviewed:

Standard plan from $2.14 a month for two years + 3 free months, $58.05 a year (usually $349.65).


Best Prices Today:

PureVPN (Monthly for first year)


$2.14

  • 6,500 servers, 78 countries
  • 10 simultaneous connections

If you’re looking for a flexible VPN service that will get around geoblocking and is easy to use, PureVPN is well worth a look.

The basic plan includes the VPN service and nothing more, but you can add a Password Manager and File Encryption tools in the Plus plan. The Max plan adds a Digital Privacy Manager that requests your records be scrubbed by data brokers, blocks web trackers, and recommends ways to maximize your privacy.

Whichever plan you opt for you’ll be able to connect 10 devices at once. PureVPN will run on your iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple TV, and is easy to use on each to let you connect to over six thousand servers.

As far as getting around geo-blocks, we found PureVPN to be as easy as any other service to use. Select a location, load your streaming service or app of choice, and you’re off.

PureVPN is registered in the British Virgin Islands, which is more privacy-friendly than Hong Kong where it operated previously. PureVPN offers one of the more impressive no-logging policies, with an ongoing “always-on” audit process whereby an auditor can request confirmation of that policy at any time.

PureVPN has been winding down its virtual servers, of which it has less control. There are still 23 such servers, but PureVPN is transparent about which servers are virtual and which are physical – you can see a small ‘v’ next to each virtual server on the PureVPN website.

At the time of writing PureVPN is offering more than a whopping 80% off its plans if you sign up for 24 months. Two years is a long time in the world of VPNs, but at least means the full monthly pricing won’t kick in twelve months time.

See PureVPN offers here.

PureVPN review

11. Malwarebytes Privacy VPN

Pros

  • Killswitch and other advanced features
  • Decent speeds

Cons

  • Fewer servers than some rivals
  • Inconsistent geoblocking

Price When Reviewed:

$39.99 a year for one device


Best Prices Today:

Malwarebytes (first year, 1 device)


$39.99

  • More than 245 servers
  • 32 countries

Malwarebytes is probably best known for antivirus software and advice (see our review of Malwarebytes Premium for Mac), but it also offers a standalone VPN service called Malwarebytes Privacy VPN. It’s an easy to use app with the right kind of privacy promises – as you’d expect.

Malwarebytes Privacy VPN is easy to use and offers speeds that are better than many of its rivals for both downloads and uploads. It also has split-tunnelling via its ‘Connection rules’, and a Kill Switch to cut all traffic if the VPN drops out.

There are some caveats — namely that it features fewer server locations than its rivals, and getting around geoblocks for different versions of streaming services can be a tad inconsistent.

There’s no multi-hop server jumping, but the company does have a verified no-logs policy in place which means information isn’t held about a user’s activity.

See full Maywarebytes pricing here

Malwarebytes Privacy VPN review

12. CyberGhost

Pros

  • Simple to use
  • Decent speeds
  • Plenty of servers

Cons

  • Two-year plans are much cheaper
  • Lacking some power user features

Price When Reviewed:

$2.19 a month for two years + 2 free months. Usually $12.99 a month.


Best Prices Today:

CyberGhost (Monthly)


$2.19

  • 11,000+ servers in 100 countries
  • 7 simultaneous connections

CyberGhost is a user-friendly app that connects to numerous servers worldwide, making it ideal for streaming Netflix from different countries and routing traffic away from untrustworthy open Wi-Fi networks. 

It offers core features like kill switch support, split tunnelling, and no bandwidth restrictions. CyberGhost’s no-logging audit history is thorough, and there is a 45-day free trial available.

CyberGhost apps can be downloaded for various platforms, including Chrome extension and game consoles (we tested on Mac and iPhone). The app offers a simple “click and go” connection process, with a list of server nations and multiple locations. Encryption is standard across servers, and split tunnelling prioritizes traffic where needed. An automated kill switch can cut connections if the VPN drops out, while ‘Block content’ blocks DNS domains for ads, trackers, and malware.

The app does not offer anything like Proton VPN’s Secure Core or additional features like a Password Manager, but subscription tiers are based on adding a dedicated IP address. The VPN has over 9,000 servers located in over 100 countries, with plans to expand in South America and Asia in late 2023.

CyberGhost VPN has an impressive no-logs policy, meaning no one can access records of your activity while connected to the VPN. The app does not offer the Dark Web monitor offered by NordVPN, but it does have an automated kill switch to cut connections if the VPN drops out. The DNS blocking feature is easy to use but doesn’t allow you to choose what to block.

CyberGhost offers a compelling package with just one main plan and a 45-day money-back guarantee. It’s an excellent VPN for newcomers, with impressive audits, an array of servers, decent speeds, and easy-to-use apps.

See CyberGhost pricing here.

CyberGhost review

13. Norton Ultra VPN

Pros

  • Antivirus protections
  • Cloud Backup and Password Manager
  • Email tracking quarantine

Cons

  • Slower than rival VPNs
  • Inflexible payment options

Price When Reviewed:

First year is from $39.99 Norton Secure VPN; $49.99 Norton Ultra VPN; $59.99 Norton Ultra VPN Plus. Renews at a higher price of $79.99/$109.99/$129.99.


Best Prices Today:

Norton (first year)


$49.99

Norton has decades of experience protecting devices from cyber threats (read our review of Norton 360), but what or its VPN?

Norton’s VPN plans are, outside of the basic tier, tied into its security software. It also comes with a password manager, dark web monitor, and cloud storage, but the VPN side of things is a little lacking.

Perhaps it’s from testing so many of the best VPN services that we’ve grown used to a certain set of non-negotiables. Chief among them is browser extension options to allow for quick switching, but at the time of writing, there’s no such offering from Norton.

Norton’s VPN does include plenty of accoutrements that other VPNs either don’t have or charge extra for. You can install the app on your iPhone, iPad, and Mac, and all three platforms have apps that work well and run nicely in the background.

Norton offers Browser Protection, which scans sites as you browse. Norton also scans files before they land on your device. This worked well in testing, with barely added any additional time to the length of downloads. There’s a password manager, but it’s tied to the middle subscription tier and above.

VPNs naturally decrease your internet speeds as your signal is fired across the globe, and Norton has servers in 32 countries – a steep drop from the 111 in NordVPN’s portfolio – but it does offer four protocols to choose from. IKEv2, OpenVPN and WireGuard are pretty commonly found across the board of rivals, but Norton has its own Mimic protocol which is intended to be ideal for unblocking international streaming services. Sadly, testing on a 70 Mbps connection saw a consistent speed drop-off. As for Mimic, Norton’s own VPN protocol, I was disappointed to find some international streaming services simply weren’t able to be unblocked with it. Norton clarified that Mimic is specifically designed for customers with special use cases who are unable to use WireGuard. We did have more luck with the more standardized protocols.

VPNs worth their salt should always focus on privacy as their primary concern, and Norton does a good job, having undergone an audit from VerSprite, a security firm.

It’s not a bad VPN, and if you’re looking for an option that packs a whole host of cyber-security tools into one easy-to-use package, it’s a great option. It’s disappointing that there is only a pay yearly option, where other VPNs have the option to pay monthly. Added to that is a steep jump in price for the second year. 

See full Norton Ultra VPN pricing here

Norton Ultra VPN review

14. VyprVPN

Pros

  • Fast WireGuard speeds
  • Very easy to use
  • Unblocks Netflix and BBC iPlayer
  • Low starting price

Cons

  • Comparatively few servers
  • Not clear which servers are virtual
  • Patchy support experience

Price When Reviewed:

From $3 a month for two years. Usually $10 a month.

  • 70 servers
  • 5 simultaneous connection

VyprVPN offers everything most people are looking for in a VPN, without needing to spend much money.

You get fast WireGuard speeds, alongside separate protocols focused on reliability, anti-censorship and ease of use. It’s also excellent at unblocking geo-restricted content, whether that’s local versions of Netflix or BBC iPlayer & ITV Hub from outside the UK. Premium features such as split tunneling and a kill switch are here too, even if the latter can’t be customised. 

VyprVPN’s no-logs policy has been independently audited, and the service adheres to a strict Privacy Policy from parent company Golden Frog. More than 700 servers in over 70 countries should be plenty for most people, although there’s often only one per country. It’s also not clear which of these are physical and virtual.

Nonetheless, it’s still speedy, reliable and affordable.

See full VyprVPN pricing here

VyprVPN review

How we test VPNs

For each VPN service we review, we conduct tests at three different times of the day: morning, afternoon, and evening, using Ookla Speedtest. We start by measuring the speed of our unprotected internet connection before testing the upload/download speeds of the VPN service. These tests are conducted to servers located in North America, the UK, Europe, Oceana, and Asia over an ethernet connection with a service provision of 100Mbps.

To test upload and download speeds, we close down all background internet processes on the Mac, using TripMode. The only traffic on the system able to upload or download any data is Ookla. We use this setup to ensure that the numbers that Ookla produced were not stymied by anything else that the computer may have been doing at the time. The speeds Ookla captured were then averaged, providing us with a final numeric score.

We then use those scores to calculate a percentage of difference in speeds, which is what you’ll see in our reviews. Since internet speeds change constantly based on server load, how fast your connection is, and a gazillion other factors, we feel this provides a better picture of what you can expect from a service, on the whole, than merely quoting the exact upload/download speeds we encountered during testing.

Speed isn’t the only quantifiable metric that we look at. The number of countries that a VPN offers servers in, total number of servers worldwide, and how much it’ll cost you to connect to those servers on a monthly or annual basis are also taken into consideration when recommending a VPN service to you.

Additionally, we conduct hours of research into the VPN providers to find out who owns them, where they’re based, what they do with subscriber information, and whether the provider has a track record of questionable business practices.

Why you can trust Macworld’s advice

The team at Macworld has been testing Mac hardware, software, and services since the 1980s. We put every product through its paces using rigorous benchmarking and hands-on evaluation. We’d never recommend something we wouldn’t use ourselves. We conduct through testing of VPNs, focusing on the practicalities of device compatibility (iPad, iPhone, Apple TV, and Mac), the number of devices supported, geo-restrictions and ease of use. We also pay attention to security – and validate the privacy promises made by each VPN company. We use the software ourselves so our reviews are based on our own experience with the software and include our own insights and unbiassed opinions. Macworld’s VPN specialist Lloyd Coombes has made it his aim to assess every VPN going.

What to look for in a VPN

A clear privacy policy. A good VPN should offer an easy-to-understand privacy policy that outlines what, if any, information the company collects from its users. It’s important that this policy details what they do with this information. Some VPN providers, especially those that offer their services for free, sell their user information to advertisers and other interested parties, just like an ISP does. Choose a provider that offers a level of privacy that suits you.

Know where the provider is based. Many countries have no laws demanding that VPN providers maintain logs of their users’ activity. This makes maintaining your privacy more assurable than it would be if you use a VPN located in a country that requires that user-activity records be maintained. Some companies, in an effort to make their network of servers look bigger or more varied than it actually is, spoof the locations of their servers.

The more servers, the merrier. Choosing a VPN provider with a ton of servers around the world is important for a couple of reasons. First, having a multitude of servers to choose from means that you won’t be forced to connect to an overpopulated server where the data flows like mud.

Second, having a wealth of servers to choose from both at home and internationally means more opportunities for spoofing your location, allowing you to hide where you are or access region-locked content with ease.

Multiple payment options. It’s a vicious circle. Paying for a VPN with a credit card online before you have access to a VPN could allow your financial information to fall into the wrong hands. Look for providers that offer alternative payment options such as PayPal, Bitcoin, AliPay, or via the Mac App Store.

An easy-to-use interface. It takes a lot of digital wizardry to connect to a VPN. Some people want to see how their VPN operates, behind the scenes. Using an open source VPN client like Tunnelblick is great for this. Most folks, however, just want their VPN to work with minimal frustration. Look for a VPN service that offers a Mac client with an easy-to-use interface.

Protection for all of your devices. A good VPN service will offer licenses for multiple devices to protect your loved ones’ computers as well as your personal smartphone and tablet. To this end, before investing in a VPN subscription, make sure that it provides software clients for all of the devices you own.

What to avoid when choosing a VPN

The price of a VPN might look attractive, but the price can rise over time. Most VPNs will cost less than $3/£3 per month if you sign up for a one- or two-year deal. However, once the deal period ends the price often jumps significantly. By the time your deal is up you may not notice the extra cash leaving your bank account so our advice is to set a reminder to shop around a month before your subscription runs out so you can search for a better deal.

Best Free VPNs for Mac

You may be able to save money if you take a look at our round-up of VPN deals. But, if you were hoping to spend nothing, there are also a number of free VPNs available, just beware that some severely restrict which servers (and therefore countries) you can connect to and the amount of data you can download through those servers.

Our recommendation is ProtonVPN, which has a free tier that may be sufficient for your needs.

It’s important to read the terms and conditions before using a free VPN, as in rare cases they sell your data to third parties to offset the cost of you using it without paying. It’s a bigger problem on iPhones and Android where unscrupulous companies try to cash in on the VPN ‘gold rush’ and offer up poorly put together apps. Stick with our recommendations and you’ll be safe from these, though.

FAQ


1.

Do Macs have a built-in VPN?

There is a big question. Do Mac users even need a VPN? Since Apple introduced iOS 15 and macOS Monterey in 2021 the company has offered a handy private relay service. iCloud Private Relay acts a bit like a VPN because it encrypts your web-browsing traffic and sends it through a relay to hide your location, IP, and any information about what you were browsing. iCloud Private Relay solves part of the problem that Mac users have used VPNs for in the past–it means that companies cannot build a clear picture of you on the web, thereby protecting your privacy.

iCloud Private Relay has some disadvantages: it only works when you are using Safari, you have to be a subscriber to iCloud, and you can’t use it to pretend to be surfing from another country in order to access content that is locked to a particular region. Read more here: iCloud+ Private Relay explained.

If you are a subscriber to iCloud, and only use Safari, then iCloud Private Relay will provide you with some anonymity when you are surfing the web. You may therefore be thinking that this means you don’t need a VPN to hide your location and identity. However, iCloud Private Relay does not allow you to choose an IP address or a region, and you won’t be able to make it look like you’re coming from another location. So you can’t watch geographically locked Netflix content, for example.

2.

What’s a VPN?

VPN stands for virtual private network. If you’re not using a VPN, when your computer connects to the internet, it does so through the local gateway provided by your internet service provider (ISP). Doing this allows you to connect to all of the online services you use everyday.

However, connecting this way also allows an ISP to know your physical location based on where you access the internet—be it at home, at work, in a cafe, or at a public Wi-Fi hotspot. This information is often sold to marketers and other parties interested in getting to know more about you and your browsing habits.

Worse still, if you connect to the internet through an access point with weak security, such as at an airport, mall, or local library, hackers connected to the same network could intercept personal information like your social media passwords or banking credentials through what’s called a man-in-the-middle attack. A VPN service can help prevent all of that.

A VPN creates an encrypted digital tunnel between your computer and the server of the VPN service you choose to use. Once this tunnel has been established, your web searches, the sites you access, and the information you submit online will be hidden from prying eyes. This means that your ISP can’t log or sell your information and hackers using the same network as you will find it difficult to initiate an attack on you. Almost no one will have any idea of what information you’re accessing.

For our recommendations of Mac Antivirus Software that we have tested see: Best Antivirus for Mac 2024: Top Security Software Compared.
VPN apps are very easy to install and use but for a step-by-step guide, read how to set up a VPN on a Mac.

3.

What a VPN can’t do

A VPN can’t protect you from viruses, malware, or ransomware attacks if you choose to download an infected file, or a visit site designed to inject your computer with malignant code. It won’t keep spoofed sites from stealing your personal information, if you happen to visit one. So, you’ll want to bone up on online security best practices.

You should know that while using a VPN will allow you to anonymously engage in peer-to-peer file-sharing/torrenting, some service providers may cancel your VPN subscription or turn over your information to the authorities if they catch you trading copyrighted material with others.

4.

While accessing locked content is a bit of a gray area, due to licensing agreements, we don’t blame anyone who is desperate to watch the latest season of their favorite program when it airs in the U.S. rather than waiting for it to come to their country. Paying to watch a streaming service that’s not available in your country has to be less morally wrong than actual piracy! For more information on the legalities and whether it is safe to use a VPN read: Is a VPN safe for Mac?

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Shiba Inu Breakout Incoming? Bullish Setup Hints At Big Jump, Experts Say https://earlybirdsinvest.com/shiba-inu-breakout-incoming-bullish-setup-hints-at-big-jump-experts-say/ https://earlybirdsinvest.com/shiba-inu-breakout-incoming-bullish-setup-hints-at-big-jump-experts-say/#respond Tue, 24 Jun 2025 19:54:28 +0000 https://earlybirdsinvest.com/shiba-inu-breakout-incoming-bullish-setup-hints-at-big-jump-experts-say/

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Shiba Inu tumbled to an intraday bottom of $0.000010 on Sunday, marking its weakest point in 16 months. According to market analyst Tom Tucker, that low could set the stage for a sharp turnaround.

Related Reading

The meme coin has slipped 14% since June began and is off 37% from its May high of $0.00001764. Big holders are growing cautious too, with whale wallets down about 80% and open interest in Shiba Inu futures falling to $123 million—a level last seen in early April.

Double Bottom Pattern Offers Hope

Based on reports from Tucker’s June 22 chart examination, the meme coin appears to be forming a classic double bottom on its daily price graph. That pattern often signals that a sell-off has run its course.

SHIB first bounced off roughly $0.00001028 on April 7, climbing 70% to reach $0.00001765 by May 12. Now that the coin has revisited that support zone at around $0.00001030, traders will be watching closely to see if history repeats itself.

Support Zone Holds Crucial Key

According to Tucker, Shiba Inu needs to stay above $0.000010 to confirm the double bottom. The token has already climbed 7.7% from Sunday’s trough to trade around $0.00001081 today.

If the support holds firm, he predicts a 62% rally that would lift SHIB to about $0.00001752—practically matching last month’s peak.

Whales Exit As Risk Appetite Fades

The most recent decline in major holder balances suggests that there could be a shift in market sentiment among Shiba Inu biggest fan base. Whale positions have been 80% lower from its May high, and the decline in open interest hints that leveraged speculators are not taking as much risk. Those moves suggest caution is likely to persist until the buyers return en masse.

SHIB market cap currently at $6.8 billion. Chart: TradingView

Shiba Inu Team Urges Patience

Meanwhile, the Shiba Inu ecosystem’s marketing lead, Lucie, has asked the community to stay calm. Based on statements from the team, the rally to $0.01 is still the long-term goal, but reaching that milestone means to not “panic” and stay resilient.

Related Reading

Lucie reminded supporters that market swings are part of the journey and that holding through downturns could pay off down the line.

Investors seeking a clear entry point might find the present price action appealing. If SHIB manages to hold above that $0.000010 support, a rapid recovery is in the cards. But if the coin goes below that line, the next move down might take it to even lower levels.

Traders should be observing volume, whale actions, and the larger crypto market sentiment before making their next move.

Featured image from Imagen, chart from TradingView

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Experts’ predictions for Altcoin Season Trigger: When will Bitcoin control finally fall? https://earlybirdsinvest.com/experts-predictions-for-altcoin-season-trigger-when-will-bitcoin-control-finally-fall/ https://earlybirdsinvest.com/experts-predictions-for-altcoin-season-trigger-when-will-bitcoin-control-finally-fall/#respond Thu, 19 Jun 2025 02:20:47 +0000 https://earlybirdsinvest.com/experts-predictions-for-altcoin-season-trigger-when-will-bitcoin-control-finally-fall/

Bitcoin’s grip remains strong in the market. Its advantage, measured as a percentage of total crypto market capitalization, falls close to nearly 63.9% after winning a high of 65.3% in May.

Historically, such strength from Bitcoin has preceded a wide shift in which traders spin profits into smaller assets. However, this time, the shift has not been realized on a meaningful scale. People are wondering: When will the Altcoin season begin?

Many expected 2025 to be the year Altcoins made a comeback, but that optimism is beginning to fade and thin midway through the year.

Exploration: Only Fan Rich List 2025: Sophie Rain steals crowns as rifts appear in creator inequality

Still, experts agree: the Altcoin season is not dead, just delayed

This extraordinary dynamic explains several factors. One of the most important is the rise in institutional investors who currently view Bitcoin as a regulatory entry point to crypto. With the launch and rapid adoption of Spot Bitcoin ETFs, large capital flows directly to BTC.

In previous cycles, altcoins sometimes functioned as speculative stand-in for Bitcoin. Today, institutions have direct access to the BTC. This is exactly what they do. This shift has had a damping effect on other markets.

Bitcoin remains a consensus trade between institutions. The recognition of BTC as a safer bet backed by regulatory clarity and operational reliability makes it difficult for capital to spin towards the altcoin. In contrast, many altcoins still tackle smart contract risks, unclear regulations, and high centralization. This makes them reluctant to venture beyond Bitcoin, at least for now.

Bitcoin Dominance Chart Signal: Still in the BTC-led phase

Bitcoin's advantage in this cycle - when can you expect the Altcoin season?

(BTC.D)

Looking at the Bitcoin domination charts enhance this story. Approximately 64.8% of Bitcoin’s market share has been steadily rising since the second half of 2022. In contrast to the 2020-2021 Bull Run, BTC’s dominance peaked at ~73% before it fell rapidly and caused the altcoin season for Fulfurd.

The weekly charts consistently show highs and higher lows, with capital continuing to flow to Bitcoin while most Altcoins are behind. This advantage becomes even more clear on the ETH/BTC chart.

Bitcoin Ethereum Chart - When can you expect AltSeason?

(btceth)

Ethereum is struggling to surpass BTC. It remains relatively stable against the US dollar, but has lost its position against Bitcoin for nearly two years. Simply put, keeping BTC in ETH during this period provided better ROI.

Why is this important: ETH/BTC is often considered a proxy for AltCoin trust. When ETH works well against BTC, it usually directs risk appetite and a healthier Altcoin market. Meanwhile, the decline in the ETH/BTC ratio suggests defensive positioning and capital integration into Bitcoin.

Reown CEO Jess Houlgrave says Altcoins is behind as hype, not fundamentals, still driving many people. Bitcoin, meanwhile, cements its reputation for institutional trust, consistent utility and macro-relatedness.

Some crypto influencers believe that the biggest altcoin season in history could still begin in June. However, macroeconomic factors cannot be ignored. Geopolitical tensions, interest rate uncertainty and a cautious risk environment have made investors hesitate to embrace volatility. Liquidity also spreads thinly across the ever-growing pool of new Altcoin projects, attracting market attention.

As a result, there is a fragmented environment, and in a fragmented environment, there are very few altcoins that will maintain great momentum.

Ethereum accumulates quiet strength so that Bitcoin’s advantage is preserved

On the bright side, Ethereum sees a strong accumulation from whales and a steady influx into spot ETFs. Over 870,000 ETHs have recently been purchased in a day, making it the best since 2017.

Whales accumulate ETH during this altcoin season

(sauce)

Nevertheless, ETH prices have fallen slightly as the short positions of CME futures rose sharply, and now have net shorts of $1.55 billion. This reflects the popular delta neutral strategy. Investors will be longer via ETFs or spots, shortening futures to earn hedges and yields without direct price exposure.

If staking for US-based ETH ETFs is approved, this strategy will expand significantly, offering a return of nearly 8%. For now, the strong foundations of Ethereum are overwhelmed by sophisticated hedging activities.

For Crypto enthusiasts, for those who think it’s time for Bitcoin to eventually fall, the answer is not yet, and is soon. The Altcoin season can take some time, but it’s far from being cancelled. As Bitcoin surge plateaus and freshcapitals are looking for higher returns, the Altcoin market could be when it’s near the end of 2025 or into 2026.

Discovered: Top Solanamime Coins to Buy in 2025

Key takeout

  • Is Altcoin season nearby? Bitcoin’s advantage remains near 64%, showing no signs of a reversal and delays the start of a wide range of Altcoin rallies.

  • Institutional capital flows into BTC via ETFs, reducing Altcoin’s speculative interest compared to past cycles. Today’s institutional investors have prioritized Bitcoin, reducing liquidity in the broader Altcoin market.

  • Although Ethereum performs less than Bitcoin, whales accumulation and ETF influx suggest a quiet muscle build-up. Whales have accumulated ETH, and ETFs have seen a 19-day continuous influx.

  • The Altcoin season could emerge by the second half of 2025 as Bitcoin Plateaus and investors turn to riskier assets in search of stronger returns.

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Best NFT Casino Sites 2025 – Top 10 NFT Gambling Sites, Ranked By Experts https://earlybirdsinvest.com/best-nft-casino-sites-2025-top-10-nft-gambling-sites-ranked-by-experts/ https://earlybirdsinvest.com/best-nft-casino-sites-2025-top-10-nft-gambling-sites-ranked-by-experts/#respond Wed, 18 Jun 2025 19:55:51 +0000 https://earlybirdsinvest.com/best-nft-casino-sites-2025-top-10-nft-gambling-sites-ranked-by-experts/

You’ve probably come across the term “NFT casino” and wondered – do I need to actually own NFTs to play? Short answer: not necessarily.

The best NFT casino sites are really just next-gen crypto casinos. They’re sleek, fast, and built for players who want something more modern than the typical online gambling experience. Think smooth crypto payments, fresh game designs, and fewer hoops to jump through.

We chose Ignition as our top pick because it delivers on all fronts – great games, solid bonuses, and extra perks if you’re playing with crypto. But it’s far from the only one worth your attention.

Whether you’re into live dealers, slots, or just want a casino that doesn’t feel stuck in 2010, these NFT casinos bring something new to the table. So, let’s take a closer look.

Best NFT Casinos Online

  • Ignition: Best overall
  • Slots of Vegas: Up to $2,500 welcome bonus
  • Super Slots: Amazing live dealer section
  • Raging Bull Slots: Top pick for slots
  • BetOnline: Fastest payouts
  • Slots.lv: Biggest jackpots
  • Highroller Casino: Mobile-friendly casino
  • Black Lotus: Generous reload bonuses
  • Cafe Casino: Regular tournaments
  • BetWhale: 24/7 customer support

Want to find out more about the best NFT casino sites and how they work? Keep reading for our mini reviews.

1. Ignition – Best NFT Casino Online Overall

Ignition Casino US

Pros:

  • Up to $3,000 welcome bonus
  • 400+ real money games
  • Fast crypto payouts
  • Mobile-friendly website layout
  • Hosts regular tournaments

Cons:

  • Design could be better
  • Could use more slot games

Ignition lands high on our list of NFT casinos for one simple reason: convenience. It handles crypto smoothly, offers plenty of games, and keeps things easy for players who just want to sign in and start betting.

Game Library: 4.9/5

Ignition gives you access to over 400 games. Its slots section features standout titles like 777 Deluxe, Reign of Zeus, and Golden Buffalo – some of our favorite titles out there.

Looking for big jackpots? Then take a look at games like A Night With Cleo or Mister Money, both known for their big multipliers and exciting bonus rounds.

For table game fans, you can play Classic Blackjack, Zappit Blackjack, Tri Card Poker, and European Roulette. Poker players get their own section with daily tournaments, sit-and-gos, and anonymous cash tables.

Banking Options: 4.9/5

Ignition accepts several cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Bitcoin Cash, and USDT. These are the fastest ways to get your winnings, usually processed in under an hour.

Crypto deposits and withdrawals start at just $10, with a maximum of $9,500 per transaction. Most deposits reflect within minutes, so there’s no long wait to play casino games.

If you ever run out of crypto, fiat options are also available. This online gambling site supports Visa, Mastercard, and Amex. The minimum deposit is $20, and the maximum ranges from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the card.

Casino Bonuses: 4.9/5

The welcome bonus is one of the most generous among NFT gambling sites. New players get up to $3,000, split across the poker and casino sections.

There are also weekly free spins, reload deals, and loyalty rewards that scale with your play.

2. Slots of Vegas – Best Bonuses of All NFT Casino Sites

Slots of Vegas Casino US

Pros:

  • Up to $2,500 welcome bonus
  • 50 free spins included in the bonus
  • Up to 50% weekly cashback
  • Exclusive VIP bonuses
  • 24/7 customer support via live chat

Cons:

  • Could have more table games
  • Design could be better

Next up, we have Slots of Vegas, our top pick for bonuses. Let’s take a closer look at exactly what it has in store for you.

Game Library: 4.8/5

You’ll find just over 250 games, with a strong focus on slot machines from RealTime Gaming. Popular picks like Cash Bandits 3, Bubble Bubble 3, and Aztec’s Millions are all here, with many of them offering huge jackpots or bonus rounds loaded with free spins.

Table games are limited but include the essentials like blackjack, roulette, and Tri-Card Poker. Still, we would have liked to see more table games, especially when it comes to live titles.

Banking Options: 4.8/5

Slots of Vegas supports several popular coins, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Bitcoin Cash, Dash, Ripple, and USDT. The minimum deposit for crypto is $30, and withdrawals start at $100, with a maximum of $2,500 per transaction.

Payouts are usually processed within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your account status and the method used. For the fastest crypto payout, use CoinDraw, which can be completed on the same day. The minimum withdrawal for that is $20.

It also accepts Visa, Mastercard, and bank wire transfers. Card deposits also start at $30. Withdrawals for fiat players begin at $100 via bank transfer and can take up to 10 business days.

Casino Bonuses: 5/5

Bonuses are the main attraction at Slots of Vegas.

New players can claim a 250% match bonus with the code WILD250 on a deposit of $30 or more. It applies to popular slots, keno, bingo, and scratch cards, with a 10x playthrough and no max cashout.

The free spins come with a separate 10x wagering requirement and must be played before switching to other games. If you’re not feeling that bonus, go to the casino’s promotions page and find the best bonus code for you.

3. Super Slots – Best NFT Gambling Site for Live Dealer Games

Super Slots Casino US

Pros:

  • 70+ live dealer games
  • Supports 10+ cryptocurrencies
  • 300 free spins welcome bonus
  • Has virtual sports betting
  • 1,000+ online slots

Cons:

  • Could use better bonuses
  • Customer support is a bit slow at times

If you are after the best NFT casino for live games, make sure to take a look at Super Slots, which is home to some of the best live dealer casino games out there.

Game Library: 4.9/5

Super Slots offers over 1,250 games, including a strong selection of live dealer games, table games, and slot machines.

If you’re here for live action, this site doesn’t disappoint. There are 70+ live table games from Fresh Deck Studios and Visionary iGaming. They feature all sorts of live dealers for blackjack, baccarat, roulette, and more.

For classic table games and popular online slots, they have titles like Charms & Clovers, Dragon Blast, and Multi-Hand Blackjack.

Banking Options: 4.9/5

Super Slots supports a strong lineup of cryptocurrencies – Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Ethereum, Litecoin, Ripple, Stellar, and many more.

All crypto deposits have a $20 minimum and go up to a massive $1 million max, which is far more flexible than most NFT gambling platforms.

Crypto withdrawals start at $20, with Bitcoin capped at $100,000 per transaction and other coins generally ranging between $10,000 and $25,000 max.

For non-crypto options, Super Slots accepts Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, and a range of eWallets and banking methods.

Casino Bonuses: 4.7/5

New players at Super Slots can claim 300 bonus spins as part of the welcome package. These are delivered in chunks of 30 spins per day over 10 days after your first deposit. It’s a good spread if you like extending your play and trying out different slot games gradually.

After that, you can join daily cash races and freeroll tournaments to get a bankroll boost. They also have weekly promos like “Super Slot of the Week,” which gives you free spins on the casino’s game of the week.

4. Raging Bull Slots – Best Online NFT Gambling Site for Slots

Raging Bull Casino US

Pros:

  • 300+ slot games available
  • Accepts various cryptocurrencies
  • VIP perks for regular players
  • 24/7 customer support
  • 250% welcome bonus

Cons:

  • Design is not the best
  • Could use bonuses

Raging Bull Slots is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a full-on slots-focused casino with big jackpots, colorful themes, and a generous welcome bonus. It also offers table games and specialty games for more online gambling variety.

Game Library: 4.8/5

This NFT casino offers over 300 slot games, and its library is powered by RealTime Gaming. That means you’ll see popular titles like Panda Magic, Aladdin’s Wishes, Plentiful Treasure, and Cash Bandits 2, all packed with bonus rounds, free spins, and progressive jackpots.

There are also a few classic table games like blackjack, baccarat, and European roulette, but that’s not really the main focus here. If you’re mostly here to play online slots, this is where the site shines.

Banking Options: 4.7/5

Raging Bull accepts a solid lineup of crypto coins, including Bitcoin, Litecoin, and Ethereum. It also supports Changelly for other crypto options. Bitcoin deposits and withdrawals come with a minimum of $30 and a max of $100,000.

Bitcoin withdrawals take 7-10 business days, but if you want faster payouts, CoinDraw is a solid alternative. While the withdrawal speed here isn’t the fastest in the NFT gambling scene, the flexibility in coin options makes it workable for crypto users.

For fiat players, Raging Bull accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, and bank transfers. Deposits via card have a $30 minimum and go up to $1,000, with 3-10% fees and instant processing.

Casino Bonuses: 4.8/5

New players can claim a 250% match bonus with the bonus code SMART250 on a deposit of $30 or more. The bonus has a 10x playthrough requirement and no cashout limit. It can be used on slots, keno, bingo, and scratch card games.

Free spins are included too and come with a separate 10x wagering requirement. You’ll need to finish all the spins before switching games, and the match amount is non-cashable.

5. BetOnline – Fastest Payouts of All NFT Casino Websites

BetOnline Casino US

Pros:

  • Amazing game library
  • Payouts within minutes
  • 100 free spins and up to $250 free bets
  • 25+ years in the casino industry
  • Famous online sportsbook

Cons:

  • Could have more casino bonuses
  • Customer support is a bit slow

BetOnline stands out on this list of NFT casinos for one main reason: speed. If you’re all about fast payouts, especially in crypto, this is one of the best NFT gambling platforms around.

Game Library: 4.75/5

BetOnline features over 400 games, including online slots, live casino games, and classic table games like blackjack, roulette, and baccarat. The slot selection includes top titles like A Night With Cleo, Take the Bank, and Dragon Blast.

Its live dealer section is packed with tables from Fresh Deck Studios, offering blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and Super 6 with various bet ranges. Table game fans will also find Craps, Casino Hold’em, and even Draw High Low in the mix.

Banking Options: 4.8/5

BetOnline supports 10+ cryptocurrencies. That includes Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Bitcoin Cash, Ripple, Cardano, Dogecoin, Solana, Tether, and more. Most crypto deposits have a $20 minimum. Withdrawals range from $20 to $100,000.

Bitcoin and Litecoin payouts are especially fast, often cleared in a few minutes. There are no fees for crypto transactions, and deposits land in your account within minutes.

If you’re using fiat currencies, BetOnline supports Visa, Mastercard, Discover, Amex, and bank wires. Card deposits start at $25 with a $2,500 max, while Person-to-Person transfers start at $100. You can also use Money Orders (min $300) or a Check by Courier (min $500).

Casino Bonuses: 4.7/5

New casino players can grab 100 free spins on their first deposit, no bonus code needed. The free spins apply to select slot games and are credited automatically after you deposit.

BetOnline also runs rotating crypto promos like the 10% Bitcoin Boost, and separate bonuses for poker and sports betting, like free bets.

How We Ranked the Best NFT Casinos Online

Game Library

We gave extra points to platforms with a solid mix of games: slots, live games, table games, and even stuff like crash games and lottery. That variety’s important, and you shouldn’t have to bounce between ten gambling sites just to keep things interesting.

Banking Options

You’re looking at NFT casinos for a reason, so crypto support had to be more than just Bitcoin. The ones we ranked high let you deposit with coins like Litecoin, Doge, Ripple, and USDT, plus work easily with your crypto wallet.

Casino Bonuses

Next, we also considered the bonuses and promotions available for casino players. Apart from the size of the bonus, we also took a look at the terms and conditions to make sure they are fair.

Navigation and Customer Support

If the site was glitchy, slow, or confusing, that was it. We’re here to play games, not guess which tab leads where.

Now, what if something goes wrong? Well, we wanted customer support that shows up and actually solves stuff, not one that sends you canned responses or vanishes after midnight.

What’s an NFT Casino?

An NFT casino is an online gambling platform that uses non-fungible tokens in its gameplay, reward system, or payment options.

In truth, most NFT casinos right now function exactly like crypto gambling sites, where you can deposit with coins like Bitcoin, Ethereum, or USDT and play real money games like slots, blackjack, or roulette.

From our list, platforms like Ignition, BetOnline, and Super Slots don’t technically offer NFTs as assets you own or trade. But they still make the cut because they align with what NFT gambling platforms represent: anonymous logins, wallet-based deposits, instant withdrawals, and features that feel like they belong in the Web3 space.

What to Look for in an NFT Casino

If you’re thinking of trying out an NFT casino, don’t just sign up because the site looks neat or offers a giant welcome bonus. That doesn’t always mean the platform delivers when it counts. Here’s what actually matters when picking between all these new NFT gambling platforms:

  • Secure Gaming Environment: Look for platforms that use blockchain-backed systems, SSL encryption, and two-factor authentication. These are the basics of a secure gaming environment, especially when you’re betting with real assets like crypto.
  • Game Variety: A good NFT casino should offer more than just slots and blackjack. The best ones include niche titles like crash games, NFT games, and even lottery games. If a site is sticking only to classics, it’s probably not really Web3-ready.
  • Provably Fair Games Support: We’ll break this down more in the next section, but for now, know this: Provably fair games use blockchain tech to prove outcomes aren’t rigged. If a casino offers them, that’s usually a green flag for transparency and fairness.
  • Support for Responsible Gambling Tools: Even with all the freedom Web3 offers, the top NFT gambling platforms still make room for responsible gambling tools. That means wager limits, cooling-off periods, and access to support if you need a break.
  • Fresh Content from Leading Software Providers: A strong gaming library means having both quality and freshness. Look for online casinos that partner with leading software providers like Pragmatic Play, Evolution Gaming, or indie crypto-first devs.

Best NFT Casino Sites – FAQs

Can You Wager Real Money at NFT Casinos?

Yes, you can wager real money at NFT casinos using cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT.

These sites function just like traditional online casinos, but with crypto-friendly payment systems. Once your crypto is deposited, it’s converted into playable funds.

Are NFT Casinos Legit?

NFT casinos are legit as long as you play on licensed and regulated platforms. The best NFT gambling sites are backed by licenses from authorities like the Curaçao Gaming Control Board, ensuring a secure gaming environment and fair play.

What Games Can I Play at NFT Casino Sites?

You can play a wide range of casino games at NFT casino sites, including slot games, traditional casino games like blackjack and roulette, and even live dealer games. Some also offer crypto games like dice games.

Are NFT Casino Games Provably Fair?

Yes, many NFT casinos offer provably fair games, especially for dice games and crash-style betting.

This means game outcomes are verifiable through blockchain technology, ensuring the casino can’t manipulate results.

What Is the Best NFT Casino Site?

The best NFT casino site depends on what you’re after, but Ignition is currently our top pick overall. It blends crypto gambling, fast payouts, and a large gaming library. For slots fans, Raging Bull Slots is a standout, while BetOnline is best for fast withdrawals and live casino.

Steps to Get Started at the Best NFT Casino Sites

Most NFT online gambling platforms follow the same process when signing up, so to make it simple, here’s how to register and play at Ignition, our pick for one of the best NFT casinos:

Step 1: Sign Up for a Casino Account

  • Head over to Ignition Casino and tap the “Join” button
  • Fill in basic details like your email, name, and phone number
  • Pick a strong password and create your casino username

Step 2: Verify Your Casino Account

  • Ignition will send a code to your phone number
  • Type the code into the site to activate your account

Step 3: Make Your First Deposit and Start Playing

  • Select your crypto wallet or traditional payment method
  • Complete the deposit using the prompts provided
  • Go back to the casino lobby and start playing

Comparing the 5 Best NFT Casinos Online

  • Ignition: This is our favorite NFT casino site overall. Make sure to claim up to $3,000 in welcome bonuses on your first crypto deposit.
  • Slots of Vegas: Known for its generous bonuses, this NFT casino is a solid sign-up offer. Use code WILD250 to unlock a 250% bonus on your first deposit of $30 or more.
  • Super Slots: It’s our top choice for live dealer games, with 70+ live tables and solid crypto support. First-timers get 300 free spins as a welcome deposit bonus.
  • Raging Bull Slots: This one’s perfect for slot lovers, especially if you’re after high-volatility reels and themed jackpots. Use the bonus code SMART250 to score a 250% deposit match and get free spins on top.
  • BetOnline: If you want the fastest withdrawals around, BetOnline has you covered, especially with crypto. Make your first deposit and they’ll give you 100 free spins.

Tips for NFT Gambling for both New and Seasoned Players

Whether you’re new to NFT gambling or have already hopped between a few crypto casinos, it’s easy to fall into the same habits. But this space is evolving fast, and so should the way you play. Here are five tips that aren’t your usual “set a budget” advice:

  • Use Multiple Wallets: Don’t keep all your funds in one wallet. Separate hot wallets for gambling and storage wallets for your savings to help avoid overspending and improve security.
  • Track Your Winnings Manually: NFT casinos don’t always offer detailed betting history. Use a spreadsheet or a tracker app to log what you’ve played, especially on platforms with provably fair games.
  • Test Smaller Coins: If gas fees or delays bother you, try using altcoins like Litecoin or Dogecoin instead of Ethereum. They’re faster and usually cheaper to move around.
  • Play on Low-Traffic Hours: This isn’t talked about enough, but live dealers and support are often better during off-peak times. Fewer players, smoother experience.

Ready to Join the Best NFT Casino Sites Online?

You don’t need to be a crypto expert to enjoy what the best NFT gambling sites offer, but it helps to know which ones won’t waste your time. Fast payouts, wallet support, and solid casino games are simply the priority.

If you’re still unsure where to start, Ignition is what we highly recommend. It handles crypto well and gives out up to $3,000 in bonuses.

Still, every site on our list is worth signing up with (they’re all safe and legit!), so feel free to test them out yourself. No matter which site you choose, please always gamble responsibly.

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$200M Crypto Scam: OFAC Sanctions Funnull as Experts Find Ties to Huione Pay, Triad Nexus https://earlybirdsinvest.com/200m-crypto-scam-ofac-sanctions-funnull-as-experts-find-ties-to-huione-pay-triad-nexus/ https://earlybirdsinvest.com/200m-crypto-scam-ofac-sanctions-funnull-as-experts-find-ties-to-huione-pay-triad-nexus/#respond Sun, 01 Jun 2025 00:31:17 +0000 https://earlybirdsinvest.com/200m-crypto-scam-ofac-sanctions-funnull-as-experts-find-ties-to-huione-pay-triad-nexus/

The US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned Funnull Technology Inc., a technology firm headquartered in the Philippines, and its administrator, Liu Lizhi.

The company has been implicated in running a “pig butchering” scam.

$200M Scam Uncovered

According to the official press release, Funnull has stolen over $200 million from American investors. OFAC has also placed two of Funnull’s cryptocurrency addresses on its Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List to restrict their access to financial systems.

In response, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) issued a public advisory, outlining key technical indicators, such as infrastructure components and IP addresses tied to Funnull’s scam operations.

Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Michael Faulkender, in an official statement, said

“Today’s action underscores our focus on disrupting the criminal enterprises, like Funnull, that enable these cyber scams and deprive Americans of their hard-earned savings. The United States is strongly committed to ensuring the continued growth of a legitimate, safe, and secure digital asset ecosystem, including the use of virtual currencies and similar technologies.”

Connection to Triad Nexus and Huione Pay

According to the findings by blockchain intelligence Chainalysis, Funnull Technology Inc. enabled cybercriminals by purchasing IP addresses in bulk from major cloud service providers and selling them to operators of fraudulent investment platforms. This infrastructure allowed scammers to host malicious websites that mimicked legitimate investment platforms, thereby deceiving victims into investing in non-existent opportunities.

Funnull was a central player in a network dubbed by security researchers as “Triad Nexus,” which includes more than 200,000 unique hostnames, many of which are associated with investment scams, fake trading apps, and suspect gambling networks. OFAC identified two crypto addresses linked to Funnull Technology Inc., used for receiving cybercriminal payments.

These addresses are tied to scam-related infrastructure and show connections to Huione Pay, which was recently flagged by FinCEN as a major money laundering concern.

Further investigation by blockchain security firm Elliptic revealed that the two addresses in question received more than $4 million in total.

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