Cruz Raises Concerns Over Law Enforcement Access
US Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) has blocked a bipartisan privacy bill designed to prevent Americans’ personal information from being sold by data brokers, citing concerns that it could restrict law enforcement from tracking down criminals.
The proposal, introduced by Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR), would prohibit data brokers from selling sensitive information — such as names, home addresses, and phone numbers — which has increasingly been used in stalking, harassment, and violent crimes.
Cruz, however, argued that restricting access to data could make it harder for law enforcement to monitor convicted sex offenders and protect children.
Details of the Privacy Bills
- Senate Bill 2850: Aimed at giving all Americans protection against data broker sales of personal information.
- Senate Bill 2851: A narrower version, which would cover lawmakers, state officials, survivors of sexual assault, and domestic violence victims.
Cruz blocked both versions, but emphasized that he is willing to work with Wyden to refine the legislation. “I don’t want Congress to do nothing and fail to take reasonable common sense steps,” Cruz said, while stressing the balance between privacy rights and security needs.
Why Privacy Matters
The debate comes as privacy concerns escalate in both politics and crypto communities. Data brokers currently collect and sell vast amounts of information, from financial details to home addresses, often to anyone with a credit card.
Such practices not only fuel aggressive marketing but also increase the risk of criminal exploitation. In the crypto space, where financial freedom and protection from surveillance are core values, the risks are even more severe.
According to a database managed by Bitcoiner Jameson Lopp, there have already been over 50 targeted attacks on crypto holders in 2025, many involving perpetrators who discovered victims’ addresses through leaked data.
Calls for Reform After Fatal Attack
Momentum for the bill gained traction after the assassination of former Minnesota Representative Melissa Hortman in June. Investigators believe the attacker obtained her home address through a data broker, highlighting the life-threatening dangers of unchecked data exposure.
Wyden Investigates Crypto Executive
Separately, Senator Wyden also confirmed a new investigation into Dan Morehead, founder of crypto venture capital firm Pantera Capital. Wyden alleges that Morehead improperly avoided over $100 million in US taxes by misrepresenting his residency status and exploiting Puerto Rico’s tax incentives.
The clash between privacy protections and law enforcement needs is set to remain a heated issue in Washington. For the crypto industry and broader tech community, the outcome could determine how much control individuals truly have over their personal data in the years ahead.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.