CZ red flag: Changpeng Zhao warns that using selfies with him as social proof is a red flag for crypto projects — photos with CZ are not endorsements. Verify project claims independently; a selfie does not imply backing or due diligence by CZ or Binance.
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Photos with CZ are not endorsements
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He recommends leaving a business card or QR code for Signal/WhatsApp instead of gifts.
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At events he may take ~600 selfies in 30 minutes — this pace prevents vetting each project.
Meta description: CZ red flag — photos with CZ are not endorsements. Verify crypto projects independently; learn how to spot selfie-backed scams. Read expert guidance now.
Published: 2025-08-25 | Updated: 2025-08-25
What is the CZ red flag regarding selfies and endorsements?
The CZ red flag is when projects use photos of Changpeng Zhao with founders or teams as implied endorsement. CZ has stated clearly that photos with CZ are not endorsements, because at conferences he often takes hundreds of selfies quickly and cannot vet each project.
Why does CZ warn against using selfies as proof of endorsement?
CZ explained at WebX2025 in Tokyo that after speaking he often spends time taking many photos with attendees. When organized well he can take roughly 600 selfies in 30 minutes, about three seconds per photo.
Because of this pace, he cannot meaningfully evaluate projects on the spot. He advised people not to assume endorsement from a photo and said he prefers contact via a business card or a QR code for Signal or WhatsApp.
How should users verify projects that show photos with CZ?
Verify project claims through on-chain data, official whitepapers, team histories, and registered corporate records. Treat images with influencers as anecdotal, not factual, evidence of backing.
What did CZ say about the AI race and its risks?
At WebX2025 CZ offered an ironic take on the current AI race. He named industry players like OpenAI (ChatGPT) and xAI (Grok) as examples and noted a paradox: groups racing to prevent dangerous AI are simultaneously competing to build the most advanced systems.
He clarified he supports tech and AI development but urged public debate about safety and governance rather than relying on symbolic statements alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are photos with CZ formal endorsements?
No. Photos with CZ are not endorsements. He has stated repeatedly that he usually has no idea what people in photos are creating and does not endorse projects based on images alone.
How can I confirm if a project is legitimately supported?
Check on-chain records, audited smart contracts, reputable audits, team credentials, and independent media coverage. Use documented partnerships and verified announcements rather than social images.
How can community members avoid selfie-backed scams?
Follow a step-based verification process to avoid falling for projects that leverage celebrity photos as social proof.
Key Takeaways
- Photos are not endorsements: Treat selfies with CZ as anecdotal, not proof of backing.
- Verify independently: Use on-chain data, audits, and official statements to confirm claims.
- Be cautious at events: High-volume photo sessions mean influencers cannot vet every project; prioritize verifiable evidence.
Conclusion
This report documents CZ’s warning at WebX2025: photos with CZ are not endorsements. Investors and users should prioritize verifiable data, independent audits, and documented announcements over images. For reliable coverage and updates, follow COINOTAG reporting and confirm project claims through documented, verifiable sources.
