Bitcoin Developer Mailing List Temporarily Suspended by Google Groups

On April 2, Bitcoin developer Ruben Somsen reported that the Bitcoin developer mailing list (bitcoindev mailing list) was temporarily inaccessible. According to Google Groups, the mailing list had been flagged for containing spam, malware, or other malicious content. Somsen clarified that, as far as he knew, no inappropriate content had been posted, and the list was undergoing manual review.

According to report by Cointelegraph, Bitcoin Core developer Bryan Bishop suggested that the suspension might have been triggered by mass reporting from multiple accounts, possibly by bots or individuals. Bishop described this as a common tactic used by attackers to censor or disable community platforms, noting that similar incidents frequently occur on platforms like YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok. Somsen later confirmed this theory, humorously stating, "Turns out we did get more info, but in our spam folder (ironic)."

The bitcoindev mailing list, hosted on Google Groups since February 2024, is a critical communication channel for Bitcoin Core developers and researchers to discuss the latest developments in Bitcoin. Such mailing lists are typically used by group subscribers to collaborate on shared interests or projects.

Google Workspace Support promptly addressed the issue, responding to Somsen's post within hours. The support team confirmed that the problem had been successfully resolved, restoring access to the mailing list for Bitcoin developers.

After this incident, Bitcoin Core developer Bryan Bishop, however, stated to Cointelegraph that the mailing list moderators plan to remain on Google Groups despite the incident. Bishop explained that Bitcoin developers have relied on email for discussing Bitcoin protocol development, emphasizing the importance of continuity. “In order to provide continuity of service, you have to replace it with email,” Bishop said.