Coinbase, one of the top exchange platforms around the globe has blocked WikiLeaks shop from the platform. Coinbase has accused WikiLeaks shop of engaging in prohibited use which is in violation of their terms and conditions and has requested WikiLeaks to follow the instruction provided on the website and transfer the remaining balance offsite to an external address.

WikiLeaks shop is a merchandising platform which sells T-shirts, pullover hoodies, posters, mousepads etc to support WikiLeaks operations.

WikiLeaks is a non-profit international organization that releases classified news information which is provided by anonymous sources. According to many from the community, it is prominently known for publishing news regarding Hilary Clinton’s campaign managers emails during the 2016 US Presidential campaigns Afghanistan war.

WikiLeaks Shop had opened an account on Coinbase in order to receive payments in cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, LiteCoin, Bitcoin Cash, Dash, Dogecoin, Neo, Namecoin, Vertcoin, Monero & ZCash.

The mail sent to WikiLeaks shop doesn’t press on the exact reason as to why they are removed. This led to WikiLeaks calling for a global blockade of Coinbase on Twitter which says:

“WikiLeaks will call for a global blockade of Coinbase next week as an unfit member of the crypto community. Coinbase, a large Californian Bitcoin processor, responding to a concealed influence, has blocked the entirely harmless WikiLeaks Shop in a decision approved by management.”

Andreas M Antonopoulos, a well-known Bitcoin and Blockchain enthusiast says:

“We have come full circle. Many people’s interest in bitcoin started when Wikileaks was out under an extra judicial embargo by VISA, MC, PayPal and banks. Now Coinbase has repeated history. Oops.”

Ataraxia Investor, a Twitterati says:

“No difference between Coinbase and the banking Cartel, except that Coinbase is less secure, less insured, and less professional.”

Sheekhtoshi, an LTC investors says:

“I don’t think We’re at that stage to boycott anything in the space, but we definitely need to shift everyone to decentralized exchanges gradually, then we won’t have these types of financial censorship.”

Senthil, another Twitterati says:

“The irony in this hurts me. Coinbase exists today because of Bitcoin which is the ultimate expression of freedom and yet they stop their services to WikiLeaks? Excellent Coinbase , while you rack up millions, don’t forget who made it possible for you”

Zysl also spoke regarding the matter, says:

“Literally the first time I’ve disagreed with Wikileaks on something. Never thought the day would come. Shouldn’t stoop to the lows of others. If they don’t want you just use a different service, there’s so many anyways. A “blockade” seems a bit… elementary.”