More Bitcoin Controversy Craig Wright Backs Off From Claim He Invented Cryptocurrency

SYDNEY, Australia -- Australian academic and investor Craig Wright who recently claimed he was the inventor of bitcoin and would soon offer proof has backed off from those claims. Widely announcing that he was prepared to provide "extraordinary proof" he was the mystery man behind the cryptocurrency, Wright abruptly rescinded the offer. He did so in the brief statement, which follows in its entirety:

I'm Sorry.

I believed that I could do this. I believed that I could put the years of anonymity and hiding behind me. But, as the events of this week unfolded and I prepared to publish the proof of access to the earliest keys, I broke. I do not have the courage. I cannot.

When the rumors began, my qualifications and character were attacked. When those allegations were proven false, new allegations have already begun. I know now that I am not strong enough for this.

I know that this weakness will cause great damage to those that have supported me, and particularly to Jon Matonis and Gavin Andresen. I can only hope that their honour and credibility is not irreparably tainted by my actions. They were not deceived, but I know that the world will never believe that now. I can only say I'm sorry.

And goodbye.

Wright's sudden announcement and just as sudden reversal are only the latest plot twists in the troubled history of bitcoin. Since its introduction in 2009, the stateless currency has been plagued by scandals and intrigue. The digital currency has attracted speculators,criminals, online drug dealers and those fearful of governments, as well as the attention of various law enforcement agencies.