Here’s your warning: this is a blog for the conspiracy theorists. If you have full assurance the government is nobly working for the good of its people, and we have no reason to fear corruption or ruin, this blog is not for you.
Recently, a story was published that claims Europe is considering implementing a “security measure” which would allow the seizure of precious metals, bitcoin, prepaid cards, and cash from individuals deemed “suspicious.” Officials would be targeting those suspected of having ties to terrorism.
Currently, individuals must claim possession of cash in excess of $10,000 upon entrance into an EU country, which has allegedly increased the transport of alternative payment methods, like bitcoin, prepaid cards, and…precious metals. Leaders believe terrorists may be using this technique as a way to fund their malicious acts, like the tragedy in Berlin on December 19th.
In my opinion, this becomes a very slippery slope. What are the criteria for becoming suspect? It seems as if (according to the government) the mere fact that an individual possesses large quantities of cash or precious metals makes them “suspicious.” Without clear guidelines as to how a person’s potential threat level is to be evaluated, this type of legislature can lend itself to some serious corruption.
These regulations could make traveling with precious metals risky. I don’t think I would feel comfortable risking the forfeiture of my commodities based on who was working the border when I passed through and how threatening or suspicious they deemed I appeared. It’s likely I would raise alarms solely based on the fact that I am one of those people who is terrified when a police officer is driving behind me, despite the fact that I am never breaking a law. My anxiety would probably make a border patrol officer a little bit richer.
Not only does the vagueness of the proposed law allow for potential corruption at the border, but what can of worms are we opening by allowing fear to dictate so much of our legislature? I can easily see this bleeding into the country and affecting more than just travelers. Would purchasing precious metals grant you a spot on the EU watch list? Or, perhaps, you might just see a 1933-esque gold confiscation justified by a need for “national security,” rather than an economic crisis (though, it’s really about an economic crisis).
What are your thoughts? While terrorism is quite obviously a pressing issue, and something must be done to ensure citizens remain safe, do you think these proposed regulations are a fitting resolution? Or a thinly veiled attempt for government officials to exercise more control of its people and their assets? Lastly, does anyone recommend a good shovel for the hole in my backyard I need to dig to hide my stash?
First off, it’s Europe and Europe as it was once known, is dead. Their arrogance and socialism led to their downfall and now they are living with those past decisions. Right now, Europe…… it’s a great place to be FROM, but no where you want to be AT.
I would bet this originally was written by someone who had his citizens screaming at him to “make us safe” and he came up with this idea. I think the moving of liquid assets, as they think they are, is exactly what is happening today. In fact, they re probably terribly behind the curve and Bitcoin is likely being utilized extensively.
As far as it being intentionally vague, I’d bet that happened in order to facilitate more government actions in the future. But then again, it’s Europe, and most will probably go along with any confiscation “for the good of the collective”, as long as it isn’t them losing too much.
IMO, Europe has a tiny window in which to reverse the ismalification, but being so tolerant, they’ll miss it and never know it until the Queen is forced to wear a burka under her crown.
I agree. I certainly wouldn’t want to be living across the pond!