Binance co-founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ) recently called out blockchain company 5ireChain for using a selfie with him to suggest a potential collaboration. The controversy arose when 5ireChain shared a photo of their CEO, Pratik Gauri, alongside Zhao at an event. The post, which was later deleted, featured the two smiling and posing with their hands behind each other’s backs, accompanied by a caption that read “What’s cooking?” along with a handshake emoji, hinting at a possible deal or partnership.
However, Zhao swiftly responded to the post, clarifying that the selfie was simply a casual encounter at the event and that no discussions had taken place between him and Gauri. In his response, Zhao stated, “This is exactly how NOT to use a selfie with me. Nothing is cooking. Didn’t even have a chat. Just a selfie at an event.”
Following the backlash, 5ireChain removed the original post and replaced it with a more explanatory message. The new caption read, “Note: This post is not intended to imply any collaboration or partnership between our Founder & CEO Pratik Gauri and Changpeng Zhao. It is purely an appreciation post from our founder to recognize CZ’s unparalleled contributions to the blockchain and crypto industry. Truly a legend.”
Zhao also took to social media to caution against using such selfies for promotional purposes. He stated, “You should be alarmed if a person/project uses a selfie with someone else as promotional material. Posting selfies when I meet someone I like/admire is normal. But I would never use that to promote my project, unless with explicit permission.”
 recently called out blockchain company 5ireChain for using a selfie with him to suggest a potential collaboration. The controversy arose when 5ireChain shared a photo of their CEO, Pratik Gauri, alongside Zhao at an event. The post, which was later deleted, featured the two smiling and posing with their hands behind each other's backs, accompanied by a caption that read “What’s cooking?” along with a handshake emoji, hinting at a possible deal or partnership.){kind=link}