Updated on:12/07/2025 05:06 PM 
Former Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao experienced an unexpected social media setback when his X profile faced temporary restrictions shortly after stepping down from his executive position at the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange.
On November 23, users attempting to access Zhao's X account encountered a standard restricted account message, leading to widespread speculation within the blockchain community. However, the platform never fully blocked access, and by 22:00 UTC the same day, his profile had returned to public visibility.
Zhao suggested that the profile name change from "CZ Binance" to "CZ BNB" may have triggered X's automated security measures. This modification reflects his resignation as Binance CEO while highlighting his continued investment in the BNB token, which remains central to the exchange's ecosystem.
His updated profile bio now identifies him as the co-founder and former CEO of Binance, alongside his self-description as a "holder of BNB and BTC." Despite his significant stake in BNB, Zhao has publicly distanced himself from active involvement, stating that the token "doesn't need a CEO"—a position that has drawn mixed reactions from cryptocurrency investors.
In an interesting twist, Zhao addressed X owner Elon Musk directly, noting that the platform's "bot detection [algorithm] needs some work" after the incident demonstrated how anti-bot measures sometimes inadvertently target legitimate human users. This comes shortly after Binance and Zhao contributed $500 million to Musk's acquisition of Twitter in 2022, creating an ironic backdrop to this social media controversy.
The social media incident follows Binance's multi-billion dollar settlements with U.S. regulatory agencies, which the cryptocurrency exchange reached on November 21. These settlements resolved ongoing investigations and included criminal allegations that impacted both the company and its leadership.
On a personal level, Zhao pleaded guilty to the charges and secured release on a $175 million bond payment. Prosecutors have imposed travel restrictions, preventing him from leaving the United States ahead of his scheduled sentencing in February 2024. His resignation from Binance, previously reported, forms part of a broader corporate restructuring.
During Binance's mandatory three-year monitorship, Zhao's involvement with the company will be significantly limited. Notably, authorities have not specified any particular constraints on his public activities or social media presence, leaving room for continued influence in the cryptocurrency sector despite the legal challenges.
