What is Zk-SNARKs?
Zk-SNARKs (Zero-Knowledge Succinct Non-Interactive Argument of Knowledge) is a type of zero knowledge proof that enables one party to prove to another that they have knowledge of a certain piece of information without revealing the information itself. This is accomplished through the use of complex mathematical algorithms that generate and verify the proof. Zk-SNARKs are particularly useful in situations where the information being proven is sensitive and must be kept private.
Zk-SNARKs have become popular in the blockchain and decentralized finance (DeFi) space due to their ability to enable privacy-preserving transactions and smart contracts. With Zk-SNARKs, parties can transact with one another without revealing their identities or the details of their transactions to the public. This makes Zk-SNARKs useful for a wide range of applications, including privacy-preserving voting systems, secure data sharing, and digital identity management. Zk-SNARKs are also used in some privacy-focused cryptocurrencies, such as ZCash, to protect users' financial privacy.
Simplified Example
A simple example of Zk-SNARKs could be a case where a person wants to prove that they are over 18 years old without revealing their actual birthdate. The person generates a Zk-SNARK proof that they are over 18, and shows it to a bouncer at a bar. The bouncer can verify the proof without seeing the person's birthdate, and therefore allow them to enter the bar. This is an example of how Zk-SNARKs can be used to prove a certain piece of information while preserving privacy.
Who Invented Zk-SNARKs?
The term "Zk-SNARKs," an acronym for "zero-knowledge succinct non-interactive arguments of knowledge," was introduced by Nir Bitansky, Ran Canetti, Alessandro Chiesa, and Eran Tromer in their 2012 paper titled "From extractable collision resistance to succinct non-interactive zero knowledge proofs."
Examples
ZCash: ZCash is a privacy-focused cryptocurrency that uses Zk-SNARKs to enable confidential transactions. Users can transact with one another without revealing their identities or the details of their transactions to the public.
Aztec Protocol: The Aztec Protocol is a privacy-focused platform that uses Zk-SNARKs to enable confidential transactions and token transfers on the Ethereum blockchain. The protocol can be used for a variety of applications, including digital identity management and privacy-preserving lending and borrowing.
Privacy-Preserving Voting Systems: Zk-SNARKs can be used to create privacy-preserving voting systems that enable voters to cast their ballots without revealing their choices to anyone else. This can be particularly useful in situations where the privacy of the voters must be protected, such as in elections or corporate shareholder votes.
Related Terms
Zero Knowledge Proof: A cryptographic concept that enables one party to prove to another that they know a specific piece of information, without revealing the actual information itself.
Data Privacy: It's all about keeping personal information safe and secure.