The 3 Cryptocurrencies That Best Protect User Identity

Privacy and anonymity have become key factors for many users when choosing which cryptocurrency to use. Athough Bitcoin and Ethereum offer a basic level of privacy, all transactions on these networks are visible to anyone who explores the blockchain. This means that, although your identity is not directly linked to a wallet address, with the right tools, it is possible to track your movements and link them to your real identity.

This is where privacy-focused cryptocurrencies come into play. These coins use advanced technologies to ensure that transactions are private, and hide both the amount and the sender and recipient. If you are concerned about keeping your identity hidden, these are the three cryptocurrencies you should consider:

1. Monero (XMR): The King of Anonymity

Monero is undoubtedly the most well-known cryptocurrency when it comes to anonymity and privacy. Since its launch in 2014, Monero has been designed to protect the identity of users through several advanced technical features:

• Ring Confidential Transactions (RingCT): Monero hides the amount transferred in each transaction, preventing any external observer from knowing how much money is being sent.
• Ring Signatures: These signatures combine the sender's address with other random addresses, making it almost impossible to know who made the transaction.
• Stealth Addresses: Monero generates unique addresses for each transaction, meaning that even if you share your public address, the transactions cannot be linked to you.

In addition, Monero has recently implemented the "Bulletproofs" update, which significantly reduces the size of transactions and, therefore, the fees, while maintaining the same level of privacy. This makes it the most privacy-focused cryptocurrency, and a very attractive option for those who want to make anonymous payments without worrying about their activity being tracked.

Monero is the favorite cryptocurrency in the Dark Web precisely because it offers a level of privacy that other cryptocurrencies cannot match. While Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies can be traced with the right tools, Monero protects each transaction in such a way that it is almost impossible to know who is sending or receiving funds, and even how much is being sent.

This has led to Monero being used in Dark Web markets for transactions ranging from digital goods to illegal services and products, although the use of Monero has also spread to privacy enthusiasts and businesses that want to make transactions confidentially.

2. Zcash (ZEC): Selective Privacy

Zcash is another privacy-focused cryptocurrency, but with a slightly different approach. Unlike Monero, where all transactions are private by default, Zcash offers users the option to choose between two types of transactions:

• Transparent Transactions: Similar to Bitcoin transactions, these are visible on the blockchain and do not offer anonymity.
• Shielded Transactions: Use a technology called zk-SNARKs (Zero-Knowledge Succinct Non-Interactive Argument of Knowledge), which allows a transaction to be verified without revealing details such as the sender, recipient, and amount transferred.

Zcash gives users the flexibility to make public or private transactions according to their needs. This makes it a good option for those who want occasional privacy and the option of transparency when necessary, such as in operations with regulated businesses that require a certain level of visibility.

3. ZEC: Optional Privacy Focus

Dash, which originally emerged as a fork of Bitcoin under the name "Darkcoin," has evolved significantly since its inception. Although not as private as Monero or Zcash, Dash offers a feature called "PrivateSend," which allows the sender's identity to be hidden using coin mixing (CoinJoin).

• PrivateSend: This feature combines your funds with those of other users in multiple transactions, making it extremely difficult to track the original funds. Unlike more advanced privacy-focused cryptocurrencies, PrivateSend is optional, and users can choose to use this feature only when necessary.

This makes Dash a good option for those who want a balance between privacy and functionality, as it offers fast and low-cost payment features, while also providing an optional privacy feature.

Which Cryptocurrency to Use?

If your priority is to maintain the highest level of privacy in your transactions, Monero is the best option. If you want the flexibility to make public or private transactions, Zcash is the best option. And if you are looking for a cryptocurrency with fast payment features and optional privacy, Dash is the best option.

Privacy is a right, but it is also a complex topic. Make sure to research and understand the implications of using privacy-focused cryptocurrencies before using them, and take the necessary steps to protect your online identity. Remember, true security in cryptocurrencies always starts with you!