Eli Ben-Sasson: Zero Knowledge Proofs

Zero Knowledge Proofs are methods of providing cryptographic proofs to another party while keeping some information secret. The simple concept of ZKP offer tantalizing possibilities: Banks could prove solvency without revealing depositors. Governments could prove the fairness of an election without compromising privacy.

Computer science professor Eli Ben-Sasson joined us to discuss where blockchains and cryptocurrencies intersect with Zero Knowledge Proofs and related technologies such as zkSNARKs. It offered a fascinating view into what will surely become a core part of blockchain tech in the future.

Topics covered in this episode:

• What are proof systems?
• Zero Knowledge Proofs (ZKP) and other terminology such as SNARKs and zkSNARKs
• The mechanics of Zero Knowledge Proofs
• The role of performance in Zero Knowledge Proofs
• Applications of ZKPs
• The widespread potential impact of ZKP to verify processes

Episode links:

• Eli Ben-Sasson's Website
• SNARKs for C talk by Madars Virza
• Stackexchange: What are SNARKs
• SNARKs for C paper [PDF]
• Zerocash Talk

This episode is hosted by Brian Fabian Crain and Meher Roy. Show notes and listening options: epicenter.tv/116