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Are public keys in bitcoin encrypted?

avatarGwendolyn HudsonNov 27, 2021 · 3 years ago3 answers

Can you explain whether public keys in bitcoin are encrypted or not? I'm trying to understand the security measures in place for bitcoin transactions.

Are public keys in bitcoin encrypted?

3 answers

  • avatarNov 27, 2021 · 3 years ago
    Yes, public keys in bitcoin are encrypted. When a user creates a bitcoin wallet, a pair of cryptographic keys is generated: a public key and a private key. The public key is derived from the private key through a mathematical algorithm. While the public key is not directly encrypted, it is derived from an encrypted private key. This encryption ensures that only the corresponding private key can decrypt and sign transactions using the public key.
  • avatarNov 27, 2021 · 3 years ago
    Public keys in bitcoin are not encrypted in the traditional sense. Instead, they are derived from an encrypted private key. The private key is encrypted using elliptic curve cryptography, which ensures that only the owner of the private key can decrypt and sign transactions using the corresponding public key. This encryption scheme provides a high level of security for bitcoin transactions.
  • avatarNov 27, 2021 · 3 years ago
    Public keys in bitcoin are not encrypted, but they are derived from an encrypted private key. This encryption scheme ensures that only the owner of the private key can use the corresponding public key to sign transactions. It's important to note that encryption is just one aspect of the security measures in place for bitcoin transactions. Other factors, such as the decentralized nature of the blockchain and the use of cryptographic hashes, also contribute to the overall security of the bitcoin network.