How to Prove a File Existed Before a Certain Date Using Bitcoin (Without Running a Node)
The article discusses a method for proving that a file existed before a certain date using Bitcoin without running a node. It introduces OpenTimestamps and PowForge Witness (PFWIT) as solutions to the timestamp problem by leveraging Bitcoin's blockchain. The process involves submitting file hashes to a Merkle tree and obtaining a verifiable timestamp linked to Bitcoin transactions.
- ▪OpenTimestamps aggregates many hashes into a Merkle tree and anchors the root in a Bitcoin transaction.
- ▪PowForge Witness (PFWIT) provides an HTTP endpoint to facilitate the timestamping process.
- ▪Once a Bitcoin block confirms the transaction, the timestamp becomes provable and can be independently verified.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
try { if(localStorage) { let currentUser = localStorage.getItem('current_user'); if (currentUser) { currentUser = JSON.parse(currentUser); if (currentUser.id === 3866714) { document.getElementById('article-show-container').classList.add('current-user-is-article-author'); } } } } catch (e) { console.error(e); } Zeke Posted on May 23 How to Prove a File Existed Before a Certain Date Using Bitcoin (Without Running a Node) #bitcoin #blockchain #security #opensource The timestamp problem You ship a file. A week later, someone claims they had the same idea first.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at DEV.to (Top).
Discussion
0 commentsMore from DEV.to (Top)
