Part 4/9:

Launched in 2016 by a team of scientists from esteemed institutions, Zcash builds upon Bitcoin's original code but integrates sophisticated cryptographic techniques to enhance privacy options. Unlike Monero, which mandates privacy, Zcash offers users a choice between shielded and transparent transactions.

Key features include:

• Zero-Knowledge Succinct Non-Interactive Arguments of Knowledge (zk-SNARKs): This allows one party to prove a statement's truth without disclosing any further information, enabling fully encrypted shielded transactions.

• Dual Transactions: Users can opt for transparent transactions, similar to Bitcoin, or shielded transactions that encrypt all sender, receiver, and transaction amount details for enhanced privacy.