Are there any potential drawbacks or limitations of using zk-snarks in the context of digital currencies?

7 answers

• Levente SimonJan 16, 2021 · 5 years ago
  Using zk-snarks in the context of digital currencies can have some potential drawbacks and limitations. While zk-snarks provide enhanced privacy and security by allowing users to prove the validity of a transaction without revealing any sensitive information, there are a few concerns to consider. One limitation is the computational overhead required to generate and verify zk-snarks proofs, which can slow down transaction processing times. Additionally, zk-snarks rely on trusted setup ceremonies, which introduce a level of centralization and potential vulnerability. However, ongoing research and development aim to address these limitations and improve the efficiency and security of zk-snarks in digital currencies.
  722

  361
• Kaushal kolDec 20, 2024 · a year ago
  When it comes to using zk-snarks in digital currencies, there are a few potential drawbacks and limitations to be aware of. Firstly, zk-snarks require a significant amount of computational power to generate and verify proofs, which can impact transaction speed and scalability. Secondly, the reliance on trusted setup ceremonies raises concerns about the security and trustworthiness of the system. Lastly, zk-snarks may not be suitable for all types of digital currencies, as their implementation and integration can be complex. Despite these limitations, zk-snarks offer valuable privacy features and can enhance the security of digital currency transactions.
  661

  221
• Dillon VatickJul 01, 2025 · 7 months ago
  In the context of digital currencies, zk-snarks do come with some potential drawbacks and limitations. One limitation is the need for a trusted setup, which can introduce a level of centralization and raise concerns about the security of the system. Additionally, the computational overhead required for zk-snarks can slow down transaction processing times, impacting scalability. However, it's worth noting that ongoing research and development in the field aim to address these limitations and improve the efficiency and security of zk-snarks in digital currencies.
  567

  142
• Michał BizielAug 12, 2022 · 4 years ago
  BYDFi recognizes that there may be potential drawbacks or limitations when using zk-snarks in the context of digital currencies. While zk-snarks offer enhanced privacy and security, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. One limitation is the computational overhead required for generating and verifying zk-snarks proofs, which can impact transaction speed. Additionally, the reliance on trusted setup ceremonies raises concerns about centralization and potential vulnerabilities. However, BYDFi is actively working on addressing these limitations and exploring ways to optimize the use of zk-snarks in digital currencies.
  631

  127
• Ganesh-ATMar 10, 2025 · a year ago
  Using zk-snarks in the context of digital currencies can have some limitations and potential drawbacks. One limitation is the need for a trusted setup, which can introduce a level of centralization and raise concerns about the security of the system. Additionally, the computational complexity of zk-snarks can slow down transaction processing times, affecting scalability. However, it's important to note that ongoing research and development in the field aim to mitigate these limitations and improve the efficiency and security of zk-snarks in digital currencies.
  566

  95
• Anwar AbuukarMay 03, 2022 · 4 years ago
  When it comes to digital currencies, zk-snarks do have some potential drawbacks and limitations. One limitation is the computational overhead required for generating and verifying zk-snarks proofs, which can impact transaction speed and scalability. Additionally, the reliance on trusted setup ceremonies raises concerns about centralization and potential vulnerabilities. However, despite these limitations, zk-snarks offer valuable privacy features and can enhance the security of digital currency transactions.
  513

  74
• Bush McManusMay 21, 2022 · 4 years ago
  In the context of digital currencies, there are a few potential drawbacks and limitations of using zk-snarks. One limitation is the computational complexity involved in generating and verifying zk-snarks proofs, which can slow down transaction processing times. Additionally, the reliance on trusted setup ceremonies introduces a level of centralization and potential vulnerability. However, ongoing research and development aim to address these limitations and improve the efficiency and security of zk-snarks in digital currencies.
  533

  67