The Matter Labs attempt to trademark “zero-knowledge” (ZK) technology faces strong backlash from the crypto industry, demanding its withdrawal.
ZK is a public good that should belong to everyone.
— StarkWare 🐺🐱 (@StarkWareLtd) May 30, 2024
Matter Labs, the corporate entity behind @zksync, has filed trademark applications in nine countries, claiming ZK as its exclusive intellectual property, even though they neither created nor contributed to the creation of this…
Matter Labs has recently stirred significant controversy in the cryptocurrency industry by filing trademark applications for the term “zero-knowledge” (ZK) across nine countries. This move has provoked strong reactions from industry leaders who view it as an attempt to monopolize a critical piece of cryptographic technology. Matter Labs, known for developing zkSync, had previously attempted to register a token under the ticker symbol “ZK” with various cryptocurrency exchanges, aiming to solidify their claim over zero-knowledge technology.
What is Zero-Knowledge Technology?
Zero-knowledge (ZK) technology is a type of cryptographic protocol that allows one party (the prover) to demonstrate to another party (the verifier) that a certain statement is true without revealing any information beyond the validity of the statement itself. This technology is foundational for maintaining privacy and security in digital transactions, making its potential monopolization a significant concern for the crypto community.
Eli Ben-Sasson, CEO of StarkWare, has been vocal in his opposition to Matter Labs’ trademark attempt, describing it as an excessive intellectual property grab. According to Ben-Sasson, zero-knowledge cryptography is a public good that can benefit everyone, and he likened Matter Labs’ attempt to trademark ZK technology to a baker trying to patent the concept of bread. Moreover, this sentiment is shared by many in the industry who see the move as a violation of the open and collaborative ethos that has driven advancements in blockchain and cryptographic technologies.
Prominent figures in the crypto industry, including Polygon co-founders Sandeep Nailwal and Brendan Farmer, Polyhedra Network co-founder Tiancheng Xie, and Turing Award winner Shafi Goldwasser, have signed a public letter urging Matter Labs to withdraw their trademark application. The letter emphasizes that ZK technology is a public good and that any attempt to annex it for private gain goes against the principles of the crypto and academic communities.
Potential of ZK Technology Beyond Blockchain
Zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs) have vast potential beyond their current applications in blockchain technology. Additionally, StarkWare’s Ben-Sasson highlighted the immense possibilities of ZK cryptography for humanity, suggesting that its applications could extend far beyond the realm of blockchain. For instance, ZK technology could play a crucial role in developing future digital identity solutions that prioritize user privacy.
Lastly, in Europe, ZKPs are the new digital identity systems that aim to ensure a privacy-focused approach to compliance. According to Dr. Jonas Gross, CEO of Hakata, ZKPs could revolutionize how identity information management by breaking down data silos and enhancing privacy.