Glossary for Module

1. Web3

• Definition: The third iteration of the internet focused on decentralization, transparency, and user control over data, built on blockchain technology.

• Significance: Offers a more private and secure alternative to centralized Web2 platforms.

2. Decentralization

• Definition: The removal of central intermediaries in favor of distributed networks.

• Significance: Reduces risks of censorship, monopolization, and single points of failure.

3. Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI)

• Definition: Digital identity entirely controlled by the user.

• Significance: Empowers users to decide who can access specific parts of their information.

4. Privacy Coins

• Definition: Cryptocurrencies designed to enhance anonymity and protect transaction details.

• Example: Monero, Zcash.

5. Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZKP)

• Definition: A cryptographic method that proves the validity of information without revealing the underlying data.

• Significance: Enhances transaction privacy.

6. Cryptographic Hashing

• Definition: The process of creating a unique digital signature for data.

• Significance: Ensures data integrity in blockchain systems.

7. Ring Signatures

• Definition: A mechanism for signing transactions anonymously within a group, making it impossible to determine which member created the signature.

• Example: Used in Monero.

8. Decentralized Applications (dApps)

• Definition: Applications running on decentralized networks like Ethereum.

• Significance: Ensure transparency and user control over data.

9. Blockchain-Based Transactions

• Definition: Transactions recorded on the blockchain, where users interact using pseudonyms.

• Limitations: Pseudonymity can be compromised through data analysis.

10. Homomorphic Encryption

• Definition: Encryption that allows computations to be performed on encrypted data without decryption.

• Significance: Preserves privacy even during data processing.

11. Privacy-Preserving Applications

• Definition: Applications that minimize data collection and usage while enhancing user anonymity.

• Example: Decentralized social networks like Mastodon.

12. Privacy Frameworks

• Definition: A set of principles and guidelines for protecting personal data.

• Example: GDPR, NIST Privacy Framework.

13. Compliance

• Definition: Adherence to regulatory requirements and standards.

• Example: GDPR compliance for companies operating in the EU.

14. Data Sovereignty

• Definition: User control over their data, including access and sharing permissions.

• Significance: Promotes transparency and accountability.

15. Anonymity

• Definition: The ability of users to remain unidentified while interacting with systems.

• Significance: A core goal of privacy-focused Web3 systems.

16. Smart Contracts

• Definition: Self-executing agreements with terms coded into the blockchain.

• Significance: Reduces risks of fraud and eliminates reliance on intermediaries.

17. Data Minimization

• Definition: Collecting only the data necessary to perform specific tasks.

• Significance: Reduces the risk of breaches and misuse.

18. Privacy Threats

• Definition: Risks associated with breaches of user data privacy.

• Examples: Linking, Identifying, Non-Repudiation.

19. Unawareness

• Definition: Users’ lack of understanding about how their data is collected or used.

• Significance: Erodes trust in platforms.

20. LINDDUN

• Definition: A privacy threat modeling methodology covering Linking, Identifying, Non-repudiation, Detecting, Data disclosure, Unawareness, and Non-compliance.

• Significance: Aids in designing privacy-respecting systems.