Zcash is a blockchain and cryptocurrency launched in 2016 as a privacy-focused alternative to other digital currencies. The platform offers users the ability to make both public and private transactions, with the latter enabled by shielded transactions. This feature uses zero-knowledge proofs, specifically zk-SNARKs, to verify payments without disclosing sensitive information.
Source
"Zcash (ZEC) Explained: Shielded Transactions and zk-SNARKs" — The Block
This article is Bitcoincryptos' summary and analysis of reporting originally published by The Block. Read the full original report at the link above.
The use of zk-SNARKs allows Zcash to balance user anonymity with the need for network security and trustlessness. This approach has contributed to Zcash's emergence as a prominent player in the cryptocurrency market.