Can the Quantum Resistant Ledger (QRL) protect Blockchains from Quantum Computer Security Risks?

Friends, the Quantum Resistant Ledger (QRL) project is a public Blockchain ledger designed to be secure against quantum computing (QC) advances. Unlike existing ledgers, the QRL is specially designed to use a form of post-quantum secure signature for transactions called XMSS. The QRL also uses a low power proof-of-stake (POS) algorithm which again utilizes iterative hash-chains and provably secure hash-based pseudo random number functions. The POS algorithm is designed to have zero reliance upon conventional signatures which are vulnerable to a sufficiently powerful QC and allows nodes to run on low power devices such as raspberry PI’s or laptops and passively earn income by staking. Quantum computers, with their increased efficiency, could solve it much quicker with their better computing capabilities. This could make current encryption technology ineffective and question the use of Blockchains. Let us know your thoughts today! Lawrence, Cryptocurrency Academy (https://cryptocurrencyacademy.blogspot.com)

A New Opportunity for Cryptocurrency Investors – the Coinbase Index Fund

Friends, when it comes to cryptocurrencies investors are beginning to have more options to select from. Most of the hype in the press and media is about individual traders who make or loose a fortune buying and selling Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, etc. I liken this to the Dot.com boom and bust of the late 1990s. In the past two years we have seen bona fide “investment” funds – both passive and actively managed – infiltrate the cryptocurrency and Blockchain arena including BLCN, BLOK, Bitwise HOLD 10 Private Index Fund, GBTC and many more. This list just grew by one – enter the Coinbase Index Fund which provides investors exposure to all digital assets listed on Coinbase’s GDAX exchange weighted by market cap. Investors must be US-residents and have a $10,000 USD minimum to invest. Send us your feedback. Lawrence, Cryptocurrency Academy (https://cryptocurrencyacademy.blogspot.com)

How will Blockchain transform the Cost of Trust paradigm?

Friends, a major goal of Blockchain technology is to save time and money for businesses and their customers -- the product of which will be increased trust and transparency in many currently opaque industries. As transactions are executed and settled on a distributed ledger (DLT), counterparties do not need to have an established trust relationship. Deloitte Technology Consulting believes a new "trust economy" is now developing around person-to-person Blockchain-enabled transactions that are not dependent on more traditional methods such as credit ratings or guaranteed cashier's checks. An immutable and distributed ledger can be more secure than even a centrally managed relational database because there is no single server or node to attack. Let us know your predictions. Lawrence, Cryptocurrency Academy (https://cryptocurrencyacademy.blogspot.com)

Assessing the impact of Blockchain on the future of Personal Genomics

Friends, professionals with even a superficial understanding of know that Cryptocurrencies are only the starting point for Blockchain technology to transform business models far beyond financial services and currency trading. Enter Personal Genomics which has the capability to transform Healthcare and Medical Services. Application of Blockchain will be a lifeline allowing to upgrade the development of Personal Genomics enabling each person the owner of his or her genetic data. Nebula Genomics – an offshoot of Harvard Medical School plans to address challenges facing Personal Genomics by mapping individuals’ genetic blueprints. Other vendors that are rapidly entering this segment include Luna DNA, Gene Blockchain  Encrypgen  Luna DNA  Zenome Longenesis , and Zenome. What will be the future impact when two transformational technologies – Personal Genomic and Blockchain – meet in the laboratory and ultimately the global marketplace? For further insights see the Center for Genetics and Society’s article entitled “Personal Genomics Meets Blockchain” and send us your comments. Lawrence, Cryptocurrency Academy (https://cryptocurrencyacademy.blogspot.com)

What is the best Cryptocurrency Mining Software for Your Needs?

Friends, cryptocurrency mining is rapidly moving from the realm of established firms and well-funded start-ups to individuals who want to cash-in on the cryptocurrency tsunami. Individual mining will give you large yet irregular payouts, whereas as pooled mining will result in smaller and more stable payouts. AvalonMiner 741, BitMain Antminer S9, T-bao Ethereum Coin Mining Miner and  Miner Baikal Giant X10 ASIC Bitcoin Mining are among the leading ASIC hardware mining devices. But which software should you use? Four products are top of mind. Yes, opinions vary, nonetheless, consider four of the top rated products including BTCMiner, CGminer, BitMinter and BFGminer. You want to ensure you select software that supports ASIC mining. Share your comments at the Cryptocurrency Academy (https://cryptocurrencyacademy.blogspot.com), Lawrence

How Can Blockchain Bolster Security for Federated Identity Management?

Friends, the intended purpose of Federated Identity Management (FIMS) is to enable registered users of a specific domain to access information from other domains without having to provide additional administrative information. So how can Blockchain enhance FIMS security or will Blockchain emerge as the backbone of a new universal Digital Identity System?? While Blockchain is not a security technology in itself, so the end game is to employ Blockchain as the underlying storage technology supporting a viable FIMS. Firms such as Credits.Vision, GEM, Ripple and many others are actively exploring this issue. What do you think? Share your comments with the Cryptocurrency Academy (https://cryptocurrencyacademy.blogspot.com). See you soon. Lawrence

Can Cryptocurrencies Escape From Under the Silk Road’s Dark Web Legacy?

Friends, Silk Road’s origins date back to 2011, some two years after the birth of Bitcoin. Operating as an underground exchange hidden within the dark web, it was largely known as a marketplace for illicit products and services (e.g. contraband and narcotics). As we fast forward to 2018 Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are known to be used for legitimate as well as shady business transactions which buyers and sellers want to keep out of sight from sovereign governments, intelligence entities and public corporations. Potential examples – suspected although not fully verified – may include the illegal exchange of weapons of war and biological agents as well as the vast arena of drug transactions (e.g. Russia, Iran, North Korea, Afghanistan, and related cartels). So why does this matter? Bottom line: If Bitcoin, Litecoin, Ethereum and other cryptocurrencies are to become accepted mainstream vehicles for global trade and commerce they will need to shed their dark sides. Is this possible? Share your thoughts with the Cryptocurrency Academy (https://cryptocurrencyacademy.blogspot.com) See you soon, Lawrence