Commitment Scheme
Also known as: Cryptographic Commitment, Hash Commitment, Pedersen Scheme
A cryptographic protocol that allows one party to commit to a value while keeping it hidden, with the ability to reveal it later.
Cryptographic Methods
Advanced level
A commitment scheme is a fundamental cryptographic technique that enables one party to commit to a chosen value while keeping it secret, with the assurance that it cannot be changed later. The process involves two phases: the commit phase, where the sender generates a cryptographic commitment to a value, and the reveal phase, where the value and its proof are disclosed. These schemes are widely used in blockchain and zero-knowledge protocols to ensure fairness, privacy, and data integrity. Pedersen Commitments and hash-based commitments are common examples, playing roles in auctions, voting systems, and confidential transactions.