Definition ∞ Cryptography and security in digital assets involves the application of mathematical techniques to protect information and transactions on a blockchain. This field encompasses encryption, digital signatures, hash functions, and secure communication protocols. Its purpose is to ensure data integrity, authenticity, confidentiality, and non-repudiation within decentralized systems.
Context ∞ News concerning cryptography and security in crypto frequently covers advancements in privacy-enhancing technologies, such as zero-knowledge proofs, or reports on security breaches and vulnerabilities. Ongoing research aims to develop quantum-resistant cryptographic methods to safeguard future blockchain networks. The integrity of digital assets fundamentally rests upon the strength of their underlying cryptographic foundations.