Definition ∞ One-time masks are cryptographic elements used to obscure data, typically in a single, unrepeatable operation. In cryptography, a one-time mask, often related to a one-time pad, involves combining a message with a random, secret key of the same length to produce ciphertext. The key is used only once and then discarded, providing theoretically unbreakable encryption if implemented correctly. This technique ensures that even with unlimited computational power, an adversary cannot gain information about the original message from the ciphertext.
Context ∞ While offering strong security, the practical challenges of generating, distributing, and securely managing truly random, single-use keys limit the widespread application of one-time masks in general blockchain transactions. News in advanced cryptography or secure communication might discuss their theoretical applications or specialized uses in highly sensitive, offline contexts. Research often explores how to approximate their security properties in more scalable systems.
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