Zcash
Zcash is a privacy-focused cryptocurrency that uses zero-knowledge proofs to enable shielded transactions, where sender, receiver, and amount are encrypted on the blockchain. It offers both transparent transactions (like Bitcoin) and private transactions, providing users with optional privacy. Built on a fork of Bitcoin's codebase, it aims to enhance financial privacy while maintaining security and decentralization.
Developers should learn Zcash when building applications requiring strong financial privacy, such as anonymous payments, confidential smart contracts, or privacy-preserving DeFi protocols. It's particularly useful in scenarios where transaction details must be hidden from public view, like in sensitive business dealings or personal finance tools, while still leveraging blockchain's security benefits.