A cryptocurrency is a digital or virtual currency that uses cryptography for security. Cryptocurrencies operate on blockchain technology, ensuring decentralized management and protection against counterfeiting. They are not controlled by central banks or governments, making them independent from traditional financial systems.
Cryptocurrencies can be used for a variety of purposes: from exchanging for goods and services to serving as investment tools. Bitcoin, created in 2009, was the first and remains the most well-known cryptocurrency, but today there are thousands of different tokens and projects.