Proof of Concept: Verifiable Quotes on Blockchain
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2 minute read
This post demonstrates how quotes can be linked to immutable proofs on a blockchain and verified against source documents stored on IPFS. This approach ensures the authenticity and verifiability of quoted text by leveraging decentralized technologies.
How It Works
- Source documents (emails, articles, etc.) are stored on IPFS, a decentralized storage network
- Hash of the document and quote metadata is recorded on the Polygon blockchain
- Anyone can verify the authenticity by checking both the IPFS source and blockchain proof
Example Quotes
Here is the first example quote from an email:
"This is the first source document containing quote A. The quote is directly extracted from the original document without any modifications to ensure authenticity."
And here is another quote from a different source:
"Quote B originates from this document. This demonstrates how multiple sources can all be verified using the same system, creating a network of trust for all quoted materials."
Finally, a third example from a media interview:
"Our verified quoting system ensures that all statements are traceable back to their origins, maintaining integrity in an era where misinformation is rampant."
Verification Process
Clicking ‘[Proof]’ takes you to the Polygon blockchain transaction that contains the hash of the document and quote metadata. This proves when the quote was recorded and that it hasn’t been altered since.
Clicking ‘[Source]’ opens the original source document from IPFS via a public gateway. This allows anyone to verify that the quote appears in the original context.
Benefits
- Transparency: All quotes are linked to their original sources
- Immutability: Once recorded, quotes cannot be altered
- Verifiability: Anyone can independently verify authenticity
- Decentralization: No central authority controls the verification system
This proof-of-concept demonstrates the foundation for a trustworthy quoting system that can be implemented as a browser extension or integrated into publishing platforms.