What is a digital signature in the context of cryptocurrency transactions?

@sibyl 

In the context of cryptocurrency transactions, a digital signature is a cryptographic mechanism used to ensure the integrity, authenticity, and non-repudiation of the transaction. It provides proof that a particular message, transaction, or data originates from a specific sender and has not been altered since it was signed.

A digital signature involves the use of public-key cryptography, where each participant in the transaction has a pair of cryptographic keys - a private key and a corresponding public key. The private key is kept secret and used to create the signature, while the public key is shared with others to verify the signature.

To create a digital signature, the sender uses their private key to apply a mathematical algorithm to the transaction data, generating a unique signature. This signature is attached to the transaction and can be verified by anyone with access to the sender's public key. The verification process ensures that the signature is valid, and the transaction has not been tampered with during transmission.

Digital signatures play a crucial role in cryptocurrency transactions, as they provide security, authenticity, and assurance that the transfer of digital assets or cryptocurrency is valid and cannot be altered without detection.