Study Guide for Blockchain for Virtual Document Issuance

Study Guide for Blockchain for Virtual Document Issuance

Ten-question short answer quiz

According to this document, what are the problems with traditional documents such as certificates?

Traditional documents, such as certificates, can be easily forged, especially using modern image processing software and color printers. In addition, copies of such documents (such as photocopies or copies) are difficult to authenticate because traditional notarization methods (e.g., by visual inspection or placement of a seal) are also insecure and can be easily forged.

How do virtual documents solve the problems associated with traditional documents?

Virtual documents solve the problems associated with traditional documents by creating an electronic file that contains all relevant document data as well as a proof of authenticity. This proof of authenticity typically involves entering a hash of the document into a blockchain, which provides a secure and tamper-proof record.

What is the purpose of the blockchain technology described in this document?

The purpose of the blockchain technology described in this document is to create a secure and efficient method for issuing and authenticating virtual documents, such as certificates or other documents.

According to this document, what is a "virtual document"?

A "virtual document" in this document refers to a data structure used for electronic data processing that contains the same data as a document as previously defined, but without a fixed corresponding physical document body. It is basically an electronic document that has no physical counterpart.

Describe the process of entering a virtual document into a blockchain.

First, a virtual document is created by the issuer's computer system.

Then, a hash value of the document is calculated.

Subsequently, an input request is created, which contains the hash value and the issuer's digital signature, and the request is sent to a server in the blockchain network.

The blockchain server verifies the request, and if the request is valid, it enters the hash value into a new block in the blockchain, completing the registration of the document.

Explain the role of the "modular program" in the issuance of virtual documents.

The "modular program" is a separate program stored on the blockchain that manages the processes associated with the issuance of virtual documents. It includes instructions for registering the issuer, entering the document hash value, processing legalization fees, and verifying the authenticity of the document.

How does an issuer register in the blockchain network?

The issuer needs to create a registration request that contains its public key and a valid registration password.

After receiving the request, the blockchain server verifies the registration password.

If the password is valid, the server creates a new block in the blockchain that contains the issuer's public key, completing the registration.

How can the authenticity of a virtual document be verified using the present invention?

To verify the authenticity of a virtual document, first the hash of the document is calculated.

The corresponding hash is then searched for in the blockchain.

If a matching and legalized hash is found, the authenticity of the document can be confirmed.

What role does the legalization fee play in this invention?

The legalization fee is used to cover the additional costs associated with the issuance and verification of virtual documents, such as maintaining the blockchain network and processing transactions. The issuer or document holder pays the fee to gain the right to legalize the document.

This invention describes the allocation of the legalization fee. Explain how this process works.

Once the document holder pays the legalization fee, the fee is allocated between different parties in the blockchain network, such as the issuer, the administrative entity (e.g., school authorities), and the blockchain provider. This allocation is performed via blockchain transactions, ensuring secure and transparent transfer of funds.

Five essay questions

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using blockchain technology for virtual document issuance over traditional methods.

Analyze the roles and responsibilities of different entities (e.g., issuer, holder, verifier) ​​in the system described in this paper.

Evaluate the effectiveness of blockchain technology in preventing fraud and ensuring the long-term integrity of virtual documents.

Discuss potential applications and benefits of implementing the invention in various fields (e.g., education, healthcare, supply chain management).

Analyze challenges and limitations associated with the invention and propose future directions to overcome these challenges and limitations.

Glossary of Key Terms

Term Definitions Blockchain A decentralized and tamper-proof ledger recorded in multiple computer networks. Virtual document A data structure used for electronic data processing that contains the same data as a previously defined document, but without a fixed corresponding physical document body. Hash value A unique and fixed-size value created from any type of data using a hash function. It is used to verify the integrity of data. Modular Program A standalone program stored on the blockchain that manages the processes associated with the issuance of virtual documents. Registration Password A unique and secret code used by an issuer to access and use the blockchain network to issue virtual documents. Legalization Fee A fee paid by an issuer or document holder to cover the costs associated with the issuance and verification of a virtual document. Issuer An entity (e.g., school, university, organization) that creates and issues a virtual document. Holder An entity (e.g., individual, organization) that owns and controls a virtual document. Verifier An entity (e.g., employer, institution) that verifies the authenticity of a virtual document. Smart contractA piece of code stored on the blockchain that automatically executes actions when predefined conditions are met. Public key cryptographyA cryptographic system that uses two keys, one public and one private. The public key can be shared with anyone, while the private key must be kept secret. Digital signatureAn electronic signature created using the issuer's private key that verifies the issuer's identity and ensures the integrity of a document. Distributed ledger technology (DLT)A database of transaction data that is shared, replicated, and synchronized by all participants. Blockchain is a type of DLT.