Privacy Glossary
Initialization Vector (IV)
Random data ensuring identical messages encrypt differently
In Short
A random value used with an encryption key to ensure the same plaintext encrypts to different ciphertext each time.
Explained
An initialization vector (IV) or nonce adds randomness to encryption. Without it, encrypting the same message twice would produce identical ciphertext, potentially revealing patterns. Each message should use a unique, random IV.
How zkChat Implements This
zkChat generates a fresh 96-bit random IV for every single message using the Web Crypto API's secure random generator. This IV is transmitted alongside the ciphertext (it's not secret) and ensures your repeated 'ok' messages all look completely different when encrypted.
Related Concepts
See It In Action
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