The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) detailed a program it is launching and is seeking research proposals for to help the Defense Department (DoD) understand zero-knowledge proofs in a July 18 news release.
The Securing Information for Encrypted Verification and Evaluation (SIEVE) program aims to increase the efficiency and technology behind zero-knowledge proofs, or a method by which one party can prove to another that they know specific knowledge without revealing sensitive information.
DARPA cited that zero-knowledge proof use has seen an uptick in use and efficiency in recent years, particularly in cryptocurrency, but the agency added that it initiated SIEVE to help DoD adopt zero-knowledge proof strategies in its mission.
“SIEVE aims to develop computer science theory and software that can generate mathematically verifiable statements that can be shared publicly [sic] without giving sensitive information away. Under the program, researchers will explore the creation of verifiable public statements about software, general computations, as well as social-technical interactions,” DARPA said.
Earlier this week, DARPA issued a pre-solicitation stating that it is seeking research proposals in zero-knowledge proofs as part of SIEVE. Particularly, DARPA said proposed research “should investigate innovative approaches that enable revolutionary advances in science, devices, or systems.”