LeoGlossary: Public Key

Used in peer-to-peer (P2P) transactions without the need to reveal one's private key.

This is a series of alphanumeric characters used to encrypt plain text messages into ciphertext.

The private key allows one to send a message while the public key is what decrypts it.

For example, the public key is what allows a wallet to receive cryptocurrency while the private key enables one to prove one is the owner.