Starknet shields 45 assets with new privacy framework

Starknet just rolled out privacy protection for 45 ERC-20 assets through its new STRK20 framework, branded as Shieldnet. The system uses client-side zero-knowledge proofs to convert tokens into encrypted notes, making transaction details invisible to outside observers while still allowing selective disclosure for regulatory compliance. How Shieldnet actually works The STRK20 framework operates on a note-based ZK system. When users interact with it, their assets are converted into encrypted notes that appear only as metadata on-chain. The sender, receiver, and transfer amounts are all hidden from public view. This is fundamentally different from crypto mixers like the now-sanctioned Tornado Cash. Rather than pooling funds together to obscure their origins, Shieldnet enables selective lawful disclosure through encrypted viewing keys. Users can share these keys with regulators or auditors when required, revealing only the relevant transaction data while keeping everything else confidential. The framework supports shielded transactions across DeFi applications, not just simple transfers. Protocols like AVNU and Ekubo are already integrated, meaning users can swap and provide liquidity ...