# Open-source private cryptocurrencies

5 open-source private cryptocurrencies rated against public privacy criteria.

1. [Bitcoin](https://privacyratings.com/cryptocurrencies/bitcoin/): A (100/100). Decentralized cryptocurrency and payment network. Every transaction, address and amount is recorded on a public blockchain, so payments are pseudonymous rather than private.
2. [Monero](https://privacyratings.com/cryptocurrencies/monero/): A (100/100). Cryptocurrency that hides the sender, receiver and amount of every transaction by default, using ring signatures, stealth addresses and RingCT.
3. [Bittensor](https://privacyratings.com/cryptocurrencies/bittensor/): B (80/100). Decentralized network where subnets compete to produce machine learning and other digital work, rewarded in its TAO token. All transactions and balances are recorded on a public blockchain.
4. [Ethereum](https://privacyratings.com/cryptocurrencies/ethereum/): B (75/100). Decentralized blockchain platform for smart contracts and applications, with Ether as its native currency. All transactions and contract activity are recorded on a public blockchain.
5. [Zcash](https://privacyratings.com/cryptocurrencies/zcash/): C (70/100). Cryptocurrency that uses zero-knowledge proofs to offer shielded transactions, which hide the sender, receiver and amount. Transparent transactions are also supported, so privacy depends on using shielded addresses.

Source: https://privacyratings.com/open-source/cryptocurrencies/