- Buterin proposes ZK-proving all algorithm decisions and publishing code to prevent censorship and ensure platform transparency.
- ZK rollups now secure $100B in stablecoin transactions and are used by major firms, showing rapid mainstream adoption.
- GKR protocol allows full nodes on standard hardware, lowering barriers and improving Ethereum network accessibility and robustness.
Ethereum cofounder Vitalik Buterin is urging social media platforms to adopt radical transparency. On X, he proposed ZK-proving every algorithmic decision, ideally timestamping content, likes, and retweets on-chain.
He also suggested publishing full algorithm code after a one- to two-year delay. His comments come in response to Davide Crapis, who argued platforms claiming to support free speech should disclose and allow tweaking of algorithm optimization targets.
Buterin’s proposal aims to prevent censorship and manipulation by servers. He stressed, “I would go further. ZK-prove every decision made by the algorithm… and commit to publishing the full algorithm code.” Besides increasing trust, this approach could allow users to verify platform behavior independently. Consequently, such transparency could reshape social media governance and accountability.
ZK Technology Adoption Accelerates
Zero-knowledge (ZK) technology has grown rapidly in recent years. As of 2025, over $28 billion in value locks exist within ZK-based protocols. Major corporations, including Goldman Sachs, Sony, and Deutsche Bank, now use ZK rollups for transaction security, NFT verification, and compliance operations.
Additionally, stablecoin transactions on ZK rollups exceed $100 billion, with USDT and USDC representing the largest shares. Hence, ZK adoption is moving beyond experimental use, becoming a mainstream financial infrastructure.
Buterin’s GKR protocol makes zero-knowledge (ZK) technology much easier to use. Now, regular people can run full Ethereum nodes on normal computers, something that used to require advanced setups.
This improvement also speeds up processing and makes it simpler for more users to join the network. As a result, Ethereum and other blockchains become stronger, more reliable, and easier for everyone to access.
Implications for Free Speech and Governance
Beyond technical efficiency, Buterin ties ZK technology to social concerns. He previously warned about platforms amplifying coordinated hate and misinformation, stating that turning X into a “death star laser for coordinated hate sessions” could undermine free speech values.
By making algorithms transparent and using ZK proofs, social networks could better protect users while keeping the platform fair. Also, recording actions on-chain would create an accurate history, stopping any retroactive changes or hidden censorship.
