# Introduction to Crypto **What is Cryptocurrency \~**\ \ Cryptocurrency is a decentralized digital currency that is built to operate as a medium for exchange through a computer network that does not rely on any central authority, such as a government or bank, to operate or maintain it.\ \ another simple definition will be...:point\_down:\ \ Cryptocurrency is a digital or virtual payment system that is protected by encryption, making counterfeiting and double-spending practically impossible. It’s a peer-to-peer system that can enable anyone anywhere to send and receive payments.\ \ Cryptocurrency received its name because it uses **encryption** to verify transactions. This means advanced coding is involved in storing and transmitting cryptocurrency data between wallets and to public ledgers. The aim of encryption is to provide security and safety. {% embed url="" %} --- # Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter: ``` GET https://cryptokenzyy.gitbook.io/crypto_nft_guide/cryptocurrency/introduction-to-crypto.md?ask= ``` The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.