Using the block chain to prove knowledge?

[kslump]

I'm a Bitcoin newbie interested in using the Bitcoin block chain for a proof-of-knowledge use case where a fingerprint is calculated of the data at a given point in time, and then published in the block chain to prove knowledge. The OP_RETURN script opcode would be used to publish the fingerprint. The transaction volume is not expected to be very high (perhaps thousands annually).

Is this sort of use case and implementation method currently considered acceptable by the Bitcoin community?

I'd be very interested in hearing about your thoughts and experiences related to this use case.


kslump

[achow101]

Generally any application which uses OP_RETURN or other methods of storing data in the blockhain us frowned upon by a larger portion of the community, especially those who run full nodes. Your data, even though a few thousand transactions annually, have to be stored and maintained by full nodes for eternity. Those transactions are generally considered spam.

[kslump]

Ok, thanks.

Is there any other, more acceptable method of implementing the proof-of-existence use case with the block chain?

[achow101]

Ok, thanks.

Is there any other, more acceptable method of implementing the proof-of-existence use case with the block chain?

No as embedding data in any form into the blockchain is generally frowned upon.