The Ethereum Foundation has embarked on a pivotal project to bolster privacy on its network, unveiling a team named the “Privacy Cluster.” This group of 47 experts, including researchers, engineers, and cryptographers, is directed by Igor Barinov. Announced on October 8, 2025, on the foundation’s blog, the initiative showcases early‑stage research and development overseen by Andy Guzman.
What Are the Objectives of the Privacy Cluster?
The Privacy Cluster has set forth a comprehensive plan targeting several key areas: “Private Reads & Writes,” “Private Proving,” “Private Identities,” and enhancing user experience. These developments aim to facilitate the efficient and seamless execution of transactions such as private payments and voting. Additionally, a dedicated Institutional Privacy Task Force will convert real‑world needs into technical frameworks.
How Will Privacy Be Integrated into Ethereum?
The Ethereum Foundation envisions integrating privacy features at every level of the network. Their framework ranges from advanced cryptographic research to the incorporation of protocol features, application layers with tools like Semaphore and MACI, identity solutions, and the Kohaku SDK for wallets. This strategy is designed to minimize data exposure risks and expand development possibilities while ensuring a compliant environment for institutional operations.
Leadership for this initiative includes Barinov as the coordinator, with Guzman leading the Privacy Cluster. This effort employs a cluster model to enhance strategic coherence, boost scalability, and improve accountability, bolstered by leaders from research, product, and engineering sectors.
The Ethereum Foundation believes that privacy forms a cornerstone of building digital trust. Their goal is to craft standardized systems for selective disclosure, applicable in varied scenarios from salary secrecy and age verification to data mobility and safeguarding business operations.
Key Points:
- •Introduction of “Privacy Cluster” with 47 specialists.
- •Focus on developing private transactions and disclosures.
- •A holistic approach to embedding privacy into Ethereum’s structures.
- •Practical applications span wide sectors requiring confidentiality.
“Privacy is the backbone of the digital trust we are establishing,” states the Ethereum Foundation.
The Ethereum Foundation’s strides toward enhancing privacy signal a robust commitment to meeting the evolving needs of both individual users and institutions. As this initiative unfolds, it is expected to redefine how privacy is managed and perceived within the blockchain ecosystem.