Blockchain solutions to stop AI impersonators in crypto airdrops, campaigns
As artificial intelligence (AI) advances, it is becoming increasingly difficult to tell the difference between real users and AI impersonators, particularly in areas like crypto airdrops and political donations.
With bots and deepfakes spreading across social media and online games, the line between humans and machines continues to blur.
In response, several blockchain-based identity solutions are being developed to verify authenticity and curb AI misuse.
Recent studies highlight how challenging it is for humans to distinguish between real and AI-generated images.
One study from the University of Waterloo showed participants struggled to tell the difference, successfully identifying AI-generated images only 61% of the time. As AI-generated bots flood platforms to exploit systems designed for genuine users, solutions like “proof of humanity” are emerging.
Blockchain technologies such as Holonym and Civic are at the forefront of this effort. These systems use biometrics, document verification, and video submissions to ensure that users are authentic.
Holonym’s “human keys” link private keys to human attributes like biometrics, while Civic’s digital ID system confirms a user’s uniqueness through a simple video feed.
However, the use of biometrics raises concerns about privacy and data security. Users fear potential surveillance and the retention of sensitive information by third parties.
To address these concerns, platforms like Holonym ensure most user data remains on personal devices, with explicit consent required if sensitive data needs to be shared.
Beyond crypto, blockchain-based identity systems are also proving valuable in elections and political campaigns.
During the 2020 U.S. presidential race, Holonym enabled anonymous political donations while verifying U.S. residency using zero-knowledge technology. This helped campaigns meet legal requirements while maintaining donor privacy.
