Cryptocurrency is a type of digital currency that is exchanged on an encrypted and publicly verifiable network called the blockchain. At least one recent survey found a majority of Americans believe that crypto is the future of finance, so it’s well-suited for young people wanting to learn about investing.

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Cryptocurrency is considered a decentralized currency, as there is no controlling party or central bank that issues it.

Cryptocurrency is designed to be ultra-secure, using cryptography techniques and encryption algorithms to secure the blockchain networks on which it is exchanged, but crypto traders can be exposed to hacks or fraud. This is partly because the blockchain is run by independent computers that exist outside the control of any government or regulatory authority.