news.volyx.in

Privacy Pass Authentication for Kagi Search (blog.kagi.com)

939 points by b3n · 536 days ago · 341 comments on HN

Article summary

Kagi Search has introduced a new privacy feature called Privacy Pass, which allows users to authenticate without revealing their identity. This feature uses a cryptographic protocol to generate and redeem tokens, ensuring that Kagi cannot link searches to individual users. The implementation is open-sourced and available for various platforms, including Orion browser, Android app, and Firefox and Chrome extensions. The company has also launched a Tor onion service to further enhance user anonymity.

Main themes

  • Privacy Pass protocol
  • Kagi Search
  • Anonymity and security
  • Cryptographic authentication
  • Tor onion service
  • Payment and cryptocurrency

What commenters say

  • The introduction of Privacy Pass addresses a major flaw in Kagi's previous implementation and enhances user anonymity.
  • Some users question the effectiveness of Privacy Pass in preventing server-side tracking and express concerns about the potential for token resale.
  • The open-source nature of the Privacy Pass extension helps to alleviate concerns about server-side trust and potential misuse.
  • There is a demand for Monero support as a payment option, with some users citing high Bitcoin fees and the importance of anonymity.
  • Converting Monero to Bitcoin before payment is not a viable solution due to potential tracking and reduced anonymity.
  • The lack of Monero support has deterred some users from adopting Kagi, but the introduction of Privacy Pass may help to narrow the gap.
  • Some users argue that relying on centralized services like Stripe for payment processing undermines the privacy and anonymity features of Kagi.
  • The use of Bitcoin Lightning for payment is seen as a viable option by some, but others point out the potential for high fees and routing issues.