Cryptocurrency, or crypto, is a form of digital or virtual currency that uses cryptography for security. Unlike traditional currencies, it operates on decentralized networks based on blockchain technology, making it resistant to central control and fraud. Bitcoin, created in 2009, was the first cryptocurrency and remains the most well-known. Cryptocurrencies enable peer-to-peer transactions without intermediaries like banks, providing faster and often cheaper transfers. The value of cryptocurrencies is highly volatile, with prices influenced by factors like demand, market sentiment, and regulatory news. Though it's gaining acceptance, it faces challenges, including scalability, security, and regulatory uncertainty.