Q: What is it?
A: A tool to prove that a file existed before a particular time.
- FreeTSA.org service and OpenTimestamps.org calendars made easily available to any end-user
- Cross-platform Linux/Mac/Win
- Entirely based on free sw, strong cryptography, open standards
Q: Wait… But, Why Timestamping?
A: Because attesting that a file existed before a particular time can be useful to…
- prove when an agreement was signed, if it is disputed
- validate a signature after a revocation occurred
- prove the ownership for copyright
- grant record Integrity
Q: Wait… But, Why Also on the Blockchain?
A: A classical timestamp provided by a trusted third party - like FreeTSA.org - is very precise (it proves the existence at a particular second), it replies instantly and is a legal standard.
However it can be validated for a limited time (usually no more than 20 years), for technical and economic reasons.
On the other hand, a Blockchain attestation - like that of an OpenTimestamps.org calendar - relies on the Bitcoin’s blockchain, a resilient distributed system, designed to survive perpetually, secured by the thermodynamic value of more than 50 TWh per year (~ 3 bln of $).
However it is less precise (it proves the existence at a particular day), requires time to be confirmed, and is not yet a legal standard.
For all these reasons TimeBags uses both methods - to take advantage of their respective benefits.
Q: Ok, Where Is The Package?
A: Well… it’s still in Alpha version.
But if you are a python developer and you are interested to contribute, the repo is here.
Q: How Is It Made?
A: Combining a bunch of components.
- freeTSA.org service and rfc3161ng library
- opentimestamps.org calendars service and CLI (modified to be used as a library)
- ASiC-S open standard defined by ETSI and based simply on zip archives
- PyQt5 cross-platform GUI library
- fman and AppImage build tools