Cryptocurrency is a digital or virtual currency designed to work as a medium of exchange. It uses cryptography to secure and verify transactions as well as to control the creation of new units of a particular cryptocurrency. Unlike regular currencies, cryptocurrencies are not printed by governments and are not controlled by a centralized authority. They are decentralized, which means that they exist on a distributed public ledger called the blockchain. This decentralization eliminates the need for third-party intermediaries, such as banks and payment processors, and provides users with more control over their funds. Additionally, cryptocurrencies generally have lower transaction fees than traditional methods of payment and can often be sent instantly across the globe.