Metadata Registration via Smart Contracts

In addition to securely storing encrypted data on the IPFS network, Encryptum records critical metadata related to each file on the Ethereum blockchain through the use of smart contracts. This metadata serves as a comprehensive index and governance layer that complements the decentralized storage of the actual data.

The metadata stored on-chain includes the Content Identifier (CID) that points to the encrypted file on IPFS, ownership details identifying who controls or created the data, access permissions specifying which users or agents are authorized to retrieve or decrypt the content, timestamps marking important events such as upload time or access requests, and any additional attributes relevant to data management or compliance.

Because this metadata resides on the Ethereum blockchain, it benefits from the inherent properties of immutability and transparency. Once recorded, the metadata cannot be altered or deleted without the consensus of the network, ensuring a tamper-proof and auditable record of data provenance. This immutability guarantees that ownership and permission records remain trustworthy over time, which is essential for legal compliance, dispute resolution, and secure collaboration.

Smart contracts deployed on Ethereum automatically enforce access control policies defined in the metadata. When an AI agent or user requests access to stored data, the smart contract verifies the requester’s credentials and permissions before allowing retrieval. This enforcement happens in a decentralized and trustless manner, eliminating the need for centralized gatekeepers or intermediaries and reducing risks related to censorship or unauthorized data manipulation.

Furthermore, smart contracts facilitate protocol governance by managing subscription statuses, premium access levels, and other ecosystem-specific functions tied to the ENCT token. These contracts serve as the backbone for secure, automated, and transparent interactions within the Encryptum network.

By combining blockchain-based metadata registration with decentralized encrypted storage, Encryptum achieves a robust and verifiable system that protects data integrity, access rights, and user sovereignty.