ZkSync Defends Sybil Measures; Binance Launches ZK Token Airdrop

The Ethereum layer-2 scaling platform zkSync has been actively addressing criticisms regarding its upcoming zkSync (ZK) token airdrop, scheduled for release on June 17. Recently, the platform published an updated FAQ document to clarify the selection criteria for this airdrop, responding to 15 questions primarily about why certain groups qualified for the token while others did not.

One of the key points of discussion revolves around measures taken to prevent Sybil attacks, where one individual creates numerous wallets to unfairly claim airdrops. This issue has been a recurring challenge for airdrop claimants. zkSync emphasized that they employed specific Sybil detection techniques alongside a unique airdrop design to maximize rewards for genuine users. Despite these efforts, some Sybil wallets still managed to slip through their security nets.

The platform explained that some Sybils use advanced algorithms which mimic the behavior of real users, making them hard to detect. These strategies include funding accounts from various exchange addresses, avoiding interactions between these accounts, using randomized transaction amounts, and even employing daily activity patterns designed to emulate human behavior.

zkSync acknowledged that being overly strict with Sybil filtering could mistakenly flag genuine users. Therefore, they opted for a strategy that combined value scaling and multipliers. This approach assigned fewer eligibility points to wallets with low funding, a common sign of Sybil behavior, but provided a boost to those showing legitimate onchain activities.

The document highlighted that real users typically consolidate most of their cryptocurrency into a few accounts, resulting in higher balances compared to those managed by bots. In contrast, Sybils spread their funds across numerous accounts to appear legitimate while being capital efficient.

Despite their precautions, zkSync admitted that it is virtually impossible to eliminate all Sybils from an airdrop. They noted that for every detectable Sybil, countless others were likely excluded by their methods. The goal was to prioritize rewarding legitimate, organic users.

Amid these concerns, cryptocurrency exchange Binance announced its own ZK airdrop. This secondary airdrop aims to target individuals who did not qualify for the official zkSync airdrop. Binance plans to distribute 10.5 million ZK tokens to over 52,000 of its users, addressing community concerns about the token’s distribution.

To be eligible for Binance’s airdrop, users must have initiated at least 50 transactions on zkSync Era between February 2023 and March 2024 and must have conducted transactions for at least seven months within that period. Ineligible addresses include CEX, bridge, or contract addresses and those already eligible for the official airdrop. Each eligible Binance user will receive 200 ZK tokens.

Starting June 17, Binance will allow trading of the ZK token, offering pairs with Bitcoin (BTC), Tether (USDT), and First Digital USD (FDUSD). As of the latest information, the ZK token is trading pre-market at 36 cents.