Legal Stampy - Secure Document Timestamping

Our platform uses the OpenTimestamps standard for efficient file timestamping. Data is stamped in the Bitcoin block header for permanent anchoring. Cryptographic Merkle trees enable scalable verification.

📊 Merkle Tree Aggregation

Efficient batching of multiple document hashes

🔗 Block Header Attestation

Timestamps anchored to Bitcoin block headers

🕒 Calendar Servers

Distributed timestamping infrastructure

🔐 Cryptographic Proofs

SHA256-based verification chains

How the System Works

The technical process behind reliable blockchain timestamping

1

Hash Generation & Aggregation

Cryptographic Fingerprinting: Each document is processed with SHA256 to create a unique 256-bit fingerprint. Even the smallest change to a document produces a completely different hash.

Efficient Batching: Multiple document hashes are organized into Merkle trees, allowing hundreds of documents to share a single Bitcoin transaction.

Cost Optimization: This aggregation approach reduces blockchain costs dramatically compared to individual transactions.

2

Blockchain Anchoring

Calendar Servers: Specialized servers collect document hashes from multiple users and batch them together efficiently.

Bitcoin Recording: The aggregated hash data is committed to Bitcoin transactions, creating a permanent record on the world's most secure blockchain.

Immutable Proof: Once confirmed in a Bitcoin block, the timestamp becomes mathematically immutable and independently verifiable.

3

Proof Generation

Timestamp Proof File: You receive a .ots file containing the cryptographic proof that links your document to the Bitcoin blockchain.

Universal Format: Uses the OpenTimestamps standard, ensuring your proof works with any compatible verification tool.

Complete Trail: The proof file contains all necessary information to independently verify your document's timestamp.

4

Independent Verification

Simple Verification: Anyone can verify your document by uploading it along with the .ots proof file to any OpenTimestamps verifier.

Multiple Tools: Use our built-in verifier, the OpenTimestamps website, command-line tools, or other compatible software.

Independent Validation: Verification works without Legal Stampy - only requires access to the Bitcoin blockchain and standard verification tools.

OpenTimestamps Standard

OpenTimestamps is an open-source protocol for creating blockchain-based timestamps. Unlike proprietary solutions, OpenTimestamps ensures your proofs remain valid forever.

Key Advantages:

Vendor Independence: Proofs can be verified by anyone
No Single Point of Failure: Multiple calendar servers
Cost Efficient: Aggregated timestamping reduces fees
Standard Compliance: Follows established cryptographic practices

Learn More About OpenTimestamps

File Verification Process

Anyone can verify your timestamp proof using free, open-source tools. This ensures your evidence remains valid regardless of our service status.

Verification Steps:

Calculate SHA256 hash of the document being verified
Check that the hash matches what's recorded in the .ots proof file
Confirm the hash/proof is recorded on the Bitcoin blockchain on the date you expected

Security & Cryptographic Foundations

SHA256 Hash Function Security

Reliable: Same document always produces the same fingerprint
Sensitive: Even tiny changes create completely different fingerprints
Secure: Cannot work backwards from fingerprint to original document
Unique: Different documents cannot have the same fingerprint

Bitcoin Security Model

Immutability after 6+ confirmations
Secured by a worldwide network of independent validators
Economic incentives align with security
Highly secure decentralized network

Legal Cryptography

Mathematical proof vs. trust-based systems
Independent verification by experts
Established precedent in multiple jurisdictions
Meets digital evidence requirements

Technology