Imagine living in a world made up of countless islands, each with its own civilization, language, and trading rules. To share information and exchange goods between these islands, you’d need a universal bridge and currency system. In the world of blockchain, we use “Bridges” to achieve this. Previously, we introduced DeBridge and Owlto — two bridge projects with airdrop opportunities. DeBridge has even distributed its first airdrop.

Today, we’re talking about TOKI, another bridge with a testnet airdrop opportunity. In other words, this is a true zero-cost airdrop. A detailed step-by-step tutorial will follow, but I hope you first understand why this project is worth your attention, so you can decide for yourself whether to get involved.

1. What Makes TOKI Special?

The biggest selling point of TOKI is security. Let me put it this way: TOKI aims to set a new security standard for blockchain bridges. Since real assets are transferred across these bridges, security should match that of the underlying blockchains themselves.

So, how does TOKI innovate in terms of security?

Two words: layered protection. More specifically, it uses TEE (Trusted Execution Environment) and ZKP (Zero-Knowledge Proof). Let’s break these down.

1.1 TEE (Trusted Execution Environment): The “Invisible Shield” for Data

Imagine you’re shopping online and entering your credit card details. Without strong protection, hackers could easily intercept your payment information. TEE acts as an “invisible shield” that ensures your data is processed in a fully isolated and secure environment, protecting it from external threats.

In TOKI’s cross-chain bridge, TEE ensures that all sensitive operations and data involved in cross-chain transactions are shielded from third-party tampering or theft. Specifically, TEE provides an isolated execution space where data and calculations cannot be accessed by external programs. This means that not even TOKI’s administrators or developers can view your transaction data or private keys, safeguarding your privacy.

For example, imagine you are using TOKI to transfer ETH from Ethereum to Solana. TEE ensures your private keys and transaction data are handled securely in an isolated environment, safe from hackers or external systems.

1.2 ZKP (Zero-Knowledge Proof): Verify Without Revealing Information

ZKP might sound complex, but think of it as a clever magic trick that lets you prove you know something without revealing any details. Say you have a key and need to prove it can unlock a lock without actually showing the key. That’s what ZKP does: it allows you to prove knowledge without exposing any underlying information.

In TOKI’s cross-chain bridge, ZKP makes transaction verification safer. For instance, during a cross-chain transaction, ZKP can prove that you have enough ETH to complete the transfer without revealing your actual account balance. In other words, ZKP lets TOKI confirm the validity of transactions while keeping your sensitive information private.

Suppose you are transferring ETH from Ethereum to Avalanche. With ZKP, you can prove you have enough assets on Ethereum to make the transaction, without disclosing your exact balance or transaction history. This minimizes information exposure while enhancing both privacy and security.

1.3 Summary: Dual Protection with TEE + ZKP

When TEE and ZKP work together, they form a robust defense for TOKI’s cross-chain bridge. TEE secures data handling, while ZKP ensures privacy during verification. This means you can confidently make transactions without worrying about data leaks or tampering.

For instance, if you perform a cross-chain operation on TOKI, TEE ensures your transaction happens in a secure environment, free from interference. Then, ZKP verifies the transaction’s legitimacy without exposing any of your private details. This combined protection is like a rigorous security system that guards against both external threats and information leaks.

While TOKI is a pioneer in using multi-prover methods to achieve cost-effective, trust-minimized cross-chain connections, the TEE + ZKP combo isn’t unique. Many blockchain projects have recognized its importance and are adopting it. For example, major ZK-Rollup projects like Taiko and Scroll use similar TEE + ZKP strategies to secure cross-chain data. Even renowned projects like Uniswap and Aave have evaluated cross-chain bridge options, concluding that using multiple bridges maximizes asset security and liquidity.

2. TOKI’s Roadmap

As cross-chain technology evolves, TOKI is actively planning its development to secure a place in the blockchain interoperability ecosystem.

First, from October to November 2024, TOKI will reward liquidity providers through a testnet incentive program. This initiative not only gives users a chance to explore the platform but also promises potential airdrop rewards. That’s why I’m sharing TOKI with you today.

In 2025, TOKI will reach a major milestone: the launch of its mainnet. At that point, users will experience smoother cross-chain operations in a real network environment. After the mainnet launch, TOKI will introduce a cross-chain points system, rewarding testnet participants based on their activity. Early adopters will have more chances to earn future airdrops and incentives, boosting engagement throughout the ecosystem.

Looking ahead, TOKI’s vision extends far beyond being just a cross-chain bridge. It aims to use the IBC protocol to connect more blockchain networks, creating a true “Internet of Blockchains” where communication between different blockchains is seamless.

3. How to Join the Test?

Tools Needed: Chrome browser and Metamask wallet extension.

Currently, there’s only one test task: transferring assets between the Ethereum testnet and the BNB testnet. But first, you’ll need some test tokens.

3.1 Getting Test Tokens

Click the link to access the page shown below.

There are two types of tokens you need: Gas tokens (in the box) and TOKI test tokens (in the circle).

3.1.1 Claiming Gas Tokens for Testnets

Click the arrows to claim BNB on the BSC testnet and ETH on the Sepolia Ethereum testnet. Let’s start with the easy one — claiming BNB test tokens. Click the BNB Chain link (marked by the arrow) to open the page below.

Paste your wallet address and click the “Send 0.3 BNB” button. You’ll see a human verification pop-up like the one below.

You’ll need to select the image that matches the squirrel from above to pass verification. Next, click the link to get ETH test tokens.

Following the same steps: human verification, logging in, and pasting your wallet address. Finally, click “Send Me ETH.” The tricky part is signing up for Alchemy. If you have a Google account, just click the button marked by the arrow below.

Then, return to the original page, as shown below.

Note: The green arrow indicates that you need at least 0.001 ETH on the Ethereum mainnet to claim these test tokens. If you can’t claim them, leave your address in the comments section of this WeChat article, and I’ll send you some.

3.1.2 Claiming TOKI Test Tokens

First, add the BNB and ETH test networks to your wallet. Click the link to open the page below.

Follow the arrows: search for “BNB,” select “Include Testnet,” find BNB Smart Chain TestNet, and click “Add to Metamask.” Bookmark this site for easy access in the future when you need to add networks.

Next, claim TOKI test tokens like USDC and USDT on both the BSC and Sepolia testnets. Here’s how to claim on Sepolia as an example:

Click the link, select the network and token, then hit the red button.

In the wallet pop-up, click “Sign.”

Since this is a testnet, expect some delays and possible failures. If it doesn’t work, just try again.

3.2 Making a Cross-Chain Transfer

Click the link to access the page below. Click the Wallet button in the upper right and connect using Metamask or Rabby.

Once your wallet is connected, you’ll see this page.

Set everything up as shown. The key is to increase the slippage (I set it to 5) to avoid failures. Then, click Transfer. Two pop-ups will appear, including one from your wallet.

Sign and confirm in your wallet, and you’re done. The window will update to show the transfer status.

If you want to test further, try transferring in the other direction, from the BNB testnet to the Sepolia testnet. Don’t worry about inaccuracies in the amounts; it’s just a test.

Conclusion

In the blockchain world, zero-cost airdrops are like free adventure tickets, giving everyone a chance to explore new possibilities. Projects like TOKI allow you to experience the magic of cross-chain bridges and earn potential rewards without spending a dime.

I hope this simple guide makes it easier for you to dive into the blockchain world and experience its innovations and conveniences.

Remember, every time you participate, you’re not just supporting a project but also exploring the future of the digital economy.

For airdrop updates, follow the new official WeChat account (the old one got banned):

About Airdrop Reference

Airdrop Reference is an innovative blockchain education and promotion platform aimed at spreading basic blockchain knowledge and helping ordinary users understand and participate in the development of blockchain technology. The mission of this project is to lower the entry barriers to blockchain, promote high-quality blockchain projects, and allow more people to enjoy the benefits of the Web3.0 era.

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