Brave Browser BAT

The Basic Attention Token, usually called BAT, is a purpose-built cryptocurrency that powers a privacy-first advertising model inside a privacy-focused browser, and it aims to reconnect advertisers, publishers and users without the usual middlemen. BAT is an ERC-20 token on the Ethereum network and it was issued with a fixed maximum supply to prevent endless dilution. The core idea is simple and methodical: the browser blocks third-party trackers and ads by default to protect user data, and users can opt in to see privacy-respecting ads that are matched locally on their device so that personal browsing history never leaves the machine. When a user agrees to view an ad they receive BAT as a reward, and publishers earn BAT when users engage with their content or when users tip them directly. Advertisers pay for attention in BAT and smart contracts route those payments transparently, so more of the ad spend reaches creators and viewers rather than being siphoned off by large intermediaries. From a practical point of view this creates three clear benefits: improved privacy because tracking is minimized, better return on ad spend for advertisers because the audience is opt-in and engaged, and a fairer income stream for content creators because tips and ad shares flow directly to them. Users can spend BAT inside the browser’s reward marketplace to support creators, enter promotions, or claim digital vouchers, and they can also move BAT to external wallets and exchanges if they prefer to hold or trade it. Because BAT runs on a public chain, transactions are auditable and interoperable, but users should be aware of two realities: token value can fluctuate and on-chain transactions may require network fees and the use of compatible wallets. For longer term storage or higher security, users often transfer tokens to external secure wallets that store private keys offline. Setting up rewards is straightforward: enable the option in the browser, opt in to receive ads, and link or create a wallet to collect BAT; creators need to verify their accounts to receive direct tips. Overall BAT is not just a token, it is a protocol layer that experiments with a fairer, privacy-first ad economy where users get paid for attention and creators get better monetization without sacrificing personal data.