Eigen Labs, a blockchain research company, and Shielded Labs, a Zcash research organization, have launched HashSmash, an open competition that tests whether AI can find weaknesses in widely used cryptographic hash functions. Eigen Labs is a blockchain technology research company, while Shielded Labs is a research organization focused on developing Zcash.
The competition focuses on SHA-256, SHA-3, BLAKE3, and Poseidon. These hash functions help protect blockchains, zero-knowledge systems, software, and other digital infrastructure. Participants can use AI agents and tools such as SAT solvers, automated searches, and formal methods to develop attacks.
