bitdevs

Joinstr get added to the Coinjoins.org website

Definitely, having other wallets implementing it will help increase the user base. For now the only one is [Electrum with a dedicated plugin](https://gitlab.com/1440000bytes/joinstr/-/tree/main/plugin). On the roadmap mobile and webApp are WIP. Stay tuned!

### `What is Joinstr`
Joinstr is a coinjoin protocol with a decentralized coordinator model on Nostr relays. Participants can use multiple relays in the same coinjoin round.

Learn more about its Benefits and Trade Offs on [coinjoins.org](https://www.coinjoins.org/wallets/joinstr) or read more on [GH](https://gitlab.com/1440000bytes/joinstr/), [X](https://twitter.com/1440000bytes) and our [Website](https://joinstr.xyz/).

![joinstr.png](https://m.stacker.news/23822)



nostr

Finalizing latest details for [Joinstr electrum plugin](https://gitlab.com/1440000bytes/joinstr/-/tree/main/plugin?ref_type=heads). join the conversation [here on telegram](https://t.me/Joinstr) if you are interested to test it with real sats.



Joinstr electrum plugin ready, will you be interested to test it with real sats?

devs

Daily ~Devs Hangout

Hey Devs and Hackers! It's time for your daily rendezvous at the Daily Devs Hangout. 🛠️🔗

Pull up your ergonomic chair in our virtual realm and share a slice of your day. From triumphs over complex code, head-scratching bugs that make you wonder why you started coding in the first place - we're all here for it. 🐞💻

Cracked a tough algorithm? Encountered a Bitcoin brain-teaser? Or perhaps you've got a piece of sage advice that could save a fellow dev's sanity? This is the place to spill.


bitcoin

`#nostr` `#get-help` `#activity` `#milestone` `#legends-of-lightning`

![](https://imagedelivery.net/wyrwp3c-j0gDDUWgnE7lig/2a6f2ac4-6047-4028-a187-8ce9a6552f00/public)

Introduction
------------

In the ever-evolving world of bitcoin, privacy and security are a paramount standard. CoinJoin, a method for enhancing anonymity in Bitcoin transactions, largely depends on how it will be implemented, as it offers a unique approach. In this blog post, we'll delve into the best practices for using encrypted channels in each CoinJoin round within JoinStr, ensuring that your transactions are not just anonymous but also secure.

Understanding CoinJoin and JoinStr
----------------------------------

Before diving into the specifics, it's crucial to understand what CoinJoin is and how JoinStr fits into the picture. CoinJoin is a mechanism that combines multiple Bitcoin payments from several users into a single transaction, making it more difficult for outsiders to determine who paid whom. JoinStr indeed, is a coinjoin implemetation written in Python that utilizes `nostr` relays for the transaction coordination, adding an extra layer of security. To achieve this implementation, the implementation of private channels is mandatory and we are currentluy working on it to make it real.

We recently submitted a [0.0135 BTC bounty](https://github.com/coinkite/bountsr.org.pub/pull/46/files) to incentivize [the community](https://t.me/Joinstr) to participate and submit proposals, hopefully it will be published soon on [Bounstr.org](https://bountsr.org/joinstr-channels/) To explain how to implement private channels into Joinstr, we also need to understand a few key concepts:

1.  **CoinJoin Mechanism**: is a method for combining multiple Bitcoin payments from multiple spenders into a single transaction to increase privacy. It obscures the link between the input and output of a transaction, making it more difficult to trace individual transactions. Learn more about [Coinjoin](https://en.bitcoin.it/wiki/CoinJoin) since its [inception](https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=279249.0)!
    
2.  **Joinstr's Implementation**: uses nostr relays for coordination. [Nostr](https://fiatjaf.com/nostr.html) (Notes and Other Stuff Transmitted by Relays) is a decentralized and censorship-resistant protocol. It's used in Joinstr to coordinate transactions between different parties. There's also plenty of info about the protocol on [Nostr.how](https://Nostr.how), check it out!
    
3.  **Private Channels Concept**: in the context of bitcoin on-chain, it refers to a method of conducting transactions or communications in a private, secure manner, often using encryption or other encryption techniques. You can learn more about it on [here](https://en.bitcoin.it/wiki/Privacy) and [here](https://thebitcoinmanual.com/articles/private-channel-lightning-network/) :)
    

The Role of Encrypted Channels
------------------------------

Encrypted channels in JoinStr play a vital role. They ensure that the details of the transaction, and the participants involved, remain confidential. This encryption is vital in protecting against potential threats, such as man-in-the-middle attacks or blockchain analysis techniques that could compromise privacy. This will enable Joinstr to solve its Denial of Service, an issue initially discussed on the bitcoin-dev [mailing list](https://lists.linuxfoundation.org/pipermail/bitcoin-dev/2022-August/020876.html). After drafting a [NIP](https://github.com/nostr-protocol/nips/blob/e24316e16b8f4ac50d0fec7cbdfe76fa936dfe8c/33.md) to try solve this problem we realized that using encrypted channels would be a muuuch better approach. There are some exisiting NIPs for encrypted channels that could be useful: NIP 38, NIP 48 and NIP 112, although some changes would be required to implement them on joinstr.

Best Practices for Using Encrypted Channels in JoinStr
------------------------------------------------------

1\. _Choose Strong Encryption_: Always opt for the strongest encryption settings available in JoinStr. This might mean taking a bit more time to set up your transaction, but the added security it's definitely worth for your anonymity.

2\. _Verify Your Counterparties_: While JoinStr does a lot to secure transactions, it's still important to verify whom you're transacting with (when possible). This doesn't mean you need to know their identity, but ensure they are legitimate participants in the CoinJoin.

3\. _Use Fresh Addresses_: Each time you participate in a CoinJoin round, use a new address. This practice prevents linking your transactions together, enhancing privacy.

4\. _Stay Updated_: Keep your JoinStr software up to date. Our comunity continuously work on improving security features and fixing vulnerabilities. Using the latest version ensures you have the best protection available.

5\. _Monitor CoinJoin Rounds_: Pay attention to the details of each CoinJoin round. If something seems off, such as a participant repeatedly trying to join with the same inputs, it might be a red flag.

6\. _Avoid Reusing Channels_: Just as with addresses, try not to reuse encrypted channels. New channels for each round minimize the risk of pattern recognition.

7\. _Be Cautious with Amounts_: When participating in CoinJoin, consider the amounts you're mixing. Large, unique amounts can sometimes be traced back. Aim for common denominations where possible.

8\. _Understand the Limits_: Remember that while CoinJoin and encrypted channels add privacy, they are not foolproof. Understanding their limitations helps in making informed decisions about your transactions.

### Ideal integration

![](https://imagedelivery.net/wyrwp3c-j0gDDUWgnE7lig/eab58f7d-9b0c-40af-f6a5-f025f6bf6100/public)

One user will create an encrypted channel, post output address in the channel and share info to join the channel as a public event. Other users will join the channel and register their outputs. Once the encrypted channel is full based on capacity defined by the first user, nobody should be able to join the channel.

Input registration would also use the same channel, followed by the coinjoin finalization and confirmation in the blockchain.

To integrate private channels into Joinstr, you would need to follow these general steps:

1.  **Understand Nostr Protocol**: Since Joinstr uses nostr for coordination, a deep understanding of how nostr works is crucial. This includes how it handles data transmission and ensures privacy and security using the NIPs: [38](https://github.com/nostr-protocol/nips/blob/master/38.md), [48](https://github.com/nostr-protocol/nips/blob/master/48.md) and [112](https://github.com/nostr-protocol/nips/pull/580).
    
2.  **Design the Private Channel**: Determine how the private channel will function within the Joinstr framework. This involves deciding on the encryption methods, how the channel will be established, and how it will interact with the existing `nostr` relay system.
    
3.  **Implement Encryption**: Implement robust encryption methods for the private channel. This is essential to ensure that the details of the transactions coordinated through Joinstr are kept confidential.
    
4.  **Modify Joinstr's Code**: Integrate the private channel functionality into Joinstr's existing Python codebase. This will involve coding the mechanisms for establishing and maintaining private channels and ensuring they work seamlessly with the nostr relay system.
    
5.  **Testing and Validation**: Rigorously test the implementation to ensure that it not only maintains privacy but also works efficiently and securely within the Joinstr framework.
    
6.  **Document the process and seek Community Feedback**: Update the Joinstr documentation to include information about the new private channel feature. Engage with the Joinstr and broader cryptocurrency community for feedback and improvements.
    

Conclusion
----------

Using encrypted channels in each [CoinJoin](https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=279249.0) round within [JoinStr](https://JoinStr.xyz) is a powerful way to enhance your transaction privacy, anonymity and security. By following these best practices, you can ensure that you're making the most out of this innovative technology.

We invite all the participants to help us build this functionality applying to the bounty and ideally writing a public article to share and validate the process adopted. Remember to check [Joinstr documentation](https://docs.joinstr.xyz/) and share your thoughts and questions on our public [Telegram channel](https://t.me/Joinstr).

Looking forward to hearing from you all! Cheers 🤙

Joinstr PPPs: Maximizing Security in CoinJoin Rounds with Private Channels

Issue: `OPEN`

**Requirements:**
- Write blog post describing the best way to use encrypted channels for each coinjoin round in joinstr
- Implement channels in joinstr

Bounty: sats worth 500 USD

Related NIPs: `38`, `48` and `112`

Bounty [link](https://stacker.news/items/311252/r/kpa)

Coinjoin using encrypted channels on JoinStr

$500 USD bounty for implementing encrypted channels in joinstr

![](https://cdn5.telesco.pe/file/N-LjfuZlc0Myd6_se3fAsJqV-FSZvclAVCZEXBCEWolOfveAJMANX9xSnPA-cRS6d8xdpR8tZvBDzEr1TyQT-5H9CuUAUWJoBSwwwPGK9EGUaj8NaeG01p44BUNhXLTwTANze4zeSKLO5yhUEuivCl80tnvJlKCQ7K69haE9Msm0XbUJlcTxHkITQBhkn4mpb-QYR3kLk9fqXMJvKayaKA3MB5RIEYTFpuROrcdmsm-E68pL3_NusTCuyM_yKYHiQFy7GP9oJyF74mkUhCjetFRz5WGY5Ei0u7gCepZtfd_3qmMdNgPJbKRF2acJkeTrqT4gMRfkXTNYPsJlgSh4Ig.jpg)

PoW https://t.me/Joinstr/208

Join our telegram group https://t.me/Joinstr

Visit our website for more info https://joinstr.xyz

JoinStr invited to pitch live at Nostrasia semi finals

![](https://imagedelivery.net/wyrwp3c-j0gDDUWgnE7lig/477a6db3-ef37-4cf7-f44b-90d5e8adff00/public)

It has been a while you haven't ear from us, we were super busy and here we are finally taking a breath to tell you what's going on `joinstr` land.

### ✅ Progress

*   Our Electrum plugin is available. In case you don't know what Electrum Bitcoin wallet is, click [here](https://electrum.org/).
    
*   Replace `python-nostr` with `nostr-sdk` (still progressing)
    
*   We finally set up our Geyser campaign to support current and future development. [Check it out](https://geyser.fund/project/joinstr) and drop some sats, it will help a lot!
    
*   Updated our landing page accordingly, [\* check it out](https://joinstr.xyz/#support)!
    
*   We moved the project back on GitHub to break barriers and enable more dev to actively contribute (it's sucks because it still a Microzoz products, anyway our main [GitLab](https://gitlab.com/1440000bytes/joinstr) code will stay available, just in case...)
    
*   We also find... well ok, we'll tell you about this next time ;)
    

### 🔮 Vision

*   Use collected funds (we reach 1M sats in 1 day, **thank you** community!) to create bounties and incentivize the community to participate and be openly involved.
    
*   Implement encrypted channels
    
*   Build web app: we have the engine ad we have the body parts, it's now time to connect the two
    
*   Build android app: same as above
    
*   Use new UI/UX for web app and mobile app
    

### ✋ Blockers

*   Events published by `python-nostr` are not getting stored by relays and started getting this warning, which might be related to [this issue](https://github.com/urllib3/urllib3/issues/2680). We are not sure how to fix it in it and might need using a different [pyton library](https://pypi.org/project/nostr-sdk/) for a PoC, and change a lot of code if this issue is not resolved. Any help on this will be much appreciated.
    
*   The Electrum plugin is working but there's still a bug we are working. You free to check the code and submit your feedback, comments and pull requests.
    

### 🔗 References

*   Our website [https://JoinStr.xyz](https://joinstr.xyz/#support)
    
*   Geyser crowdfunding campaign [https://geyser.fund/project/joinstr](https://geyser.fund/project/joinstr)
    
*   Joinstr on Github [github.com/SuperAtic/JoinStr.git](//github.com/SuperAtic/JoinStr.git)
    
*   Electrum code [https://github.com/SuperAtic/JoinStr/tree/main/plugin](https://github.com/SuperAtic/JoinStr/tree/main/plugin)
    

Thank you for reading till here, stay tuned, more exciting news are coming to Joinstr!

> Sometimes you don't need complex cryptography but common sense - [@1440000bytes](https://twitter.com/1440000bytes/status/1701317974345523415)

Joinstr PPPs: Connecting the dots... 🚀

What's your preferred quote about Privacy?

Joinstr on Geyser.Fund

![](https://imagedelivery.net/wyrwp3c-j0gDDUWgnE7lig/1328e719-2db9-4c9a-a015-abd099613a00/public)

✅ New Joinstr website is finally online at https://JoinStr.XYZ
✅ Updated joinstr docs https://docs.joinstr.xyz
✅ Added validation for PSBT and JSON in code https://gitlab.com/1440000bytes/joinstr
✅ Applied for listing and grant on @OpenSats https://opensats.org/apply
 

Thank you @super_testnet
  and @veronikakuett for review


Ref: [X.wtf](https://twitter.com/1440000bytes/status/1710192297646682168)

WhazUp this week on Joinstr

Exciting Times Ahead for the New Joinstr Website!

yes correct, we are currently working on the Webapp and the Android app.

deleted by author

Thanks, reposted here [https://stacker.news/items/268773](https://stacker.news/items/268773/r/kpa)

![](https://imgprxy.stacker.news/y-cBZdhtvwTlgJ6RFJQA-TRIMTdp7ErYZbw7bqZRq9k/rs:fit:600:500:0/g:no/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWFnZWRlbGl2ZXJ5Lm5ldC93eXJ3cDNjLWowZ0REVVdnbkU3bGlnL2Q2MmViODcxLTI5ZDktNGViNS1jZjE1LWNkZjAxYmMyMzQwMC9wdWJsaWM)

Hello, hodlrs & stackrs! 🚀 We're thrilled to announce the launch of our revamped [JoinStr.xyz](https://JoinStr.Vercel.app) website. With a fresh new branding, sleek design, and an enhanced Ui for the Android app coming out really soon. We're taking Joinstr to the next level. But that's not all; we have a lot more in store for you!

What's New with Joinstr?
------------------------

### 🌐 Brand New Website

Our new website, [JoinStr.xyz](https://JoinStr.Vercel.app) , is live and ready for you to explore. With a user-friendly interface and easy navigation, you can now delve into the groundbreaking possibilities of Joinstr with ease from desktop and mobile.

### 🎨 Refreshed Branding

We've given Joinstr a brand makeover! Our new branding reflects our commitment to user privacy and cutting-edge technology. It's modern, vibrant, and embodies the spirit of Joinstr community. Feel free to [share your feedback](https://t.me/Joinstr) and let us know how we can improve it.

### 📱 Enhanced App Ui

We've listened to your feedback, and our app now boasts a revamped UI. It's intuitive, sleek, and designed to offer you a seamless coinjoin experience.

Roadmap: What's Coming Next?
----------------------------

1.  **Custom Denomination Pools**: Define your CoinJoin denomination and set the pool min participation amount for others to join.
    
2.  **Encrypted Channels**: We're working on implementing encrypted channels to reduce DoS vectors and enhance security.
    
3.  **Community Engagement**: We'll be rolling out community engagement initiatives, including AMAs, webinars, and more.
    
4.  **Grants and Funding**: We're exploring opportunities for grants to further develop and expand Joinstr.
    

Calling All Contributors!
-------------------------

Joinstr is an open-source project, and we're always on the lookout for passionate contributors. Whether you're a developer, designer, or privacy researcher, there's a place for you in the Joinstr family. Dive into our [documentation](https://docs.joinstr.xyz/) to learn more and check out our [GitLab repository](https://gitlab.com/1440000bytes/joinstr) to start contributing.

### Why Contribute to Joinstr?

*   **Be Part of a Revolution**: Joinstr is reshaping the way we think about secure and private transactions. By contributing, you're making a difference.
    
*   **Collaborate with Like-minded Individuals**: Join a community of hodlrs, strackrs ad nostrs people to connect and interact with...
    
*   **Opportunities for Grants**: We're actively seeking grants and funding. By contributing, you can be part of our growth journey offering openly this technology.
    

Wrapping Up
-----------

The future looks bright for Joinstr, and we're excited to have you on this journey with us. Explore the new [JoinStr.xyz](https://JoinStr.Vercel.app), check out our roadmap, and consider contributing to make Joinstr the go-to platform for private and secure Bitcoin transactions.

Let's make waves in the world together, 🌊 Anonymously!

Joinstr: The Future of Coinjoin is Here, and It Needs You!

you'll find soon _how_ on [joinstr.vercel.app](https://joinstr.vercel.app)

![](https://imgprxy.stacker.news/eu9WuyiK55yo68VN7o-KTiDdgvsCJpusIq3WmsL-OEk/rs:fit:600:500:0/g:no/aHR0cHM6Ly9pLmliYi5jby9aeGpac2RWL1NjcmVlbnNob3QtMjAyMy0wOS0yMy1hdC0xMS0zMC0yOS1hbS5wbmc)

If you've been on the lookout for a groundbreaking way to enhance your Bitcoin transactions' privacy, then you're in for a treat. Allow us to introduce you to Joinstr, a coinjoin implementation that's shaking up the bitcoin privacy transactions.


## What's the Buzz About Joinstr?

Launched as a proof of concept in August 2022, Joinstr uses `nostr` relays for coordination and is written in Python. Unlike traditional coinjoin implementations, Joinstr offers a unique approach to privacy and security.

It operates both via Command Line Interface (CLI) and a Graphical User Interface (GUI) [currently WIP](https://gitlab.com/1440000bytes/joinstr). In the CLI, you run a Python script that checks inputs and outputs every 30 seconds. Once five inputs are registered, a new address is generated for the output. The process continues until a coinjoin transaction is finalized and broadcasted. The GUI offers a similar workflow but in a more [user-friendly manner](https://stacker.news/items/246837/r/kpa). 

### What Sets Joinstr Apart?

Joinstr is not just another coinjoin implementation. It's a project that aims to improve privacy and security in the Bitcoin ecosystem. It's currently in the development phase, with several exciting features in the pipeline, such as custom denomination pools and encrypted channels for enhanced privacy.

## Call to Developerr, and Privacy Researchers!

Joinstr is an open-source project, and it's calling for contributions. Whether you're a developer, a designer, or a privacy researcher, there's a place for you in this exciting venture. The project is hosted on [GitLab](https://gitlab.com/1440000bytes/joinstr), and it's open for merge requests and improvements.

**For Developers**

If you're a developer, you can dive into the code, fix bugs, or even add new features. The project is written in Python and has a well-documented [repository](https://gitlab.com/1440000bytes/joinstr).

**For Privacy Researchers**

If you're into privacy and security, Joinstr offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a project that aims to make Bitcoin transactions more private and secure.

## Why Should You Contribute?

Joinstr is purely FOSS, a community-driven initiative that aims to make a significant impact on the bitcoin transactions ensuring privacy leveraging the [nostr protocol](https://nostr.com). By contributing, you're not just improving the project; you're becoming part of a community that values privacy, security, and innovation.

## Ready to Jump In?

If you're as excited as we are about the future of Joinstr, now's the time to get involved. Check out the [documentation](https://docs.joinstr.xyz/) to learn more and head over to the [GitLab repository](https://gitlab.com/1440000bytes/joinstr) to start contributing.

Let's make Joinstr the future of private and secure Bitcoin transactions. 

Are you in? 🌟 Join us on telegram https://t.me/Joinstr

JoinStr prototype

you got it! Thanks for adding the reference

Introducing: JoinStr 🦃 A Decentralized CoinJoin Implementation using NOSTR

Depends on the kind of relays users prefer to use for a round.

Example: If users prefer to use paid relays in a round then cost is decided by nostr relay

Also encrypted channels right now are not implemented, which it would help in reducing DoS vectors