Mask Network functions as a protocol enabling users to transmit encrypted messages via Facebook and Twitter, serving as a bridge between the standard internet and an overlaying decentralized network. The project debuted in July 2019, initially focusing on letting users encrypt posts on these social platforms. In November 2020, it secured $2 million in funding co-led by HashKey and Hash Global, followed by an additional $3 million raise in February 2021 with support from Digital Currency Group and Fundamental Labs.

Currently, Mask Network permits direct funding of Gitcoin grant campaigns through Twitter. The team also plans to introduce peer-to-peer payments and decentralized storage features. It operates as a decentralized portal that lets users access DApps for crypto payments, decentralized finance, decentralized storage, e-commerce (including digital goods and NFTs), and decentralized organizations (DAOs) directly on existing social networks without needing to migrate. This framework creates what is known as a decentralized Applet (DApplet) ecosystem.

Suji Yan established Mask Network as a startup. Before creating this project, Yan launched Dimension.im, a suite of products designed to support social liberty within the cypherpunk movement, with a particular focus on the “Right of Cryptography and Freedom of Interpretation.”

Mask Network distinguishes itself by enabling users to enhance the privacy of their digital communications. It facilitates decentralized activities such as exchanging encrypted messages with contacts, transferring cryptocurrency, sharing files, and engaging with DApps.

Mask Network introduced its MASK governance token in February 2021, with the goal of connecting Web 2.0 and Web 3.0. The token is managed by MaskDAO, a decentralized autonomous organization where holders exercise voting rights on major decisions, with each MASK equaling one vote. At launch, 100,000,000 MASK tokens were minted, and the remaining supply is scheduled to be released over three years. The allocation includes 7% for a “Community Public Offering,” 39.55% for the reserve, 14.25% for early investors, and 23% for the team.

Mask Network operates on the Ethereum blockchain, which shifted to a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism with the Merge.

Mask Network (MASK) is available for purchase on several highly ranked exchanges, such as Huobi Global, OKEx, Balancer, and 1inch.