$BTC They use blockchain technology to record every transaction in an open, tamper-evident ledger.Bitcoin, launched in 2009, introduced peer-to-peer value transfer without traditional banks.Beyond money, thousands of tokens enable smart contracts, decentralized apps, and tokenized assets.Prices swing widely, offering opportunities for traders and risks for everyday users.Security hinges on private keys, secure wallets, and cautious handling to avoid scams.Regulation and institutional adoption are shaping the long-term role of crypto in the global economy.