VeriChain - Blockchain-based Document Verification System

Overview

VeriChain is a secure, decentralized document verification system using Ethereum blockchain and IPFS. It allows users to upload documents, store their cryptographic hashes immutably on blockchain, and verify authenticity anytime via a simple web interface.

This system aims to prevent forgery, provide transparent audit trails, and leverage decentralization to avoid single points of failure in document verification.

Features

• Document Upload & Hashing: Client-side SHA-256 hashing for privacy; optional IPFS for large file storage.
• Smart Contract Storage: Immutable document hashes stored on Ethereum blockchain.
• Role-Based Access Control: Owner, exporter, and user roles govern permissions.
• Verification: Instant verification by comparing document hash with blockchain records.
• User-friendly UI: Responsive and modern React-based interface integrated with MetaMask.
• Transaction Logging: Full audit trail of all document operations.
• Statistics & Query: Real-time stats and document queries.

Technology Stack

• Blockchain: Ethereum, Solidity smart contracts
• Frontend: React, Web3.js, Bootstrap, CryptoJS
• Storage: Ethereum blockchain, IPFS (optional)
• Wallet Integration: MetaMask for secure signatures
• Hashing: SHA-256 (client-side)

Installation & Setup

1. Clone the repository

git clone <repo-url>
cd verichain-project

2. Install dependencies

npm install

3. Deploy Smart Contract

• Use Truffle or Remix to deploy the Solidity contract on Ethereum testnet or local Ganache.

4. Configure Frontend

• Update contract address and ABI in frontend source.
• Connect MetaMask wallet to deploy network.

5. Run the application

npm start

• Open http://localhost:3000 in your browser.

Usage

• Upload Documents: Select a file to hash it and optionally upload to IPFS, then send transaction to store hash on blockchain.
• Verify Documents: Upload or enter document hash to check authenticity.
• Manage Users: Owner can add authorized exporters to upload documents.
• View Stats & Logs: Check real-time stats and transaction logs.

Architecture

• Document hashes are stored immutably on blockchain.
• Client-side hashing ensures no sensitive file content is uploaded to server.
• Role-based smart contract access prevents unauthorized uploads.
• Transactions verified by MetaMask signatures.

Future Enhancements

• Multi-chain deployment for scalability.
• Advanced document encryption and digital signatures.
• API development for enterprise integration.
• Mobile app for easier verification.