Is crypto real money?

Cryptocurrency is often considered a form of digital or virtual currency, using cryptography for security, making it difficult to counterfeit. Unlike traditional currencies issued by governments (fiat money), cryptocurrencies operate on decentralized networks based on blockchain technology.

While not recognized as "real money" by all entities, they function as a medium of exchange, a unit of account, and a store of value. Bitcoin, the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, alongside others like Ethereum, has gained acceptance for various types of transactions and investments.