Chinese tech giant Tencent has received a patent for blockchain-based notices for missing persons, as the tech firm continues to explore blockchain applications despite shutting one of its non-fungible token (NFT) platforms recently.

See related article: Tencent’s Huanhe allows NFT refunds, halts further sales

Fast facts

  • Tencent’s design could enhance the efficiency of publishing such notices, local tech media 36kr reported on Monday, citing documentation on business information platform Tianyancha.
  • The patent is designed to enable data generation upon a request when a person has gone missing, which would be broadcast on the blockchain for verification. Once verified, the notice is stored on nodes to be published for a wider audience.
  • Tencent has been exploring opportunities in the Web 3.0 space, but it has struggled to keep its NFT platforms running amid looming regulatory concerns.
  • Last month, Tencent News shut its NFT marketplace to “adjust” and “transform” the business.
  • Tencent’s Huanhe, a major Chinese NFT platform, said last week it has halted further sales and would allow buyers to refund NFTs, in a move to “focus on the company’s core strategic considerations.”

See related article: Amid possible shutdown, Tencent’s NFT marketplace slows new releases