With reference to Web 3·0, consider the following statements : 1. Web 3·0 technology enables people to control their own data. 2. In Web 3·0 world, there can be blockchain based social networks. 3. Web 3·0 is operated by users collectively rather than a corporation. Which of the statements given above are correct ?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 ✓ UPSC's answer

Why the answer is (d)

• Web 3.0 is the vision of a decentralised internet built on blockchains, in contrast to Web 2.0 dominated by platform companies.

• Statement 1 is correct: users hold their own data and identity in cryptographic wallets rather than on corporate servers.

• Statement 2 is correct: blockchain-based social networks (e.g. Lens Protocol, Steemit) exist where content and followers are recorded on-chain.

• Statement 3 is correct: Web 3.0 applications are meant to be governed collectively by users through tokens and decentralised autonomous organisations rather than by a single corporation.

• Hence 1, 2 and 3, option (d).

Why the other options are wrong

(a) 1 and 2 only: Statement 3 on collective user governance is also correct.
(b) 2 and 3 only: Statement 1 on user data control is also correct.
(c) 1 and 3 only: Statement 2 on blockchain social networks is also correct.

Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2022, held on 5 June 2022. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.