A tap, faucet or valve (faucet) is an online resource that gives users microscopic amounts of cryptocurrency for free in exchange for performing simple actions. The name reflects the mechanics: coins arrive in small portions, like drops from a slightly opened tap. Typical tasks include entering a captcha, following links, watching ads or taking part in simple activities on the site.

Faucets appeared at an early stage of the industry as a way to introduce new users to digital assets and get them used to working with wallets and addresses. Today they are more often used by projects to attract an audience and test networks. In test blockchains, faucets hand out currency that has no real value, so that developers can test smart contracts and applications.

You should approach faucet services with caution. Payout amounts are usually extremely small, and among such sites there are dishonest resources that collect data, push ads or fail to make the promised payments. Before using a faucet, it is important to check its reputation and not to share confidential information or private keys.