Zero-knowledge proofs are a form of encrypted communication that allow two users to prove the accuracy of some data without actually revealing the content of that data. This technology is based on a mathematical theorem called the 'Zero-Knowledge Succinct Non-Interactive Argument of Knowledge' or 'zk-SNARK.' Zk-SNARK proofs are considered to be the most efficient and secure method of anonymous communication in public distributed ledgers.

The purpose of zk-SNARK is to eliminate data disclosure by allowing two users to make trust-based transactions without directly disclosing the data. This means that users can trade on a blockchain or other data exchange protocols without worrying about the true nature of the transaction being exposed. Using zk-SNARK, users can confirm the accuracy of a certain piece of data without having to publicly disclose it. This data can then be securely stored and processed without compromising its integrity.

Zk-SNARK is based on a set of mathematical algorithms developed by a team of cryptographers in the late 1980s. These algorithms are designed to produce a verifiable proof that confirms that certain data is valid without revealing the underlying information. This process is incredibly efficient, as the proof can be completed almost instantaneously and without using any expensive computing power.

Zcash is perhaps the most prominent example of a decentralized ledger using zk-SNARKs. By employing this technology, it is able to guarantee a high level of security for its users by eliminating the need for trust and offering them full privacy.

Despite its benefits, zk-SNARK is not without its drawbacks. In particular, its reliance on an initially trusted setup has been heavily criticized as a potential source of vulnerability. This setup requires a group of people to agree on certain security parameters before each transaction, creating a single point of failure. As a result, any party with access to the initial trusted setup can undermine the security of the system.

In conclusion, zk-SNARK is an incredibly powerful tool for secure and anonymous communication. It provides a solution to the perceived anonymity problem in Bitcoin-type blockchains and can be used on any number of distributed ledgers. However, its reliance on a trusted setup is seen as a potential security risk and is thus far its biggest drawback. Along with other developments in privacy-oriented computing, zk-SNARK shows great potential in the future and will hopefully become increasingly more secure, efficient, and private.