Definition ∞ A technique employed to disrupt or manipulate blockchain networks by overwhelming specific addresses with a deluge of small, often valueless, transactions. This tactic can serve to obscure legitimate activity, increase transaction fees for genuine users, or potentially trigger cascading failures in automated systems that process these transactions. The primary objective is typically to degrade network performance or create a distraction for malicious actors.
Context ∞ Address poisoning is a recurring concern within the cryptocurrency ecosystem, particularly during periods of heightened network congestion or when new attack vectors are being tested. Discussions often center on the efficacy of existing network defenses and the development of more robust filtering mechanisms to mitigate the impact of such activities. Observers are monitoring the evolution of these attacks and the corresponding defensive strategies adopted by protocol developers and users alike.