Definition ∞ Bribery attacks in blockchain involve offering incentives to network participants to manipulate transaction validation or network operations. These malicious actions typically target miners or validators in proof-of-work or proof-of-stake systems, attempting to coerce them into acting against the network’s consensus rules. The goal is often to facilitate double-spending, censor transactions, or alter the blockchain’s history for financial gain. Such attacks exploit the economic incentives within decentralized networks, aiming to subvert their integrity through corrupting honest actors. They represent a significant security concern for various blockchain protocols.
Context ∞ Discussions surrounding bribery attacks frequently appear in news reports concerning the security vulnerabilities of smaller or less decentralized blockchain networks. The threat is particularly pertinent for protocols with lower hashing power or stake distribution, making them more susceptible to such coercive tactics. Researchers continually investigate new defense mechanisms, including improved economic modeling and protocol adjustments, to strengthen network resilience. Awareness of these attack vectors is crucial for assessing the robustness of digital asset systems.
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