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Chain Reorganization Risk

Definition

Chain Reorganization Risk refers to the possibility that a previously accepted block on a blockchain becomes orphaned or replaced by an alternative block sequence. This event occurs when a longer, valid chain is discovered by network participants, causing a rollback of transactions on the shorter chain. Such a risk is inherent in proof-of-work blockchains, particularly during periods of low network hash rate or malicious attacks. It introduces uncertainty regarding transaction finality.