Consensus Redaction

Definition ∞ Consensus redaction refers to the process of modifying or removing data from a blockchain with agreement from network participants. This capability allows for the alteration of previously recorded information on a distributed ledger, departing from the typical immutability of many blockchain designs. It requires a predetermined majority or supermajority of network validators to approve the change. Such a mechanism is typically considered for specific use cases where data privacy regulations or error correction necessitate data modification.
Context ∞ The concept of consensus redaction presents a significant point of contention within the blockchain community, challenging the foundational principle of immutability. Proponents argue it is essential for regulatory compliance, particularly with “right to be forgotten” clauses in data protection laws like GDPR. Opponents caution that it could compromise the security and trustworthiness of decentralized ledgers, introducing centralization risks and undermining the historical record.