Definition ∞ A cryptographic salt is a random piece of data that is added to a password or other secret before it is hashed. This salt is unique for each password, ensuring that even if two users have the same password, their hashed representations will differ. The purpose of salting is to prevent attackers from using precomputed tables of common password hashes, a technique known as a rainbow table attack. It significantly enhances the security of stored credentials.
Context ∞ Cryptographic salt is a fundamental security measure frequently discussed in the context of data breaches and the protection of user accounts on cryptocurrency exchanges and wallets. News reports on security incidents often highlight whether proper salting procedures were followed to protect user data. The ongoing evolution of cryptographic practices necessitates a clear understanding of such techniques to safeguard sensitive information within the digital asset ecosystem.
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