Definition ∞ Data stream integrity refers to the assurance that data transmitted continuously over a network remains unaltered and accurate from its origin to its destination. This property confirms that information has not been tampered with or corrupted during transit. Maintaining this integrity is essential for reliable data processing. It guarantees data trustworthiness.
Context ∞ For digital assets and blockchain systems, data stream integrity is paramount for validating transaction histories, oracle feeds, and real-time market data. Any compromise could lead to significant security vulnerabilities or incorrect financial decisions. Ongoing efforts concentrate on cryptographic hashing and secure communication protocols to preserve data veracity in decentralized networks.