Definition ∞ Decentralized AI Risk pertains to the potential hazards and vulnerabilities associated with artificial intelligence systems operating on decentralized networks. These risks extend beyond traditional AI concerns, incorporating challenges inherent to blockchain architectures, such as smart contract vulnerabilities, consensus mechanism exploits, and the difficulty of upgrading or correcting errors in immutable systems. The absence of a central authority, while offering benefits, can complicate oversight and response to malicious or unintended AI behaviors. This intersection of AI and blockchain introduces novel security and operational complexities.
Context ∞ As artificial intelligence capabilities are increasingly integrated with decentralized protocols, discussions around decentralized AI risk are gaining prominence. News articles frequently address the security implications of autonomous AI agents executing actions on-chain without central control. A significant concern involves preventing adversarial attacks or unintended consequences that could impact network stability or user assets in these advanced systems.