DeFi Protocol Exploit

Definition ∞ A DeFi Protocol Exploit is a successful attack on a decentralized finance application, leveraging a vulnerability in its smart contracts or economic design. These exploits typically result in the unauthorized removal or manipulation of digital assets held within the protocol. Such events can cause substantial financial losses for users and significantly damage the protocol’s reputation.
Context ∞ Reports on DeFi protocol exploits are a recurring theme in cryptocurrency news, often detailing large-scale asset drains and their impact on market sentiment. These incidents underscore the inherent risks associated with novel financial technologies and the importance of thorough security audits. The ongoing pursuit of more secure coding practices and robust economic models aims to reduce the frequency and severity of such attacks.