Definition ∞ Improper input sanitization is a software vulnerability where an application fails to adequately filter, validate, or encode user-provided data before processing it. This oversight allows malicious input to be executed or interpreted incorrectly by the system. Such a flaw can lead to various security compromises, including data corruption or unauthorized command execution.
Context ∞ In crypto news, improper input sanitization is frequently cited as a root cause for smart contract exploits, decentralized application hacks, or vulnerabilities in digital asset platforms. Reports often detail how attackers leverage unvalidated inputs to manipulate contract logic or gain unauthorized access. Recognizing this common security weakness is vital for understanding the risks within blockchain development and usage.