Definition ∞ A Layer Two vulnerability refers to a security weakness discovered within a scaling solution built on top of a main blockchain, commonly known as Layer One. These vulnerabilities can exist in smart contracts, off-chain protocols, or bridges that connect Layer Two networks to Layer One. Exploiting such a flaw could lead to loss of funds, data manipulation, or denial of service within the Layer Two environment. They represent a specific security concern for scalability solutions.
Context ∞ News often reports on audits of Layer Two protocols and occasional exploits that highlight these vulnerabilities, impacting user trust and adoption. As Layer Two solutions gain prominence for improving transaction speed and reducing costs, ensuring their security becomes increasingly critical. Developers continually work to identify and patch these weaknesses through rigorous testing and community review processes.