Malicious Upgrade

Definition ∞ A Malicious Upgrade is an alteration to software or a protocol that introduces harmful functionality or vulnerabilities. This type of modification is deliberately designed to compromise security, steal assets, or disrupt operations. It represents a significant threat in systems where code execution dictates financial outcomes or data integrity.
Context ∞ In the context of smart contracts and blockchain protocols, a Malicious Upgrade is a severe security concern. News often reports on instances where developers or attackers have introduced backdoors or altered contract logic to siphon funds from users or protocols. Vigilance against such threats necessitates rigorous code auditing, secure upgrade mechanisms, and robust governance structures to prevent unauthorized or detrimental modifications.