Definition ∞ A multi-signature exploit involves compromising a digital wallet or contract protected by multiple required approvals. This attack targets the security mechanism where several distinct private keys are needed to authorize a transaction, rather than a single one. An exploit typically succeeds by gaining control of a sufficient number of these keys, or by finding a vulnerability in the underlying smart contract logic. Such a breach can result in unauthorized asset transfers from shared or institutional digital asset holdings.
Context ∞ The security of multi-signature schemes is a critical discussion point, particularly for decentralized autonomous organizations and institutional custody solutions. Developers continually refine smart contract code and operational security protocols to prevent the compromise of multiple key holders. A critical future development involves the advancement of secure key management practices and the implementation of robust audit procedures for multi-signature smart contracts to minimize attack vectors.