Definition ∞ A network attack is any malicious action directed at a blockchain network or its participants to disrupt its operation or compromise its integrity. These attacks can target the underlying infrastructure, consensus mechanisms, or individual nodes and users. The objective is typically to cause disruption, steal assets, or gain unauthorized control.
Context ∞ Discussions regarding network attacks in crypto news often highlight specific incidents such as 51% attacks, denial-of-service (DoS) assaults, or smart contract exploits. These events underscore the ongoing security challenges within the digital asset landscape. Observers should pay attention to the evolving sophistication of attack vectors and the effectiveness of defensive measures deployed by various blockchain protocols.