Definition ∞ On-chain mitigation refers to security measures or corrective actions implemented directly on a blockchain protocol or smart contract to address vulnerabilities, exploits, or other adverse events. These actions are executed as transactions and become an immutable part of the ledger, often involving upgrades to contract logic, freezing compromised funds, or re-allocating assets through a governance vote. Such interventions are designed to contain damage and restore system integrity using the native capabilities of the blockchain. It represents a direct, transparent response to threats.
Context ∞ On-chain mitigation strategies are frequently reported in crypto news following major security incidents or protocol hacks, detailing how communities and developers respond to protect user funds. Debates often focus on the decentralization implications of such interventions and the speed with which they can be executed. The ability to perform effective on-chain mitigation is crucial for the long-term resilience and trustworthiness of decentralized systems.