Oracle Failure

Definition ∞ Oracle failure occurs when a data oracle, which feeds external information to a blockchain, provides incorrect, manipulated, or unavailable data. This can lead to smart contracts executing based on erroneous inputs, resulting in unintended financial outcomes or system vulnerabilities. The reliability of oracles is paramount for decentralized applications that depend on real-world data. Such failures pose a significant risk to the integrity of decentralized finance protocols.
Context ∞ Oracle failures are a frequent subject in crypto news, often associated with exploits, liquidations, or other disruptions in decentralized finance protocols. The security and decentralization of oracle networks are areas of intense focus and development. Projects continually seek to build more robust and resilient oracle solutions to prevent single points of failure and ensure the accuracy of off-chain data consumed by smart contracts.