Oracle Vulnerability

Definition ∞ An oracle vulnerability is a weakness in the design or implementation of a decentralized oracle system that provides external data to smart contracts. Such flaws can lead to the provision of incorrect or manipulated data, compromising the integrity of the smart contract’s execution. This can result in significant financial losses or system failures.
Context ∞ Oracle vulnerabilities are a persistent concern within the decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystem, as many smart contracts rely on oracles for crucial real-world data like asset prices. News reports frequently detail instances where oracle manipulation has led to exploits, underscoring the critical need for robust data validation and security mechanisms. The development of more resilient and secure oracle solutions remains a priority for the industry.