Definition ∞ Perimeter risk is the potential for security breaches at the boundaries of a system or network. This refers to the security exposure present at the interfaces or external points of interaction for a blockchain protocol, decentralized application, or related infrastructure. It involves vulnerabilities that could be exploited by external actors to gain unauthorized access. This may compromise the system’s integrity from its edges.
Context ∞ Managing perimeter risk is a constant challenge in the decentralized space, where public-facing smart contracts and cross-chain bridges present numerous potential attack vectors. News often reports on security incidents that originate from exploited perimeter weaknesses. This underscores the necessity for comprehensive security audits and continuous monitoring of external interfaces.