Definition ∞ Protocol Integrity Risk refers to the potential for the fundamental rules, mechanisms, or data structures of a blockchain protocol to be compromised or manipulated. This risk encompasses vulnerabilities that could lead to unauthorized alterations of the ledger, consensus mechanism failures, or a breakdown in the system’s intended behavior. Such compromises undermine the trust and security assurances inherent in decentralized networks. Maintaining protocol integrity is essential for the reliability of digital assets.
Context ∞ News reports frequently address Protocol Integrity Risk when discussing security audits, potential exploits, or governance debates within the blockchain space. Any identified vulnerability or successful attack on a protocol’s integrity can have severe consequences for the associated digital asset’s value and user confidence. Understanding these risks helps users and investors assess the robustness and long-term viability of various decentralized projects.