Token Manipulation

Definition ∞ Token manipulation describes illicit activities undertaken to artificially influence the price or trading volume of a digital token. This can involve schemes like pump-and-dump operations, wash trading, or the dissemination of misleading information to deceive market participants. Such practices undermine market integrity and can lead to substantial financial losses for unsuspecting investors. Vigilance against token manipulation is essential for maintaining fair and orderly digital asset markets.
Context ∞ Concerns regarding token manipulation are frequently raised in relation to newly launched or low-liquidity digital assets, where price movements can be more easily influenced. Regulatory bodies are increasingly focused on identifying and prosecuting manipulative schemes, employing blockchain analytics to detect suspicious trading patterns. The discourse also includes the role of social media in amplifying such activities and the need for investor education to counter these threats.