Bybit's report on blockchain freezing mechanisms: a trade-off between security and decentralization

A recent report from Bybit's Lazarus Security Lab, "Blockchain Freezing Exposed," provides a technical analysis of fund-freezing mechanisms in blockchain protocols. The investigation was prompted by a community debate after the Sui Foundation intervened to freeze assets following a hack. Key findings from the report: - The team analyzed 166 different blockchains. - 16 chains were confirmed to have existing, built-in fund-freezing capabilities. - An additional 19 chains were identified as having the potential to support such functions in the future. The report categorizes these abilities into three main types: hardcoded freezing, config file-based freezing, and on-chain smart contract freezing. The document highlights a central discussion point: while this capability "runs counter to the core principle of decentralization" , it has also been used as a tool for "swift remediation of financial damage" by preventing attackers from moving stolen assets. This presents a significant trade-off between protocol-level security interventions and the philosophical foundations of decentralization. What are your thoughts on this technical trade-off? 💬 #Blockchain #CryptoSecurity #Decentralization #Fintech #RiskManagement

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Adam Vaziri, it's fascinating to see how these fund-freezing mechanisms spark such a deep dialogue within our community. Balancing protocol security and decentralization is indeed challenging. But creating tools for protection without undermining trust could redefine our approach to blockchain protocols. Let's prioritize thoughtful discussions on this vital trade-off. #Blockchain

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