Sybil Attack Definition - Glossary

A Sybil Attack is when one entity creates multiple fake identities to manipulate or control a network or system.

A Sybil Attack is when an entity creates numerous fake identities or nodes to gain control over a network. This manipulation can disrupt consensus mechanisms, skew data, or facilitate fraudulent activities. In blockchain and peer-to-peer networks, these attacks aim to outvote honest participants, leading to potential double-spending or other malicious activities. By flooding the network with fake identities, the attacker can influence decisions and degrade the system's integrity. Effective defenses include identity verification, resource-based mechanisms, or reputation systems to detect and mitigate these fraudulent identities, preserving the network's security and trustworthiness.