Glossary
51% Attack Meaning: What Does 51% Attack Mean in Crypto?
Definition
Controlling majority of network hash power to rewrite blockchain history
A 51% attack allows reversing transactions and double spending; while theoretically possible, the cost for major networks like Bitcoin exceeds billions, making it economically irrational. Attack Capabilities: Double spend own coins, block transactions, reverse recent history. Limitations: Cannot steal others coins, create new coins, alter old blocks. Cost Analysis: Bitcoin: $15B+ hardware plus electricity. Small coins: Sometimes only thousands, hence vulnerable.