51% Attack
Definition
A 51% attack occurs when an entity controls majority consensus power (hashrate in PoW, stake in PoS), enabling double-spending or transaction censorship. While not directly a quantum attack, quantum computers could theoretically accelerate gaining this majority in vulnerable systems.
Technical Explanation
Attack capabilities: double-spend (reverse own transactions), selfish mining (increase rewards), and censorship (exclude transactions). Attackers cannot steal from others, create coins, or change consensus rules—only manipulate their own transaction finality.
PoW quantum risk: Grover's algorithm provides √N speedup for mining puzzles—not enough alone for 51% control. PoS quantum risk: if private keys are vulnerable, quantum attackers could steal stake and gain control. Post-quantum signatures prevent this.
SynX Relevance
SynX's Proof of Stake with SPHINCS+ signatures prevents quantum attackers from stealing validator stakes. Decentralized stake distribution and quantum-resistant keys ensure no entity—even with quantum computers—can achieve 51% control through cryptographic attacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can quantum computers enable 51% attacks?
- On vulnerable PoS chains, yes—by stealing stakes. SynX's quantum-resistant signatures prevent this.
- What if someone buys 51% of stake?
- Economic cost is prohibitive. Slashing mechanisms punish misbehavior. Decentralization reduces concentration.
- Has SynX ever been attacked?
- Quantum-resistant design and decentralized staking make such attacks impractical.
Protected against majority attacks. Decentralized security with SynX