Analysing Attacks on Blockchain Systems in a Layer-based Approach

TL;DR

A framework is proposed that enables a systematic analysis of the impact and interconnection of these attacks, thereby providing a means of identifying potential attack vectors and designing appropriate countermeasures to strengthen any blockchain system.

Abstract

Blockchain is a growing decentralized system built for transparency and immutability. There have been several major attacks on blockchain-based systems, leaving a gap in the trustability of this system. This article presents a comprehensive study of 23 attacks on blockchain systems and categorizes them using a layer-based approach. This approach provides an in-depth analysis of the feasibility and motivation of these attacks. In addition, a framework is proposed that enables a systematic analysis of the impact and interconnection of these attacks, thereby providing a means of identifying potential attack vectors and designing appropriate countermeasures to strengthen any blockchain system.

Figures (28)

• Figure 1: Fork and Longest Chain Rule
• Figure 2: Blockchain Layers
• Figure 3: Overview of Balance Attack
• Figure 4: Overview of Sybil Attack
• Figure 5: Overview of Eclipse Attack