The crucial evolution of security in DeFi protocols

The crypto ecosystem is undergoing a major transformation in its security approach. Faced with massive losses caused by code vulnerabilities, experts are advocating for a fundamental paradigm shift within DeFi protocols, moving from a philosophy where code is paramount to an approach based on verifiable specifications. Daejun Park, senior security researcher at a16z Crypto, actively supports this strategic shift, highlighting more robust and systematic protection mechanisms to safeguard users.

Devastating losses that demand a response

The numbers speak for themselves: according to a Slowmist report, hackers stole over $649 million in 2025 by exploiting code flaws within DeFi protocols. This financial hemorrhage is accelerating, as illustrated by the misadventure of the Balancer protocol, operational since 2021. In November 2025, this established project suffered a loss of $128 million due to a technical vulnerability. These incidents demonstrate that even the oldest and most recognized projects remain vulnerable to sophisticated attacks, especially now that criminals are integrating AI into their arsenal to detect security flaws.

Park’s innovative proposal: specifications rather than code

Park’s proposed solution relies on a conceptual inversion. Instead of trusting the quality of code alone, his model advocates for implementing standardized specifications coupled with invariant checks. These mechanisms would automatically codify security rules and instantly cancel transactions that violate them. The major advantage: nearly all known attacks would trigger these safeguards, potentially neutralizing attackers before even executing their malicious transactions. This approach represents a fundamental turning point for the security of crypto and DeFi protocols.

Between technological ambitions and practical realities

However, this innovative vision faces legitimate criticism. Security leaders at Immunefi raise a key concern: the increased gas costs resulting from these checks could alienate users and contradict the principles of blockchain accessibility. Additionally, according to analysts at Asymmetric Research, drafting effective invariant rules proves complex for many vulnerabilities, with a constant risk of generating false positives that could paralyze legitimate operations. The ideal solution remains to be built.