Bridging is the process of moving assets from one blockchain network to another, since most blockchains can’t natively communicate with each other. Bridges are essential infrastructure for a multi-chain crypto ecosystem, but they’ve also historically been one of the most frequently exploited categories of DeFi infrastructure.
Key Takeaways
- Bridges typically work by locking (or burning) an asset on the source chain and minting a corresponding representation on the destination chain.
- Bridging enables interoperability between otherwise isolated blockchain ecosystems.
- Different bridge designs carry different trust assumptions — some rely on a centralized custodian, others on a decentralized validator set.
- Bridges have been among the most frequently and severely exploited targets in DeFi history.
- Researching a specific bridge’s security model and audit history before using it for significant value is an important due-diligence step.
Our Take
Bridges occupy a structurally risky position in DeFi infrastructure precisely because of what they need to do: hold a large pool of locked assets on one chain while representing that value on another, creating a concentrated target.
The practical implication is that bridging carries meaningfully different (and often higher) risk than simply holding assets on an established base chain, even when the underlying assets themselves are considered safe.
FAQs
Why are crypto bridges frequently targeted by hackers?
Bridges often concentrate large amounts of locked value in a single point of infrastructure, making them an attractive, high-value target.
Are all bridges equally risky?
No — different bridges use different security models with meaningfully different trust assumptions and risk profiles worth researching before using one.
📎 Source: Coinbase Learn — What is bridging in crypto?
