Blockchain Security from the Bottom Up

Blockchain tech has seen an explosive increase in popularity and utility over the last few years, with cryptocurrencies alone accounting for market capitalization in the trillions of dollars. Many crypto and blockchain users simply assume that the underlying technology is secure and that the supposedly invulnerable ledger is actually immutable. Importantly, however, this is not always the case.

In Blockchain Security from the Bottom Up: Securing and Preventing Attacks on Cryptocurrencies, Decentralized Applications, NFTs, and Smart Contracts, renowned blockchain and crypto expert Howard E. Poston III delivers a comprehensive intro to blockchain security at every layer of the blockchain ecosystem. The author offers in-depth discussions of how blockchain security should be implemented and how it can be attacked. Both theoretical and practical attack vectors are explained, along with accompanying countermeasures and case studies of real-world attacks and defenses.

This book expertly explores the constantly changing and evolving technology that forms the foundation of blockchain applications and offers readers a clear understanding of current industry best practices in blockchain cybersecurity.

Perfect for cybersecurity professionals whose work intersects with cryptocurrencies and other blockchain technologies, Blockchain Security from the Bottom Up belongs in the libraries of software developers at companies of all sizes engaged in the implementation of blockchain tech. Readers will also find:

• A thorough introduction to blockchain technology
• Comprehensive explorations of blockchain protocols
• In-depth discussions of the concept of blockchain consensus
• An exploration of smart contract vulnerabilities
• Illuminating case studies of real-world blockchain attacks and defenses

HOWARD E. POSTON III is an independent blockchain consultant, educator, and content creator who has developed and taught over a dozen courses covering cybersecurity topics. He holds a master’s degree in Cybersecurity from the Air Force Institute of Technology and is a Certified Ethical Hacker. He has developed and facilitated blockchain security courses for major companies.