Double Spending
What is Double Spending?
Double spending is a potential flaw in digital cash systems where the same digital token or currency is spent more than once. This typically occurs when a user initiates a transaction and then quickly sends the same funds to another recipient before the first transaction is confirmed.
Why It Matters
-
It undermines the integrity and value of a digital currency by allowing users to create money out of thin air.
-
Preventing double spending is a core requirement for any functional electronic payment system or blockchain network.
-
Merchants who accept unconfirmed transactions risk losing money if the initial payment is later invalidated.