A free rider refers to an individual who benefits from a resource or service without contributing to its cost or maintenance. In the context of blockchain and cryptocurrencies, this often involves users who take advantage of the network’s functionalities, such as transaction processing and security, without participating in activities that support the ecosystem, like mining or staking.In decentralized networks, miners or validators expend resources—like computing power or capital—to secure the blockchain and validate transactions. Free riders can undermine this system by avoiding these responsibilities yet still enjoying the benefits, such as secure transactions and lower fees. This behavior can pose challenges to the sustainability of the network. If too many individuals opt to be free riders, it may lead to a decrease in the incentives for miners or validators, potentially resulting in less network security and slower transaction processing times. Encouraging participation and contribution from all users is essential to maintain a healthy and robust ecosystem.