Slashing Mechanism refers to a punitive measure used in some blockchain networks, particularly those employing proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus. It is designed to encourage proper behavior among validators—participants responsible for validating transactions and securing the network.When a validator acts maliciously or fails to fulfill their duties, such as double-signing blocks or going offline for extended periods, a portion of their staked tokens is forfeited or “slashed.” This loss serves as both a deterrent against dishonest behavior and a way to maintain network integrity.The slashing process ensures that validators are held accountable for their actions. It incentivizes them to act in the best interest of the network, thus promoting stability and trust. This mechanism is crucial for securing PoS networks and enhances overall security by motivating validators to remain active and honest.Consequently, the slashing mechanism is integral to maintaining a reliable and secure environment for all network participants.