A 51% attack on a cryptocurrency blockchain occurs when one miner or group of miners take control of more than 50% of the network’s mining hash rate, giving them control of more than 50% and giving them unjustifiable control over it – giving them enough influence over its manipulation that they could, for example, prevent transactions from being approved or reverse their histories (known as double spending).

At present, it seems unlikely that attacks would affect leading cryptocurrencies, like Bitcoin. These networks consume such vast quantities of computing power that it would be prohibitively costly for anyone else to obtain the necessary resources to mount an effective attack.

However, 51% attacks remain a very real risk to smaller cryptocurrency networks with lower hash rates. Such networks should be avoided by investors until they gain sufficient information regarding their coin’s development team and security features.

Attacking any major cryptocurrency requires vast computing power and community support from its community members, so 51% attacks typically target small cryptocurrencies with lower participation rates and reduced computing power than their larger counterparts like Bitcoin. A successful attack could cost billions of dollars and necessitate ownership of at least 50% of staked Bitcoin in order to be successful.

Many investors are alarmed at the possibility of a 51% attack on cryptocurrency investments, yet such attacks only apply when those possessing majority control of mining hash rate and validation authority for it. Therefore, investors should prioritize those cryptocurrencies with large markets and high adoption rates so as to minimize their risk and reap all the benefits from an expanding industry.

Investing in cryptocurrency can be an exciting and fulfilling way to diversify your financial portfolio, yet be wary of scams that ask for too much personal data or appear too good to be true. Proof of Work security protocols may also increase risk due to 51% attacks.

By understanding the basics of blockchain technology, you can better safeguard your investments and ensure you make wise cryptocurrency choices. With such knowledge in hand, it should give you peace of mind that successful attacks on Bitcoin blockchain are highly unlikely; focus on investing in stable projects with strong development teams instead. Nonetheless, always conduct adequate research before purchasing cryptocurrency – this will give you confidence to make sound investments with confidence and reap its rewards later on.