Sandwich bots have been causing disruptions on the Solana network, prompting the Solana Foundation to take action by removing certain validator operators from its delegation program. The decision was made due to the operators’ involvement in carrying out “sandwich attacks” on Solana users. In the foundation’s official Discord channel, Solana Validator Relations Lead Tim Garcia emphasized that these decisions are final, and enforcement actions will continue against operators engaged in mempool activities enabling sandwich attacks. Anyone found engaging in such activities will be rejected from the program, and any stake from the Foundation will be immediately and permanently removed.
Mert Mumtaz, the co-founder of Solana RPC provider Helius, expressed that the foundation’s move aims to prevent the delegation of funds to validators conducting malicious attacks that target retail users. Mumtaz explained that sandwich attacks are a form of maximal extractable value (MEV) attack designed to ensure that retail users receive the worst prices while attackers profit from the situation. Although Solana’s design naturally prevents such attacks, some actors modified their validators to enable sandwiching. Mumtaz also predicted that stake pools will likely adopt similar policies against sandwich attacks in the future.
The “sandwich attacks” that prompted the Solana Foundation’s decision are a common type of MEV where bots monitor the Solana network for users attempting to purchase a token. The bots then manipulate the transaction queue by jumping ahead and placing a large order for the token before the user’s order is processed. This tactic artificially drives up the token’s price, allowing the bots to profit by selling their tokens at the inflated price generated by the user’s trade. The user ends up losing out on potential gains due to the price manipulation caused by the sandwich attack.
The Solana Foundation’s decision to remove certain validator operators from its delegation program is seen as a positive step in combating sandwich attacks on the Solana network. By taking a firm stance against operators participating in mempool activities that enable such attacks, the foundation is sending a clear message that malicious behavior will not be tolerated. This proactive approach is essential for maintaining the integrity and security of the Solana network, ensuring that retail users can transact without falling victim to manipulative tactics employed by sandwich bots.
Moving forward, it is crucial for stakeholders within the Solana ecosystem to remain vigilant against potential threats like sandwich attacks and take necessary measures to protect users from such malicious activities. By adopting similar policies to prevent and deter sandwich attacks, stake pools and other entities can contribute to creating a safer and more secure environment for Solana users. With the ongoing efforts to crack down on malicious behavior, the Solana Foundation is demonstrating its commitment to maintaining a fair and transparent network where users can transact with confidence and security.
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