Blockchain & Cryptocurrency Glossary

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Data Validation

1 min read
Pronunciation
[day-tuh vah-luh-day-shun]
Analogy
Like a bank teller verifying that a deposit slip is properly filled out and the amount matches the cash before accepting the transaction.
Definition
The process of checking data for correctness, completeness, and conformity to expected formats or ranges before it is used in blockchain applications.
Key Points Intro
Data validation ensures that only accurate and well‑formed data enters blockchain systems.
Key Points

Schema checks: Validates JSON, Protobuf, or CSV against predefined schemas.

Range checks: Ensures numeric values fall within acceptable bounds.

Cross-field rules: Verifies interdependent fields maintain logical consistency.

Proof verification: Checks cryptographic proofs (Merkle, SNARK) for on‑chain data.

Example
A smart contract oracle validates that a submitted price feed includes a valid timestamp, non-zero price, and a proof-of-inclusion before updating the on‑chain state.
Technical Deep Dive
Validation modules use JSON Schema validators in Node.js or Rust to enforce field types, then run on‑chain require statements for proof verification via `verifyMerkleProof()`. Invalid submissions are rejected and slashed.
Security Warning
Insufficient validation can allow injection of malformed or malicious data; enforce checks both off‑chain and in smart contracts.
Caveat
Overly strict rules can reject legitimate edge-case data; balance strictness with flexibility.

Data Validation - Related Articles

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