Slashing

Since Ethereum has transitioned to Proof of Stake, validators are now responsible for network consensus. Validators are rewarded with new ETH for their help in validating/attesting blocks and maintaining network security. Alternatively, slashing is the deterrent meant to disincentivize bad actors or inactive validators, as both can harm the network.Validatorsthat violatethe protocolrules will be punished via slashing, the removal of a portion of the validator's 32 ETH stake. Slashing primarilyonly affects validators who intentionally violate the rules.