There’s no single “safest” platform, as risk is inherent in crypto. However, established players like Binance.US, with its extensive coin selection and high liquidity, often represent lower risk compared to smaller, newer exchanges. Their sheer size and established reputation offer a degree of security, though not absolute immunity from market volatility or potential hacks. Coinbase and Gemini also provide relatively robust security measures and regulatory compliance, which are critical considerations for minimizing risk. Crypto.com presents a similar profile, but always independently verify their security protocols and insurance policies.
Crucially, remember that staking, while potentially rewarding, involves locking up your assets. Consider the risk associated with the specific coin you’re staking – its volatility and the overall health of its underlying blockchain. Diversification across platforms and coins is key to mitigate risk. Due diligence is paramount; examine each platform’s security features, track record, and insurance policies before committing funds. Remember, no platform is entirely risk-free in the volatile world of cryptocurrency.
Is there a downside to staking crypto?
Staking crypto isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. While you earn rewards, those rewards (and even your staked coins) can drop in value if the cryptocurrency’s price falls. Imagine earning 10% interest, but the coin itself loses 20% in value – you’re still down overall.
Slashing is a real risk. Think of it like getting a fine. If you accidentally break the rules of the blockchain network you’re staking on (maybe your computer goes offline for too long), a portion of your staked coins could be taken away. The rules are very specific and sometimes complex, so it’s vital to understand them before you start staking.
Finally, lots of people staking means lots of new coins being created as rewards. This can lead to inflation, meaning each coin is worth a bit less over time. It’s like printing more money – it reduces the value of what you already have.
Can you actually make money from staking crypto?
Staking crypto can absolutely generate income, but let’s be realistic. The ROI isn’t guaranteed and wildly fluctuates. It’s a function of several variables: the chosen platform’s fees (some are surprisingly high!), the specific cryptocurrency’s inflation rate and network demand (higher demand means less reward per token often), and the overall participation rate. A higher number of stakers means your share of the rewards shrinks proportionately.
Think of it like this: you’re essentially lending your cryptocurrency to secure the blockchain. The higher the risk associated with a given project, the potentially higher the reward…but also the greater the chance of losing your principal. Due diligence is paramount. Thoroughly research the platform’s security protocols, its team’s reputation, and the underlying cryptocurrency’s fundamentals before committing.
Don’t chase the highest APY blindly. While tempting, exorbitant returns often signal hidden risks or unsustainable models. Focus on established, reputable platforms and coins with strong community backing and a clear roadmap. Diversification across different coins and platforms is crucial for risk mitigation.
Tax implications are significant. Staking rewards are generally considered taxable income in most jurisdictions. Consult with a tax professional familiar with cryptocurrency to ensure you comply with the relevant regulations.
Can staking crypto be hacked?
Yeah, staking can be hacked, but it’s a matter of scale. Smaller, less-established blockchains are way more vulnerable. Think of it like this: imagine trying to rob a small bank versus Fort Knox. The smaller bank is easier to target, right? Similarly, smaller networks with fewer validators are easier to compromise. A 51% attack, where a malicious actor controls over half the network’s hash rate (for Proof-of-Work like Bitcoin) or staked crypto (for Proof-of-Stake like Ethereum), is theoretically possible, but incredibly expensive and risky on major chains.
Bitcoin and Ethereum, being giants, are practically immune to this. The cost of accumulating 51% of their hash rate or staked ETH is astronomical, making it a highly unprofitable and incredibly detectable endeavor. Think about the sheer computational power or capital required – it’s just not feasible for any single entity or group, not to mention the immense scrutiny they’d face.
However, this doesn’t mean everything’s perfect. There are still risks associated with staking, like vulnerabilities within the specific staking platform or smart contracts you’re using. Always research the platform’s security thoroughly; look for audits and a proven track record before committing your funds. Diversification across multiple reputable staking platforms is also a good risk-mitigation strategy.
Don’t just blindly trust any staking service! Due diligence is key to protecting your crypto investment, even with the largest and most secure networks.
What is the most secure crypto system?
There’s no single “most secure” crypto system; security is multifaceted and depends on several factors. Ethereum’s robust security stems primarily from its Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus mechanism, which is significantly more energy-efficient than Bitcoin’s Proof-of-Work (PoW). While PoS reduces the attack surface compared to PoW, it’s not invulnerable. The large network size and extensive code audits contribute to its security, but vulnerabilities are constantly being discovered and patched across all cryptocurrencies. The security of any blockchain also relies heavily on the overall network health, participation, and the competence of its developers in addressing vulnerabilities. Smart contract security is another crucial aspect; flaws in Ethereum smart contracts can lead to significant exploits. Therefore, considering the overall ecosystem, including the sophistication of its users and the strength of its community response to security threats, helps determine its relative security compared to others, but absolute security is an unrealistic expectation in any cryptocurrency.
Analyzing on-chain data, like the hash rate and block times for PoW chains, or validator participation and stake distribution for PoS chains, provides insights into the current security posture. However, remember that these metrics alone don’t provide a complete picture. Consider diversifying your crypto holdings across different blockchains and protocols to mitigate risks associated with vulnerabilities in any single system.
What is the danger of staking crypto?
Staking crypto isn’t without risk. While it offers passive income, several things can go wrong.
Validator Downtime/Failures: Your chosen validator (like Coinbase) could experience hardware or software issues, network outages, or even be compromised. This directly impacts your ability to earn rewards. It’s not a question of *if* but *when* some downtime occurs. Research your validator’s track record carefully! Look for uptime statistics and reviews before committing your funds.
Slashing Penalties: Some Proof-of-Stake networks impose penalties (slashing) if your validator acts improperly – this could be due to things outside their control like network attacks, or due to technical faults on their part. You, as a delegator, can be indirectly affected by these penalties, losing a portion of your staked assets.
Reward Volatility: Staking rewards aren’t fixed. They fluctuate based on network activity and demand. What you earn might be less – or even nothing – than projected, especially during periods of low network activity or high validator competition.
Smart Contract Risks: If you stake through a DeFi platform, smart contract vulnerabilities remain a risk. Bugs or exploits could lead to the loss of your staked assets.
Illiquidity: Your staked assets are locked up for a period. This means you can’t quickly sell them if the market turns sour. Accessing your funds might also involve penalties or delays.
Regulatory Uncertainty: The regulatory landscape for staking is still evolving. Future regulations could impact your ability to stake or your tax obligations.
- Diversification is Key: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Spread your staked assets across multiple validators or protocols to mitigate risk.
- Due Diligence: Thoroughly research any staking platform or validator before participating.
- Understand the Terms: Carefully read the terms and conditions of the staking service to fully grasp the risks involved.
How to safely stake crypto?
Staking crypto safely hinges on choosing reputable platforms. While self-staking offers maximum control, it demands technical expertise and carries significant risk, especially with validator responsibilities and potential slashing penalties. Most opt for the convenience and security of trusted staking providers like Kraken, Binance, or Coinbase, leveraging their infrastructure and expertise. These platforms handle validator operations, reducing the complexities and risks for the average user.
Step 1: Acquire the chosen cryptocurrency. You’ll need to purchase the coin or token native to the Proof-of-Stake (PoS) blockchain you want to stake. Consider factors like tokenomics (inflation rate, reward structure), network security, and the platform’s reputation.
Step 2: Choose your staking method. Staking directly on an exchange is the simplest approach, but involves delegating your assets. You get passive income but relinquish control over your private keys. Alternatively, using a dedicated staking wallet like Ledger Live or Trust Wallet provides more control, offering direct interaction with the blockchain but requiring greater technical understanding and vigilance.
Step 3: Initiate staking. The process varies between platforms and cryptocurrencies. Generally, you’ll need to transfer your holdings to your chosen staking provider or wallet, lock them for a defined period (locking period varies depending on the coin and method), and then await reward accrual. Keep an eye on APY (Annual Percentage Yield), which fluctuates based on network activity and demand.
Important Considerations: Always thoroughly research any platform before staking. Check for security audits, track records, and community feedback. Understand the risks involved, including impermanent loss (if using liquidity pools) and slashing (penalties for network misbehavior in some PoS systems). Diversify your staking across different assets and platforms to mitigate risks. Regularly monitor your rewards and staked assets.
Beyond APY, consider the long-term vision of the project. Staking is not only about earning rewards; it’s also about contributing to the security and decentralization of the network you support. Look for projects with active development teams, solid roadmaps, and engaged communities.
What is the most trusted crypto platform?
There’s no single “most trusted” crypto platform, as trust is subjective and depends on individual needs and risk tolerance. Security, regulatory compliance, and features vary significantly. The “best” platform depends on your specific requirements.
Factors influencing trust: Regulation, security protocols (e.g., cold storage, multi-signature wallets, insurance), trading volume and liquidity, user reviews and reputation, transparency of operations, and customer support responsiveness are all critical aspects to consider.
- Coinbase: Large selection, generally considered reputable, but fees can be higher than competitors. Subject to US regulations, which offers a level of consumer protection but may also limit access to certain assets.
- Crypto.com: Strong mobile app, offers various services including a DeFi platform and a Visa card. Security is a key selling point, however, research their specific security measures before committing significant funds.
- Abra: Focuses on institutional and wealth management clients. High minimum investment requirements, not suitable for casual users. Assess its suitability for your specific financial profile.
- Kraken: Known for its robust security features. Wide selection of crypto assets, but lacks some of the user-friendliness of other platforms. Offers advanced trading tools for experienced users.
- Binance.US: A US-based arm of the larger Binance exchange, offering a degree of regulatory compliance. Security is a priority, but always examine their specific security measures. Be aware of potential limitations due to US regulations.
- Cash App Investing: Primarily focused on Bitcoin, user-friendly interface, but limited asset selection and potentially higher fees for smaller transactions. Suitable for beginners interested in Bitcoin primarily.
Important Note: All platforms carry inherent risks. Never invest more than you can afford to lose. Diversify your holdings across multiple platforms if deemed necessary and always conduct thorough due diligence before using any cryptocurrency exchange.
- Due Diligence Steps: Research platform security practices (e.g., two-factor authentication, cold storage), read user reviews, examine their track record, and understand the platform’s fee structure.
- Regulatory Compliance: Consider whether the platform operates in a regulated jurisdiction. This offers a layer of consumer protection, but might restrict asset accessibility.
- Security Best Practices: Use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and be wary of phishing scams.
What is the best crypto to stake?
There’s no single “best” cryptocurrency for staking; optimal choice depends heavily on your risk tolerance, time horizon, and technical expertise. High APYs often come with significantly higher risk. Consider these factors carefully:
Cardano (ADA): Offers relatively low but stable staking rewards. Security is considered high, and it’s a Proof-of-Stake (PoS) protocol with established infrastructure. However, reward rates are modest compared to others.
Ethereum (ETH): Post-Merge, ETH staking is secure and relatively straightforward, offering moderate rewards. However, unstaking involves a waiting period.
High-APY Options (Doge Uprising, Meme Kombat, Wall Street Memes, XETA Genesis, etc.): These projects often promise exceptionally high returns. This usually translates to substantially higher risk. They are often newer projects with less established security and may involve more complex staking mechanisms. Thorough due diligence is critical before investing; scams are prevalent in this space.
Tether (USDT): Staking USDT provides stability, prioritizing capital preservation over significant returns. It’s suitable for risk-averse investors seeking minimal volatility. However, returns are typically very low.
Important Considerations: Always research the specific staking mechanism, understand the lock-up periods (if any), and be aware of potential slashing penalties (loss of staked assets due to network infractions). Diversification across different staking options can help mitigate risk. Never invest more than you can afford to lose. Consider the project’s whitepaper, team, and overall ecosystem maturity before engaging in staking.
Can I lose my crypto if I stake it?
Staking your crypto means locking it up to help secure a blockchain network that uses a Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus mechanism. Think of it like depositing money in a savings account, but instead of interest, you earn staking rewards – a percentage of the network’s transaction fees. However, unlike a bank, there’s a risk involved. Validators (those who stake their crypto) are responsible for verifying transactions. If they try to cheat the system by validating false transactions, they can lose a portion or all of their staked crypto. This “slashing” mechanism incentivizes honest behavior and maintains the integrity of the network. The amount of risk varies depending on the specific blockchain and the validator you choose. Some platforms offer insurance or other risk mitigation strategies, but it’s crucial to research thoroughly before staking to understand the potential downsides.
The rewards you earn are usually proportional to the amount of crypto you stake. More crypto staked typically means higher rewards, but also a higher potential loss if something goes wrong. Staking isn’t a guaranteed profit; the rewards fluctuate based on network activity and other factors. Before you stake, consider the potential return versus the potential risk of losing some or all of your crypto. It’s also important to carefully choose a reputable staking provider or exchange.
In short, staking is a way to passively earn rewards while participating in the security of a cryptocurrency network, but it carries inherent risks. Always conduct thorough research and understand these risks before committing your funds.
Can you lose your crypto when staking?
While extremely rare with reputable staking providers, losing staked crypto is a possibility. This risk stems primarily from two sources: validator failure and network vulnerabilities. Validator failure occurs when the entity responsible for validating transactions on the blockchain becomes compromised or goes offline, potentially leading to unavailability or loss of your staked assets. The probability of this depends heavily on the validator’s security practices and infrastructure; choosing a well-established and transparent validator is crucial.
Network vulnerabilities, such as exploits or unforeseen bugs within the blockchain’s code, can also theoretically lead to asset loss. While blockchain technology is designed for security, no system is completely invulnerable. Regular security audits and community vigilance are vital in mitigating this risk.
The statement “no customer has lost crypto staking with Coinbase” is a snapshot in time and should not be interpreted as a guarantee against future loss. The statement reflects Coinbase’s current operational record, but the inherent risks of staking remain.
Diversification is key. Spreading your staked assets across multiple validators and even different staking platforms can significantly reduce the risk of a total loss. Always research thoroughly and carefully consider the reputation, security measures, and transparency of any validator or platform before staking your crypto.
Smart contracts are another point of failure. Many staking protocols rely on smart contracts, which are pieces of code operating on the blockchain. Bugs in these smart contracts could lead to loss of funds, highlighting the need for thorough audits and reputable development teams.
What is the safest platform to invest in cryptocurrency?
There’s no single “safest” platform for crypto investment; security is relative and depends on individual risk tolerance and due diligence. However, among Indian exchanges, Mudrex, CoinDCX, CoinSwitch, WazirX, and ZebPay are frequently cited for their relatively robust security measures. Consider these factors:
Mudrex stands out for its broad selection (650+ coins), often appealing to diversified investors. Their algorithmic trading and expert signals are attractive for those seeking less hands-on involvement, but remember past performance doesn’t guarantee future results. Lower fees are a plus, but scrutinize the fine print.
CoinDCX, CoinSwitch, WazirX, and ZebPay offer varying strengths: some excel in user experience, others in specific coin offerings or payment options. Thoroughly research each platform’s security protocols – including insurance, cold storage practices, and regulatory compliance – before committing funds. Compare fee structures carefully, noting maker/taker fees and any hidden charges.
Crucially: No exchange is completely risk-free. Implement robust security practices on your end: use strong, unique passwords; enable two-factor authentication; be wary of phishing scams; and never store large amounts of cryptocurrency on an exchange for extended periods.
Diversification across multiple exchanges (and ideally, cold wallets for long-term holdings) is a sound risk mitigation strategy. Don’t solely rely on rankings or recommendations; conduct independent research and assess each platform’s suitability to your specific needs and risk profile.
Can I get my crypto back after staking?
Yes, you can get your crypto back after staking. Think of staking as putting your crypto to work; it helps secure the blockchain network and you earn rewards. However, it’s not like a regular bank account where you can withdraw instantly.
There’s usually an “unstaking” period. This is a waiting time, like a cooldown, before you can access your crypto again. The length of this period varies depending on the specific cryptocurrency and the staking platform you used. Some might take a few days, others several weeks.
During the unstaking period, your crypto is still technically staked, and you won’t be able to use it – you can’t send it, trade it, or use it in any other way. This is to prevent people from rapidly jumping in and out of staking, disrupting the network’s stability.
Before staking, always check the unstaking period. Some platforms might display this information clearly, while others may require a bit more digging through their documentation or FAQs. Understanding this timeframe is key to avoid any unpleasant surprises or delays.
Think of it like this: you’re temporarily locking your funds to earn rewards. Once the unstaking period is over, your crypto will be unlocked and available for withdrawal.
Can you lose crypto by staking?
Staking crypto is like putting your money in a savings account, but for crypto. You lock up your coins to help secure the network and earn rewards. However, things aren’t always perfect.
Risk of Loss: While rare, you could lose your staked crypto. This might happen if the network itself has a major problem (think a big software bug) or if the company or individual you entrusted your crypto with (called a “validator”) experiences a failure. It’s like your bank going bankrupt – unlikely, but possible.
Coinbase’s Claim: Coinbase says none of *their* customers have lost crypto through their staking service. This is good news, but remember that other staking platforms might have different levels of security and risk.
Important Note: Not all cryptocurrencies can be staked. Also, the rewards you get for staking vary based on the cryptocurrency and the platform. Research thoroughly before staking any crypto. It’s similar to researching different banks before choosing one for your savings.
Diversification: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Spread your staked crypto across different platforms or coins to reduce your risk.
What is the risk of proof-of-stake?
Proof-of-Stake, while touted as the greener, more efficient alternative, isn’t without its thorns. Liquidity is a major concern; your staked assets are essentially locked up, limiting your ability to react to market shifts. This is a significant drawback, especially in volatile markets.
Then there’s the regulatory wild west. The lack of clear, consistent global regulation leaves you vulnerable to unforeseen legal changes that could impact your staked assets. This is an ongoing issue, and navigating this uncertainty requires careful consideration.
Price volatility remains a paramount risk with *any* cryptocurrency investment, but it’s particularly acute with staking. The value of your staked coins could plummet, potentially resulting in significant losses even if the staking rewards are positive.
Finally, and critically, there’s no guaranteed return. While staking promises rewards, these are not guaranteed. Network performance, validator competition, and even changes in the protocol itself can all impact your earnings. Think of it like this: you’re betting on the future success of the protocol *and* the stability of its token. Don’t bet the farm.
Furthermore, consider validator slashing. Some PoS networks penalize validators for malicious or negligent behavior, potentially leading to the loss of a portion of your staked assets. Due diligence in selecting a reputable validator is paramount.
Finally, centralization risks are real. While PoS aims to decentralize, a small number of powerful validators could potentially exert undue influence on the network, creating vulnerabilities to censorship or manipulation. The distribution of staking power should be carefully observed.
Can you pull out staked crypto?
Yes, you can always get your staked crypto back. It’s your crypto; you own it.
Staking is like putting your crypto in a savings account. You lock it up for a while, and in return, you get rewards (extra crypto).
Unstaking is taking your crypto out of the savings account. You can do this anytime.
- Verification: Before you can stake (or unstake), you usually need to verify your identity with the platform (like Coinbase). This is for security and regulatory reasons.
- Eligibility: Some platforms have minimum amounts you need to stake. Check the rules before you start.
Important things to know about unstaking:
- Early withdrawal penalties: Taking your crypto out early might mean you lose some or all of your rewards. Think of it like a bank charging a penalty for early withdrawal of a CD.
- Insufficient balance: You might need to have a certain amount of crypto in your account to unstake successfully. Check the platform’s requirements.
- Wait times: It doesn’t happen instantly. There’s usually a waiting period (the length depends on the specific protocol or cryptocurrency). It can range from a few hours to several days.
Is crypto staking worth it?
Crypto staking lets you earn rewards by locking up your cryptocurrency. Think of it like a high-yield savings account, but with crypto instead of dollars. You’ll get paid in more crypto for helping secure the network.
Is it worth it? It depends. Staking rewards often beat regular savings accounts. However, crypto prices fluctuate wildly. You might earn 10% in staking rewards, but if the crypto’s price drops 20%, you’ve still lost money overall.
Risks to consider: The biggest risk is the volatility of crypto. Also, some staking pools are less reputable than others, potentially leading to scams or loss of your crypto. Finally, “unstaking,” or getting your crypto back, can sometimes take time.
Things to research: Before staking, research the specific cryptocurrency you’re considering. Look for reputable staking providers (also called validators or nodes) with good track records and strong security. Understand the lock-up periods (how long you need to keep your crypto staked) and any associated fees.
Not a get-rich-quick scheme: Staking is a long-term strategy. Don’t stake money you can’t afford to lose, and only stake a portion of your crypto portfolio.
Which crypto is proof-of-stake?
Proof-of-Stake (PoS) is a revolutionary consensus mechanism in the cryptocurrency world, offering a significant improvement over the energy-intensive Proof-of-Work (PoW). Instead of relying on miners competing to solve complex mathematical problems, PoS networks validate transactions through a process of staking. Users who “stake” their coins – essentially locking them up in a network – are chosen to validate transactions based on the amount of cryptocurrency they’ve staked and the length of time they’ve staked it. This significantly reduces energy consumption and enhances the overall efficiency of the blockchain.
Ethereum 2.0, now simply Ethereum, is a prime example of a successful PoS transition. This shift marked a major milestone, addressing scalability issues and significantly lowering its environmental impact. Its transition highlights the growing adoption of PoS within the crypto landscape.
Chainlink, while not purely a PoS blockchain, utilizes a hybrid model incorporating elements of PoS to secure its oracle network. This enables reliable off-chain data integration, a critical aspect for decentralized applications (dApps) requiring real-world data.
Polkadot employs a nominated PoS (NPoS) mechanism. In this variation, validators are chosen by the token holders, which enhances security and decentralization compared to purely random selection.
Many other prominent cryptocurrencies utilize PoS, each with its own nuances in implementation. These include, but are not limited to, Cardano, Solana, Cosmos, and Tezos. It’s important to note that the specific mechanisms and rewards within PoS systems can vary considerably between different blockchains. Researching individual projects thoroughly is essential before engaging in staking.
Disclaimer: Kraken does not promote staking via these proof-of-stake projects.
What is the safest crypto platform?
There’s no single “safest” crypto platform; security is a multifaceted issue. The perceived safety depends on your needs and risk tolerance. Top contenders frequently cited include Coinbase, known for its user-friendly interface and robust regulatory compliance (though not immune to security breaches in the past), and Kraken, often praised for its advanced trading features and security measures. However, both have limitations. Coinbase’s fees can be higher than others, and Kraken’s interface can be less intuitive for beginners.
Key Factors to Consider Beyond Brand Recognition:
- Regulation and Licensing: Platforms operating in heavily regulated jurisdictions tend to have stricter security protocols. Check licensing and compliance details.
- Security Practices: Look for platforms employing multi-factor authentication (MFA), cold storage for a significant portion of their assets, and transparent security audits.
- Insurance and Compensation Schemes: While not foolproof, some platforms offer insurance or compensation schemes to protect users in case of hacks or security incidents.
- Track Record: Research the platform’s history. Has it experienced significant security breaches or controversies? A spotless track record is rare, but a history of quick responses to incidents and improvements is vital.
- Customer Support: Access to reliable and responsive customer support is crucial in case of problems.
Other Platforms to Research (with caveats):
- Binance: Huge trading volume, but also a history of regulatory scrutiny and security concerns. High risk/reward proposition.
- Gemini: Often considered more secure and regulated, but less feature-rich than some competitors.
- Bitget: Known for derivatives trading, but its security reputation is less established than others on this list.
- Uphold & BTCC: Generally considered to have broader functionality, but their security measures and regulatory compliance should be thoroughly investigated before use.
- Cryptomus: This platform requires deeper independent research as its security posture and reputation aren’t as widely known.
Crucially: Never keep significant amounts of cryptocurrency on any exchange for extended periods. Utilize hardware wallets for long-term storage to maximize security.
What happens if Coinbase gets hacked?
Coinbase getting hacked is a nightmare scenario, but their official response is, well, bureaucratic. They’ll investigate after you provide a police report, your personal details, a detailed account of the hack, and your support ticket number. Then, and only then, will they determine if you’re eligible for reimbursement. This is crucial: Immediately report the incident to both Coinbase AND the authorities. The speed of your response can significantly affect your chances of recovery.
Remember: Coinbase’s insurance likely won’t cover everything. Most exchanges have limits on their insurance coverage, and the specifics are usually buried deep in their terms of service. Read those terms carefully before you invest! Implementing strong security practices like using two-factor authentication (2FA) and a hardware wallet significantly reduces your risk, but it’s not foolproof. Diversifying your holdings across multiple exchanges can also mitigate the impact of a single exchange hack.
Consider these points: While Coinbase is a large and reputable exchange, no system is impenetrable. The investigation process can be slow and frustrating. Keep meticulous records of all communications and transactions. Finally, realize that you may not be fully reimbursed, regardless of the circumstances. Cryptocurrency investments inherently carry risks, and hacks are a part of that risk.
