> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://pains.gitbook.io/pains/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://pains.gitbook.io/pains/about-slowing-pains/definitions.md).

# Definitions

| Cardano                | A blockchain network known for its focus on sustainability, scalability, and security.                                                                                                                                                 |
| ---------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Blockchain             | A decentralized digital ledger technology that records transactions across multiple computers in a way that ensures the security, transparency, and immutability of the data.                                                          |
| Rug pulls              | Deceptive practices in the cryptocurrency market where creators of a project or token suddenly withdraw liquidity or abandon the project, causing investors to lose their funds.                                                       |
| Scams                  | Fraudulent activities aimed at deceiving individuals or businesses for financial gain, often involving impersonation, phishing, or misleading promises.                                                                                |
| Escrow                 | A financial arrangement where a third party holds and regulates payment of funds or assets between two parties involved in a transaction.                                                                                              |
| Discord hacks          | Unauthorized access or breaches in security within Discord, a communication platform often used by cryptocurrency communities.                                                                                                         |
| Impersonators          | Individuals or entities pretending to be someone else in order to deceive or defraud others.                                                                                                                                           |
| Crypto ecosystem       | The interconnected network of cryptocurrencies, blockchain technology, exchanges, wallets, and related services.                                                                                                                       |
| Coding errors          | Mistakes or flaws in programming code that can lead to unexpected behavior or vulnerabilities in software applications, including blockchain protocols.                                                                                |
| Financial compensation | Monetary reimbursement or restitution provided to individuals or entities for losses or damages incurred due to fraudulent activities, security breaches, or other adverse events.                                                     |
| Insurance pool         | A collective fund formed by contributions from multiple participants to cover losses, compensate victims, pay salaries, and fund development within an insurance ecosystem.                                                            |
| Self-Insurance         | A risk management strategy where individuals or entities bear the financial risk of potential losses themselves instead of transferring it to a traditional insurance company, often through the use of reserves or community support. |
| Traditional insurance  | Conventional insurance provided by established companies to mitigate financial risks associated with various aspects of life, business, or assets through contractual agreements and premium payments.                                 |