MANTRA Chain halts network operations following software exploit

MANTRA Chain, a Layer 1 blockchain focused on real-world asset (RWA) tokenization, has halted all network operations following a security incident. The project confirmed that an attacker exploited a vulnerability in an upstream dependency—software used by the chain but developed externally.

As a precaution, the team has frozen all network endpoints, transactions, staking, and bridge operations. This halt has also impacted cryptocurrency exchanges, which have temporarily suspended deposits and withdrawals for the MANTRA token. While the team stated that a full network state snapshot was taken and user funds were not affected by the pause itself, the total impact of the exploit on assets remains unconfirmed.

The incident triggered a significant market reaction. The MANTRA token fell approximately 18.5% to an all-time low of $0.004126 before seeing a partial recovery to around $0.0044. Trading volume surged by nearly 600% to $24 million during the volatility.

Developers are currently testing a patched release, version 8.4.0, on the DuKong testnet. A full network restart requires coordinated action from all validators and will only occur once the fix is verified. This disruption comes as the project undergoes a restructuring process, with Inveniam Capital Partners expected to complete its acquisition of the platform in the third quarter of 2026.