Ethereum Redirects $220 Million for Long-Term Security Fund
By John Nada·Jan 30, 2026·2 min read
Ethereum redirects $220 million from unresolved DAO contracts into a security fund, marking a significant step in enhancing network safety.
Ethereum is taking a significant step in bolstering network security by redirecting roughly 75,000 ETH from unresolved DAO contracts into a long-term security endowment. This initiative, touted by Griff Green, co-founder of Giveth, aims to address the fallout from the 2016 DAO hack that split Ethereum in two. Green noted on Laura Shin’s Unchained podcast that the DAO Security Fund will deploy about 75,000 ETH, valued at around $220 million, to enhance Ethereum's security infrastructure.
The DAO collapse was a pivotal moment for Ethereum, catalyzing the emergence of a security culture within the ecosystem. Green emphasized this initiative is not just about addressing past failures but repurposing those unclaimed funds into a robust defense mechanism for Ethereum today. Most of the ETH will be staked, generating rewards that will fund security projects, while a portion remains liquid for any outstanding claims.
Community-driven governance will dictate funding decisions, utilizing mechanisms like ranked-choice voting and quadratic funding. The new board of curators includes notable figures like Vitalik Buterin and Taylor Monahan, ensuring diverse oversight.
This initiative transforms a historical crisis into a proactive measure for security, highlighting the evolution of Ethereum’s approach towards safeguarding assets. As the network now secures hundreds of billions in value, it’s crucial for stakeholders to feel confident in its safety compared to traditional banking. The DAO Security Fund represents a mature approach to managing risk in the crypto space.
