Aegis: A ZKP-Based Security Paradigm for Mitigating Cross-Chain Bridge Exploits

Abstract

This research preprint presents Aegis, a zero-knowledge-proof-based security paradigm designed to mitigate validator-compromise attacks in cross-chain bridges. The work empirically evaluates a ZKP-based withdrawal verification mechanism against an optimized multi-signature validator model under controlled conditions, demonstrating complete resistance to unauthorized fund transfers at the cost of increased Layer 1 gas consumption. The study introduces the concept of the cost of trustlessness as an empirically derived techno-economic metric and provides quantitative justification for migrating cryptographic verification to Layer 2 environments. This work was previously presented at FINCON’25, National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU), Gandhinagar, India. This version is released as a non-peer-reviewed research preprint for open dissemination and citation. Journal submission is in progress.