When comparing crypto bridges, ask who can stop your withdrawal—not just what the transfer costs.

Bridges connect separate blockchain networks, but their security models differ. An operator-controlled bridge adds reliance on the people or organization running it. Smart-contract-based designs reduce some reliance on operators, but bugs can still put funds at risk.

Before choosing a route, check the bridge’s documentation: who controls custody, who verifies transfers, and whether an operator can block them. A cheaper transfer does not answer those questions.

The practical distinction: operator misconduct and broken code are different failure modes. Removing one does not automatically remove the other. Treat the bridge’s security model as part of the cost of moving assets.

Source: Ethereum.org — https://ethereum.org/en/bridges/

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