tBTC Bridge Partially Resumes Operations, Aave Reserve of $120 Million Remains Frozen

The tBTC bridge on the Threshold Network began partially resuming operations on November 8, 2026, after a 9-day suspension due to a security vulnerability. According to the developers, node operators are gradually reconnecting to the network after installing updates. Meanwhile, the tBTC reserve valued at approximately $120 million in the Aave lending protocol remains unavailable for new deposits and increased loans backed by the token.

tBTC is a token backed by Bitcoin (BTC), allowing its use in decentralized finance applications on other blockchains. Operations with collateral are controlled by a network of independent operators who jointly verify Bitcoin transfers, token issuance, and redemption.

Why Threshold Suspended the tBTC Bridge

On October 30, Threshold halted bridge operations after identifying a critical vulnerability in the Linux operating system core. The issue potentially allowed attackers to remotely execute code on servers where necessary security updates were not installed.

Node operators began installing patches or temporarily disabling equipment. According to Threshold, there were no signs of the vulnerability being exploited against the tBTC infrastructure.

On November 8, developers reported the resumption of the base network's operations as updated nodes returned. Deposit and redemption requests submitted before the suspension are expected to be processed gradually.

However, the bridge interface is not yet accepting new BTC deposits, tBTC issuance requests, or token redemptions for Bitcoin. Full access to these functions will be restored after a sufficient number of operators reconnect. Threshold has not announced a specific date.

Aave Maintains Restrictions on tBTC Reserve

On October 31, the decentralized lending protocol Aave restricted operations with tBTC in its main Ethereum Core market. The measure was aimed at preventing increased credit risks during a period when users could not redeem tBTC through the bridge.

The freeze prohibits new tBTC deposits and the use of additional tokens as collateral to increase the available loan amount.

Existing users can still withdraw previously deposited assets and repay loans. Forced position closures due to insufficient collateral also remain available.

According to risk assessment service provider LlamaRisk, the restriction itself does not change the collateral metrics of existing positions and does not automatically lead to their liquidation.

The organization intends to propose the resumption of reserve operations after confirming the normal functioning of the Threshold infrastructure.

tBTC Collateral Remains in Bridge Wallets

According to Threshold, approximately 4,320 BTC are held in bridge wallets, while about 4,185 tBTC are in circulation.

Developers reported no unauthorized Bitcoin transfers or token issuances without corresponding collateral. In their assessment, the circulating tBTC continues to be backed by reserves.

The partial restoration of the base network does not yet mean the end of all restrictions. The timeline for resuming new operations through the bridge and the potential lifting of Aave's restrictions remains unknown.