Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of blockchain technology?

The characteristic that is not associated with blockchain technology is the ease of alteration. Blockchain is designed to be a secure and transparent method of recording transactions across a distributed network of computers. This technology emphasizes the immutability of data, meaning once a transaction is recorded in a block and added to the chain, it cannot be easily changed or removed. This security feature is crucial for maintaining trust among participants in the blockchain network.

The decentralized nature of blockchain allows for data to be managed without a central authority, providing resilience and reducing the risk of corruption or manipulation. Additionally, transparency is inherent in blockchain systems, as all participants in the network can access the same information, making it possible to verify transactions and maintain accountability. Therefore, the notion of ease of alteration directly contradicts the foundational principles that make blockchain technology effective in ensuring secure and trustworthy transactions.