The XRP Ledger has announced a delay in its Cleanup3_4_0 bug fix update, now set for activation on November 4, following a temporary drop in validator support. The amendment was originally scheduled to go live on October 23.
XRP Ledger Validator Vote Resets Activation
For the update to proceed, it requires backing from more than 80% of the 35 trusted validators, with at least 29 votes needed for 14 consecutive days. However, on October 21, the amendment’s support fell to 26 validators at 12:54 UTC, interrupting its approval period.
Support rebounded swiftly, reaching 29 votes again by 14:46 UTC, which has reset the countdown for activation. According to XRPLWin, the anticipated activation date is now November 4 at 14:46 UTC. This renewed delay comes just ahead of the upcoming Ripple Swell sessions focused on XRP Ledger upgrades.
Why Validators Must Hold Their Votes
The validator count has since improved to 31 of 35, providing a slight cushion above the minimum required. However, the voting count must consistently remain above 80% during each checkpoint, as another drop would restart the waiting period.
Details surrounding the recent dip in validator support remain unclear. A server outage or restart could lead to a validator’s vote not registering, and the available data does not indicate whether any validator intentionally withdrew their support.
This delay pertains to a software fix and does not affect the lending protocol, which remains inactive. Ripple has expressed intentions to introduce XRP lending; however, these changes require separate validator approval and are not yet operational.
What the Delayed Bug Fix Changes
The Cleanup3_4_0 update addresses a number of issues related to token handling, trading functions, and lending code. One critical correction will prevent an account authorized to destroy issued tokens from creating new tokens, which could lead to significant security vulnerabilities.
Additional adjustments will refine balance calculations for asset vaults and modify rules governing overdue or defaulted loans. The xrpld 3.4.0 release notes detail further fixes that impact escrow, digital collectibles, signatures, and permission checks.
While the lending protocol awaits its separate approval, Ripple continues to provide other services on the network. A recent analysis of XRP Ledger activity spotlighted new RLUSD custody support and wallet integrations, focusing on existing functionalities rather than the anticipated lending system.
As of October 22, the XRP Ledger’s lending protocol remains inactive. Even if the Cleanup3_4_0 amendment activates on November 4, validators must approve the lending and vault features independently before these services can be utilized.
