A client wants to skip vulnerability testing for a smart contract. How do you handle the risk?
Convincing a client to avoid skipping vulnerability testing for a smart contract is crucial for the project's security. Here’s how you can handle this situation effectively:
How would you convince a client to prioritize security testing?
A client wants to skip vulnerability testing for a smart contract. How do you handle the risk?
Convincing a client to avoid skipping vulnerability testing for a smart contract is crucial for the project's security. Here’s how you can handle this situation effectively:
How would you convince a client to prioritize security testing?
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Educate, Don’t Dictate – Explain that a single exploit can drain millions. The cost of testing is minimal compared to a security breach. Show, Don’t Tell – Use real-world hacks (like The DAO or Ronin Bridge) to demonstrate the catastrophic risks of ignoring security. Offer Solutions – If they’re concerned about time, suggest quick audits, automated tools, and post-deployment monitoring instead of skipping entirely. Risk Acknowledgment – If they insist, document the risks formally. No one wants to sign off on potential disaster!
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Skipping vulnerability testing in a smart contract introduces significant security risks. Emphasizing potential exploits, financial losses, and regulatory implications helps highlight the importance of thorough testing. Recommending alternative solutions, such as third-party audits or limited scope testing, ensures security without delaying deployment, balancing client priorities with risk mitigation.
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I see that many customer feel aspects like performance and security are not v.important because of the nature of business. But how strong are tech teams in critical businesses enabled to detect performance/security issues which already exist in their systems. I would say very few. Yes, Educating customer is not that happens in one quick meeting. Its a continuous effort !!
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Client wants to skip testing? Great idea. Let’s also leave the front door open and hope no one robs the place. First, explain what happens when a smart contract fails. Money disappears, lawsuits happen, and they become the next big hack story. I always say, “A smart contract that is not tested is just a ticking time bomb” Next, show real disasters. DAO hacks, bridge exploits, billions lost because someone thought testing was a waste of time. If they still refuse, fine. But make sure they sign something that says, “I ignored security and now my project is doomed.”
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Educate the Client – Explain the critical security risks, potential exploits, and financial losses associated with skipping vulnerability testing. Obtain Written Confirmation – Document their decision formally, outlining the risks and their acceptance of responsibility. Suggest Alternative Measures – Propose lightweight security audits, automated tools, or third-party assessments to mitigate risks. Limit Liability – Clearly define in contracts that security flaws due to skipped testing are not the company's responsibility. Monitor Post-Deployment – Encourage continuous monitoring and bug bounty programs to detect vulnerabilities early.
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