Insights From DApp360 Workforce

In today’s dynamic technological landscape, Decentralized Applications (DApps) are reshaping industries, offering more transparent, resilient, and peer-to-peer interactions. As DApps grow in popularity, businesses are increasingly seeking DApp developers. However, the specialized nature of DApps means that hiring processes come with their unique legal considerations. So what are these intricate legal considerations when hiring a DApp developer? We explore them below.

 

1 .   Intellectual Property (IP) Rights

• Ownership of Code: It’s pivotal to establish who owns the codebase and other intellectual property developed during the contract. Generally, employers seek exclusive ownership, but there may be exceptions. Always spell this out in the contract to avoid future disputes.

 

• Pre-existing IP: DApp developers often use pre-built libraries or tools. Ensure the contract clarifies how these are licensed and if they can be integrated into your DApp without legal repercussions.

 

2.  Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure

Business strategies and proprietary algorithms are invaluable assets. Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) can shield your confidential information, ensuring the developer doesn’t leak or misuse it.

 

3.  Data Privacy and Protection

Blockchain’s transparent nature presents a conundrum when dealing with user data. DApps interacting with personal data should align with global privacy regulations like the GDPR or CCPA. These regulations dictate how data is stored, accessed, and shared, safeguarding user privacy.

 

4.  Regulatory Compliance

Financial or securities based DApps might tread into regulatory territories. Ensure your DApp developer is familiar with, and develops in compliance with, relevant local and international regulations.

A few regulation to keep an eye on with sample of their violation are:

• Securities Laws

  • Instance: The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has repeatedly indicated that tokens or cryptocurrencies could be considered securities, especially if they resemble an investment contract.
  • Violation: One of the most notable cases is the SEC vs. Telegram. In 2018, Telegram raised $1.7 billion through a token sale, which the SEC later deemed an illegal securities offering. Consequently, in 2020, Telegram had to return $1.2 billion to investors and pay an $18.5 million civil penalty.

 

• Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) Regulations:

  • Instance: Exchanges and DApps that facilitate the trade of cryptocurrencies may be subject to AML and KYC regulations, requiring them to verify the identities of their users and report suspicious activities.
  • Violation: In 2020, BitMEX, a well-known crypto exchange, faced legal action from the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and the Department of Justice (DoJ) for violating multiple regulations, including failing to implement adequate AML procedures².

 

• Data Protection and Privacy Laws

  • Instance: In the European Union, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) sets forth guidelines for the collection and processing of personal data. DApps handling European citizens’ data must comply.
  • Violation: While direct violations involving DApps are still emerging, the decentralized nature of blockchain poses challenges in adhering to data rights, like the “right to be forgotten” in GDPR. The potential for non-compliance exists if not approached correctly.

 

• Taxation:

  • Instance: Cryptocurrency transactions, including those on DApps, can be taxable events in many jurisdictions.
  • Violation: In the U.S., for instance, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has been sending warning letters to cryptocurrency holders reminding them to report their transactions. Failure to do so can result in penalties³.

 

• Decentralized Finance (DeFi):

  • Instance: DeFi platforms, which offer financial services without intermediaries, might fall under existing financial regulations.
  • Violation: In the nascent days of DeFi, many platforms operated without clear regulatory oversight, but as the industry has grown, so has scrutiny. The precise nature of violations will depend on evolving regulations and case-specific details.

 

These instances underscore the importance of legal diligence and the evolving nature of regulations in the decentralized world

 

5.  Security Measures

With blockchain’s immutable nature, rectifying mistakes isn’t easy. Prioritize developers with robust security practices and consider third-party audits for an extra layer of protection. Security measures to consider are:

Blockchain, despite its inherent security features, isn’t immune to breaches.

Here are some security measures that blockchains should take, accompanied by real-world examples of when these measures were not adequately addressed:

 

• Private Key Security: Private keys, which control access to blockchain funds or data, should be securely stored, often in hardware wallets or secure vaults.  In 2014, Mt. Gox, once the world’s largest Bitcoin exchange, declared bankruptcy after losing approximately 850,000 Bitcoins due to a long-standing exploit related to private key management.

 

• Regular Security Audits: Smart contracts and blockchain platforms should undergo regular third-party security audits to identify and rectify vulnerabilities. The DAO, a decentralized autonomous organization on Ethereum, was hacked in 2016, leading to a loss of around $60 million in Ether. This was due to a vulnerability in its smart contract, which might have been identified with rigorous auditing

 

• Rate Limiting & Transaction Monitoring: Implementing rate limits and actively monitoring transactions can help in identifying and preventing suspicious activities. Some exchanges and wallets have been slow to detect unusual withdrawal patterns, leading to significant thefts.

 

• Multi-Signature Wallets: Instead of a single private key, multiple signatures are required to authorize a transaction, adding an extra layer of security. Bitfinex, a major cryptocurrency exchange, lost around $72 million in 2016 due to a breach. Had multi-signature procedures been strictly implemented and monitored, the breach could potentially have been prevented.

 

• Up-to-date Software: Keeping node software up-to-date ensures that known vulnerabilities are patched. Old versions of Ethereum client software led to a split in the Ethereum network in 2016, illustrating the dangers of neglecting software updates.

 

• Network Security: Firewalls, DDoS protection, and other network security tools should be employed to protect blockchain infrastructure. Exchanges like Bitstamp and BTC-e have faced DDoS attacks affecting their operation, highlighting the importance of robust network security measures.

 

• Education and Training to be about vigilant with secrurity:  Regular training for developers and stakeholders is essential to ensure they are aware of the latest threats and best practices. Many vulnerabilities and breaches occur due to human errors, which could be minimized with proper education and training.  One example of human error is Axie Infinity hack, the hack was made possible when through the malicious part use of spear phishing to gain access. It resulted in half a billion dollar loss for the blockchain platform.

 

As blockchain technology becomes increasingly integrated into various sectors, the importance of these security measures cannot be overstated. Entities that fail to prioritize security might face significant financial, operational, and reputational damages.

 

6.  Smart Contract Nuances

Smart contracts are the backbone of many DApps. Clearly outline expectations regarding their conditions, maintenance, upgrades, and the handling of potential vulnerabilities.

 

7.  Payment Modalities

While traditional payment methods are valid, the DApp realm often sees payments in cryptocurrencies. Clearly define milestones, deliverables, and the corresponding payment structure.

 

8.  Termination and Liability

Establishing a mutual understanding about contract termination—its grounds and aftermath—is vital. Likewise, determining the extent of developer liability in case of security breaches or software failures ensures both parties are protected.

 

9.  Dispute Resolution and Jurisdiction

With DApp development often spanning continents, decide on a governing jurisdiction in advance. Moreover, determining an efficient dispute resolution mechanism can save time, money, and preserve business relationships.

 

Conclusion

DApp development, while promising, comes with its labyrinth of legal considerations. Properly navigating this maze can be the difference between a successful DApp deployment and a potential legal quagmire. When in doubt, always seek legal counsel familiar with the intricacies of the blockchain and DApp ecosystem.