Civil liability in smart contracts
Challenges for the definition of those responsible in case of technical failures
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.23925/ddem.v.1.n.13.68665Keywords:
Civil liability, Smart contracts, Technical failures, Coding security, Digital legislationAbstract
This article addresses civil liability in smart contracts, highlighting the challenges that arise from technical failures or coding errors. Using the inductive method and an analysis of up-to-date literature, the study explores the differences between traditional concepts of civil liability and the new challenges posed by smart contract technology. The research is based on theories of civil liability, particularly those that discuss faults and risk, adapting them to the digital context. The article seeks to answer two central questions: (1) How does the immutability of smart contracts affect the possibility of damage reparations in the event of technical failures? (2) What technological and legal mechanisms can be implemented to prevent technical failures in smart contracts, and how can these mechanisms be integrated into existing legislation? To address these issues, the study proposes the creation of new legal models that include guidelines to ensure secure coding, shared responsibility between developers and platforms, and the introduction of specific mechanisms for conflict resolution. The conclusion is that current legislation is insufficient to adequately address the particularities of smart contracts, especially regarding the definition of liability in the event of technical failures.
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