Blockchain Audits and the Role of the Auditor

The podcast episode discusses the evolution of the role of an auditor in the blockchain space. In the past, auditors focused on conducting quick audits for ICOs during the peak of the ICO boom in 2017-2018. However, as the industry matured, the role of auditors shifted to auditing more complex and advanced blockchain protocols, such as proof of stake and zero knowledge systems. The shift was driven by the need to ensure the security and robustness of these new protocols, which involved analyzing not only the code but also the papers and cryptographic proofs behind them. The podcast also touches upon the challenges of auditing systems that rely on privacy-preserving tools like zero knowledge proofs and the importance of understanding the complexities and subtleties of these technologies. Additionally, the episode highlights the collaboration between academia and industry in discovering vulnerabilities and improving the security of systems, with examples of recent vulnerabilities found in Zcash and Monero. Overall, the podcast emphasizes the significance of auditors in ensuring the security and trustworthiness of blockchain systems and the need to adapt to the evolving landscape of technology.