Key Prescreening Questions to Ask Smart Contract Auditor Before Defining a Role

What is your experience with Solidity?

Experience counts, especially when it comes to a complex language like Solidity. When asking this question, you're looking for an understanding of the candidate's command of the Solidity language, their hands-on experience, and how conversant they are with its quirks and features.

Can you explain how you have handled a security breach or error in a smart contract in the past?

Security breaches can occur even in the most fortified systems. This question seeks to understand the applicant's problem-solving abilities, their depth of understanding of smart contract vulnerabilities, and their proficiency in rectifying mishaps.

Do you have any professional certifications related to smart contract auditing?

A professional certification can affirm the candidate's abilities in auditing and validating smart contracts. So, let them explain their qualifications and how they apply to the job at hand.

Do you have experience with other blockchain platforms other than Ethereum, such as Tron or EOS?

Solidity doesn't operate in isolation. It's a core part of a wide ecosystem that includes various blockchain platforms. As such, a well-rounded understanding of the other platforms can be an added advantage.

How familiar are you with DeFi (Decentralized Finance) projects?

DeFi is a booming niche within the blockchain space. Therefore, familiarity with these projects implies the candidate understands some of the most practical applications of blockchain technology.

In your opinion, what is the most crucial aspect of a smart contract audit?

This question unveils the applicant's sentiments towards vital aspects such as security, resource management, and code quality in auditing smart contracts.

Can you discuss a challenging smart contract audit and how you managed the situation?

Like the proverbial "actions speak louder than words", past performance can be the most effective indicator of future performance. Hence, a recount of a real-world situation where the candidate resolved a challenging audit can show their level of adaptability.

Do you have experience conducting high-value or high-risk smart contracts audits?

High-value smart contracts typically carry higher risks. Hence, experience with such audits showcases a candidate's ability to handle noteworthy assignments.

How updated are you with the latest smart contract vulnerabilities and prevention strategies?

Technology evolves rapidly, and staying afloat requires one to keep an eye on the latest developments. Consequently, it's important to check if a candidate keeps abreast of the emerging threats and countermeasures.

Do you have experience in assessing tokenomics within smart contracts?

Tokenomics plays a pivotal role in the success of any project involving cryptocurrency. Therefore, experience in assessing these economic systems within smart contracts can be incredibly valuable.

Can you detail the methodology you use for smart contract auditing?

This question explores the candidate's approach to auditing, their understanding of auditing principles, and their ability to articulate their processes clearly.

How can you ensure the confidentiality of the smart contracts' business logic that you audit?

Confidentiality gives businesses a competitive edge. So, an ideal candidate should provide a satisfying response on how they intend to uphold it during audits.

Are you adept at using blockchain explorers and transaction tracing tools?

These tools increase an auditor's efficiency and accuracy. Knowledge and proficiency in using them speak to a candidate's investment in their craft.

How do you approach risk assessment for smart contracts?

The capacity to assess risks in smart contracts and inform strategic decisions is a skill every auditor should possess. Therefore, let the potential employee explain their approach.

Can you provide examples of the most common vulnerabilities you find during your audits?

This question will show you how familiar the candidate is with common vulnerabilities and their ability to identify and address them during audits.

Do you have experience with handling multisig wallet smart contracts?

Multi-signature wallets add an extra security layer to cryptocurrency transactions. Experience dealing with them is a great plus.

Can you discuss any ongoing education or training you undertake to stay updated in the field?

Ray Kroc once said, "As long as you're green, you're growing. As soon as you're ripe, you start to rot." Training and education are proof the applicant is still 'green' and growing in their field.

Are you comfortable with performing both manual and automated smart contract audits?

Palpable capacity for both manual and automated audits ensures a more comprehensive and secure analysis of smart contracts. Therefore, it's a desirable ability in a candidate.

Do you have expertise in gas optimization for smart contracts?

With Ethereum's gas prices soaring at times, an auditor who can optimize smart contracts to use less gas can save the company a significant amount of money.

Do you have experience in auditing upgradeable smart contracts?

Last but not least, if they have significant experience auditing smart contracts that can be upgraded, then they're likely to handle more complex scrutinies required for versioning in smart contracts.