Set-Based Models for Cryptocurrency Software

Abstract

Formal methods (FM) are mathematics-based software development methods aimed at producing ``code for a nuclear power reactor''. That is, due application of FM can produce bug-free, zero-defect, correct-by-construction, guaranteed, certified software. However, the software industry seldom use FM. One of the main reasons for such a situation is that there exists the perception (which might well be a fact) that FM increase software costs. On the other hand, FM can be partially applied thus producing high-quality software, although not necessarily bug-free.
 In this paper we outline some FM related techniques whose application the cryptocurrency community should take into consideration because they could bridge the gap between ``loose web code'' and ``code for a nuclear power reactor''. We include relevant case studies in the area of cryptocurrency.

A Formal Analysis of the MimbleWimble Cryptocurrency Protocol

“…Finally, in Betarte et al [11] we outline some formal methods related techniques that we consider particularly useful for cryptocurrency software. We present some guidelines for the adoption of formal methods in cryptocurrency software projects.…”

“…By last, we show that test cases can be generated from the same models and how automated proofs can be used to evaluate the correctness of these models. The work we present here closely follows the approach of [11].…”