AI in Smart Contract Development: Why Experts Say It Will Make Crypto Safer
Despite warnings about AI-generated insecure code, crypto developers argue that AI-assisted programming will enhance security in Web3.
A November 2024 report by the Center for Security and Emerging Technology claimed that AI-generated code could create a cybersecurity feedback loop, with nearly 50% of AI-produced code snippets containing bugs. Similarly, a July 2024 study found that top AI models had a median secure-code pass rate under 35%.
Yet, smart contract developers and auditors told Cointelegraph that AI tools, when used responsibly, will lead to better-quality code and a safer crypto ecosystem.
AI Is a Tool, Not a Replacement for Developers
Experts stress that AI assists programmers but does not replace them:
| Expert | Key Insight |
|---|---|
| 0xAw (Alien Base DEX lead dev) | Uses AI for “quick reference checks” and “cookie-cutter” code but still relies on manual testing. |
| Anton Holovchenko (Hacken) | Uses AI tools like Cursor for auto-completion and templating, but warns against “vibe coding” — letting AI work with little human oversight. |
| Mike Tiutin (AMLBot) | Says AI use is “quite high,” but security depends on competent human programmers reviewing the code. |
Holovchenko emphasized:
“AI can increase the code quality but only in pair with a human who understands coding.”
🔹 Widespread AI Use Among Developers
- Almost every smart contract developer uses AI tools such as ChatGPT and Cursor for assistance.
- Senior developers benefit the most, using AI to speed up repetitive tasks.
- Junior devs risk overreliance, which may hinder skill growth and lead to poorly secured smart contracts.
Read More: 5 Best AI Stocks to Buy Now and Hold for Long-Term Growth
🔹 Why AI Could Strengthen Web3 Security
✅ Fewer careless mistakes: Tiutin predicts “more protocols with stronger baseline security.”
✅ Better audits: AI could optimize smart contract auditing, making bug detection faster (though auditing costs remain tied to reputation, not automation).
✅ Extensive testing culture: Smart contract development already requires rigorous testing, meaning AI-generated bugs are likely caught before deployment.
However, overconfidence remains a risk. As 0xAw noted:
“Junior devs using AI and thinking it can do everything for them often have bad results.”
📈 The Bigger Picture: AI’s Role in Crypto Security
While early academic reports warned of AI-induced vulnerabilities, experienced developers believe human-AI collaboration will raise security standards in crypto.
If used as an assistant rather than a replacement, AI could reduce coding errors, improve audit efficiency, and lead to safer Web3 protocols.
Will AI-assisted programming truly make crypto safer, or are the risks being underestimated? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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