# KPMG Blockchain Technology Risk Assessment

> KPMG has developed a specialized assessment solution that helps companies understand and evaluate the complex security and technology risks associated with blockchain implementations. The solution analyzes ten key risk categories such as consensus mechanism, cryptography, key management, and governance using a standardized five-level maturity scale. Based on this assessment, companies receive concrete recommendations for developing effective controls and addressing identified vulnerabilities.

**Sector:** Tertiary sector · **Industry:** Auditing and tax consulting · **Organisation:** KPMG · **Maturity level:** Production

Canonical URL: https://www.sapientblock.com/en/use-cases/kpmg-blockchain-risiken-systematisch-bewerten

## Documentation status

- **Project status:** Production
- **Evidence:** Evidence medium
- **Editorial review:** Ufuk Avci, 15 April 2026

## Description

KPMG, as one of the Big Four audit firms, has developed a structured framework for assessing Blockchain risks. With the increasing use of Blockchain in companies, a new audit field is emerging: auditors must be able to assess Blockchain-based systems and assets.

Blockchain risks differ fundamentally from classic IT risks: (1) Smart contract risks: code errors in immutable smart contracts cannot simply be patched — the 2016 DAO hack lost 60 million USD due to a smart contract bug. (2) Private key risks: loss of the private key means loss of all Blockchain-secured assets — no password reset possible. (3) Governance risks: decentralised systems have no central control — who decides in disputes? (4) Regulatory risks: MiCA (EU), GDPR, AML/KYC requirements. KPMG Blockchain Risk Assessment systematically addresses all these dimensions and provides companies with a structured basis for audit, compliance and strategic decision-making. KPMG Australia had OriginsNext as a Blockchain product spin-off — evidence of deep internal Blockchain expertise. The Big Four (KPMG, Deloitte, EY, PwC) have all built dedicated Blockchain practices.

## Benefits

- The structured risk assessment reduces uncertainty in Blockchain investments and enables informed business decisions.
- Companies receive a standardised and quantifiable method for assessing Blockchain implementations.
- The systematic analysis of ten key risk categories ensures comprehensive risk assessment.
- Concrete recommendations for action enable targeted improvement of control mechanisms.
- Risk managers receive a professional tool that systematically and clearly assesses complex Blockchain risks.

## Challenges

- Companies must be prepared to disclose sensitive technical and operational information for the assessment.
- The assessment requires comprehensive technical knowledge and detailed information about the Blockchain implementation.
- The complexity of Blockchain technology makes a complete risk assessment resource-intensive.
- Employees need training to correctly interpret and implement the assessment results.

## Technology foundation

The solution uses proven risk management frameworks and digital assessment tools for the systematic analysis of blockchain implementations. It is technology-independent and can evaluate various types of blockchains such as public, private, or hybrid blockchains.

## Sources

- [KPMG Blockchain Technology Risk Assessment](https://kpmg.com/xx/en.html)