How to reference MACS

Guidance on using and citing the standard

This page describes how to reference the Minimum Acceptable Crypto Standard (MACS) correctly. It is intended for organisations, advisers, auditors and control functions that use MACS as a reference framework or make statements about MACS conformity. Consistent referencing is a prerequisite for statements to be traceable, auditable and comparable.

Referencing principles

• Always specify the exact version of the standard.
• State clearly which part of the standard the reference relates to.
• Do not present internal policies, derivatives or interpretations as MACS itself.

MACS conformity exists only where a reference is made to a binding, published version of the standard.

Referencing in internal policies

Minimum wording (reference statement)

The handling of cryptographically secured digital assets is conducted in accordance with the Minimum Acceptable Crypto Standard (MACS) – Core v1.0.

Optional clarification (non-normative)

The organisation aligns its governance, responsibilities and documentation with MACS Core v1.0.

This clarification does not change the meaning of the minimum wording. It narrows the intended scope of application.

Referencing in reporting and disclosures

Reference basis

A governance framework for handling cryptographically secured digital assets has been implemented with reference to Minimum Acceptable Crypto Standard (MACS) – Core v1.0.

Conformity statement

The governance arrangements for handling cryptographically secured digital assets conform to Minimum Acceptable Crypto Standard (MACS) – Core v1.0.

“Reference basis” and “Conformity statement” are alternatives. A conformity statement requires full fulfilment of the MACS Core requirements.

Referencing in audit and control contexts

Reference basis

Minimum Acceptable Crypto Standard (MACS) – Core v1.0 was used as the reference framework for assessing governance arrangements for cryptographically secured digital assets.

Assessment statement

The assessment of minimum requirements was performed on the basis of Minimum Acceptable Crypto Standard (MACS) – Core v1.0.

Boundary conditions

The following do not constitute MACS conformity:

• paraphrasing or partial reuse of text passages,
• internal policies that build on MACS but deviate from it,
• interpretations or extensions without explicit versioning.

Derived frameworks or adaptations may be reasonable for internal purposes, but must not be labelled as MACS itself.

Versioning note

Each reference to MACS should specify:

• the version,
• the version status,
• the authoritative reference location of publication.