Validator
Strict Definition
"A specialized node that participates in a blockchain's consensus mechanism by verifying transactions and adding them to the ledger, earning rewards for its service."
Liability Check // Risk Analysis
The 'Legal Liability' risk. As a validator, you are facilitating transactions. If your node inadvertently processes a sanctioned transaction (e.g., Tornado Cash), you may face regulatory scrutiny depending on the jurisdiction.
Knowledge Context // Related Terms
Auditor NotesVS-AN-2026
"Evaluate 'Staking-as-a-Service' to earn yield without the technical overhead of running a validator internally."
"If running a validator, use 'MEV-Boost' or similar tools to maximize your revenue while maintaining network neutrality."
"Identify if 'Validator Rewards' are treated as 'Service Fee' or 'Investment Income' for international tax treaty purposes."
SCHEMA_VER: AEO_3.2
LAST_AUDIT: 1/8/2026
HASH: XBJY8P