The DACS aims to contribute to a high level of assurance for digital asset owners, without hindering the business of a custody provider, nor the usability of a system. There are aspects of digital asset custody that differ from the operational and security aspects associated with the custody of traditional financial assets. These differences present a number of challenges, the most notable being how to generate, operate and secure the private keys associated with digital assets throughout the lifecycle of the custody service.

The DACS establishes a baseline that both customers and auditors can rely on when assessing a custody solution or provider.

Initially published in October 2020, the DACS is regularly updated to reflect new developments.

The DACS was developed by a working group of CMTA's Technical Committee and reviewed by CMTA members through a consultation process.