Paying Freelancers in Crypto — What Employers Need to Know (2025)

As Web3, DAOs, and crypto-native companies continue expanding globally in 2025, the nature of compensation has evolved far beyond fiat. Paying freelancers in crypto has become the norm for blockchain startups, decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs), and DeFi protocols hiring talent worldwide. However, while crypto is borderless, tax laws, labor regulations, and compliance requirements are not.

Whether you're sending a USDT payment to a designer in Argentina or distributing governance tokens to a contributor in India, understanding your legal and tax responsibilities is critical. Failure to do so can lead to IRS audits, SEC scrutiny, misclassification of workers, or even accusations of payroll fraud.

In this guide, we break down how to handle freelancer compensation via crypto in 2025 — including tax classification, KYC issues, 1099 reporting, token vesting, and more. If you manage payroll at a DAO, crypto startup, or NFT project, bookmark this article. It could save you time, penalties, and headaches down the line.

🧾 Visit the 2025 Crypto Tax & Compliance Hub

📌 Table of Contents

• Why Pay Freelancers in Crypto?
• Is Paying in Crypto Legal in 2025?
• KYC and AML Obligations
• Which Token You Use Matters
• Stablecoin vs Token Compensation
• Do You Still File a 1099?
• Payroll in DAOs
• Token Vesting & Lockups
• Is Tax Withholding Required?
• Paying Foreign Contractors
• Multi-chain Token Risk
• Payment Tracking & Valuation
• Audit-Proofing Crypto Payroll
• Crypto Payroll Platforms (2025)
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Frequently Asked Questions

Why Pay Freelancers in Crypto?

Startups, DAOs, and blockchain projects often operate remotely across multiple jurisdictions. Traditional banking systems are slow, expensive, and require KYC on both ends. Crypto allows instant, permissionless, and borderless payments — often with lower fees and greater transparency. Moreover, it aligns contributor incentives through tokens, especially in decentralized ecosystems.

Is Paying in Crypto Legal in 2025?

In most jurisdictions, yes — but with caveats. The IRS, HMRC, and other agencies recognize crypto as property or digital assets, not currency. Thus, payments are subject to tax rules similar to bartering or stock compensation. Companies must account for the market value at the time of payment and report accordingly.

KYC and AML Obligations

If you’re paying anonymous contributors, you may trigger anti-money laundering (AML) red flags. In 2025, many tax authorities require that companies verify the identity of paid contractors — especially for payments over $600 (U.S.) or €500 (EU). Use KYC tools or on-chain identity solutions to stay compliant.

Which Token You Use Matters

Paying in BTC or ETH may be treated differently from paying in governance tokens (e.g., DAO tokens) or reward tokens. Some tokens may be classified as securities under SEC or other regulatory bodies. Choose tokens with established liquidity, transparency, and legal clarity.

Stablecoin vs Token Compensation

Stablecoins (like USDT, USDC, DAI) offer less volatility and are often used for regular freelance work. On the other hand, native tokens may be used for performance bonuses or governance participation. In both cases, market value at the time of payment must be recorded for tax purposes.

📦 See Also: DeFi Airdrops & Staking Tax Rules 2025

Do You Still File a 1099?

Yes. In the U.S., if you're paying a U.S.-based freelancer more than $600 in crypto, you’re required to issue a Form 1099-NEC. You must value the crypto at FMV (fair market value) on the date of payment. For international freelancers, withholding and documentation depend on treaties and FATCA rules.

Payroll in DAOs

DAOs often use multi-sig wallets or smart contracts to pay contributors. Even though DAOs are decentralized, they must still comply with tax regulations in the jurisdictions of their core team, developers, or treasury. Some DAOs use wrappers like LLCs to manage payroll legally.

Token Vesting & Lockups

When tokens are granted with vesting schedules, they may not be taxed until vested — depending on local laws. However, if tokens are fully accessible and transferable, taxes may apply on grant. Section 83(b) elections, where allowed, can reduce long-term tax burdens if handled early.

Is Tax Withholding Required?

In many countries, yes. If you are paying employees (not contractors), crypto wages must include proper tax withholding and employer contributions. For freelancers, withholding may not be mandatory but documentation is critical. Some countries, like Germany or Japan, require backup withholding even for token payments.

Paying Foreign Contractors

Paying global talent is easier with crypto, but comes with tax risks. U.S. firms must collect Form W-8BEN from foreign freelancers to avoid backup withholding. Some jurisdictions may treat crypto compensation as taxable import/export payments, especially for services. Always document value and country of residence.

💸 Learn About: Crypto Remittances & Gift Taxes

Multi-chain Token Risk

Be careful when paying in tokens bridged to other chains. Tax rules may differ depending on origin chain vs receipt chain. For example, Polygon-wrapped tokens vs Ethereum-native tokens may have different liquidity and classification. Always track token contract origin and FMV at transfer time.

Payment Tracking & Valuation

Each crypto payment should be logged with:

• Date of payment
• Type of token
• Amount and market value (USD or local currency)
• Wallet address sent to

Use crypto accounting tools that integrate with your wallets or DAO treasury. Transparency helps during audits.

Audit-Proofing Crypto Payroll

To defend your crypto payments in a tax audit, maintain:

• Freelancer contracts or agreements
• Proof of work completed (GitHub, design files, etc.)
• Wallet receipts and transaction hashes
• Tax forms (1099, W-8BEN)

Consistency, documentation, and FMV valuation at payment time are your best protection.

Top Crypto Payroll Platforms in 2025

These services help manage freelancer and employee payments in crypto with compliance:

• Utopia Labs: DAO-native payroll and accounting
• Deel: Supports crypto payments with KYC
• Bitwage: Bitcoin/ETH salaries with fiat conversion
• Request Finance: Invoicing + on-chain payments

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not reporting crypto payments as expenses
• Failing to collect tax forms from freelancers
• Using high-volatility tokens as salaries
• Sending crypto without contracts or invoices
• Not checking token classification for legal risk

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is it legal to pay freelancers in crypto?

Yes, in most countries — but you must report it properly and use FMV at time of payment.

2. Do I issue a 1099 if I pay in ETH?

Yes. The IRS treats crypto like cash for reporting thresholds.

3. What if my contractor is anonymous?

You may still be responsible for reporting. Use KYC platforms or structured payments to mitigate risk.

4. Is token vesting taxable when granted or when vested?

Depends on jurisdiction. U.S. freelancers can file 83(b) elections in some cases.

5. Can I pay in DAO tokens?

Yes, but check legal classification. If classified as a security, different rules apply.

6. Do I need to do withholding for international freelancers?

Not always, but you may need W-8BEN forms to avoid backup withholding.

7. Which crypto is best for freelance payments?

USDC, USDT, or DAI are preferred for price stability and legal clarity.

8. What happens if I don’t report crypto compensation?

You risk audits, back taxes, and penalties from your local tax agency or the IRS.

🌐 Public Resources for Further Reading

• IRS: Virtual Currency FAQ
• FATF: Guidance for a Risk-Based Approach to Virtual Assets
• OECD: Crypto Asset Reporting Framework (CARF)

🔁 Back to 2025 Crypto Tax & Compliance Hub

Disclaimer

This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice. Cryptocurrency taxation laws vary by jurisdiction and are subject to frequent changes. Always consult a certified tax advisor or legal professional before making any business or compensation decisions involving crypto assets.

Tags: crypto payroll, paying freelancers crypto, crypto tax 2025, stablecoin salary, 1099 crypto, DAO compensation, token vesting taxes, USDC contractor, Web3 hiring, freelancer KYC

Crypto Remittances & Gift Taxes in 2025 — Family Transfers Made Simple

As cross-border crypto transfers continue to rise, many users are turning to digital assets like USDT and BTC for quick and low-fee family support. Whether you’re a migrant worker sending money home, a parent gifting crypto to a child, or a digital nomad managing your finances across continents, understanding the tax implications of crypto remittances and gift transfers is critical in 2025. Unfortunately, many overlook these transactions, thinking they’re too small or too personal to trigger tax concerns — a mistake that could prove costly.

This comprehensive guide walks you through how global tax regulators treat remittances and gifts involving cryptocurrencies. We’ll discuss gift tax thresholds, KYC compliance, recipient responsibilities, documentation best practices, and how to avoid unexpected liabilities. This is especially important for users in countries like the U.S., U.K., India, and the Philippines, where crypto gifts and remittances are increasingly scrutinized.

📌 Go to Main Crypto Tax & Compliance Hub

Understanding Crypto Remittances in 2025

Remittances using stablecoins have become the preferred method of transferring value across borders. Platforms like Binance Pay, Coinbase Wallet, and even WhatsApp-integrated wallets enable seamless sending and receiving of crypto. However, these transactions aren’t always tax-free. Depending on your jurisdiction, remittances may be classified as income, gifts, or even business transactions — each with unique reporting requirements.

Who Sends Crypto Remittances Today?

Migrant workers, gig workers, and expats make up a large portion of global crypto remittance traffic. Countries such as El Salvador, the Philippines, India, and Nigeria see high inbound traffic, while many senders reside in the U.S., Europe, and Canada. The relative privacy and low fees of crypto remittances make them attractive — but not invisible to regulators.

What Triggers a Taxable Event?

Simply sending crypto isn’t always a taxable event, but in many countries, it can be. In the U.S., sending crypto as a gift is non-taxable for the sender unless the amount exceeds the annual exclusion ($18,000 in 2025). However, the receiver may incur income tax if the transfer is deemed compensation or revenue. Documentation and intent matter.

Global Gift Tax Thresholds and Crypto

Each country has different gift tax rules:

• United States: Annual gift exclusion of $18,000 per recipient. Over that, Form 709 must be filed.
• UK: £3,000 annual exemption; anything above may trigger inheritance tax upon death.
• India: Crypto gifts above ₹50,000 (approx. $600) are taxable as income.
• Philippines: 6% donor’s tax applies beyond ₱250,000 yearly exemption.

Tracking Crypto Gifts for Tax Reporting

Always document:

• Date of transfer
• Wallet addresses (sender and recipient)
• Market value in fiat at time of transfer
• Purpose (gift, support, loan, etc.)

Tools like Koinly, CoinTracker, and Accointing can help track these details automatically.

📘 Read: Crypto Tax Essentials 2025 — What You Must Track

Crypto Gift vs Crypto Payment — Know the Difference

Mislabeling a crypto payment as a gift is a red flag. If you're sending crypto to someone who performs services (even informally), it’s a payment — and both parties may have tax responsibilities. Label transfers accurately and maintain consistent documentation.

Receiving Crypto from Family Abroad

Receiving a crypto gift from family overseas is common, but may require declaration under certain thresholds. In the U.S., foreign gifts exceeding $100,000 must be reported via Form 3520. Other countries, like Australia, require disclosure under AML/KYC rules even if the gift is non-taxable.

How to Minimize Tax on Crypto Gifts

Tips to reduce gift-related taxes:

• Split large gifts across multiple years
• Use personal exemptions effectively
• Gift stablecoins to minimize volatility-based tax issues
• Document recipient’s relationship clearly

Crypto Remittances and AML Rules

Crypto remittances over $1,000 are typically flagged under AML laws. Wallet addresses may be linked via Chainalysis or similar tools. Senders and recipients should use KYC-compliant platforms and keep screenshots of transactions for future audits.

Regulatory Differences Between Countries

While the U.S. may focus on gift tax, the EU tends to enforce VAT-related rules on digital transfers. Singapore and Switzerland offer tax-friendly environments, whereas countries like India and Brazil enforce stricter rules. Understanding local policy is key.

Wallet-to-Wallet Transfers — Are They Traceable?

Yes. While not always transparent to the public, tax authorities use blockchain analytics tools to trace peer-to-peer transfers. Unreported crypto gifts can lead to backdated fines and audits. Don't assume P2P equals invisibility.

📌 Back to 2025 Crypto Tax Compliance Hub

Family Gifting Strategies in Bear Markets

Bear markets offer gifting opportunities at lower valuation, thus reducing tax exposure. Sending crypto at depressed prices also helps recipients defer gains until sale. Use market dips strategically for long-term wealth transfers.

Crypto Remittance via Smart Contracts

Innovative tools allow you to send time-locked or conditional gifts using smart contracts (e.g., Gnosis Safe, Sablier). These are still taxable but offer additional control over when and how recipients access funds.

Common Mistakes in Crypto Gifting

• Sending large amounts without documentation
• Misclassifying gifts as loans
• Failing to report foreign transfers
• Using custodial wallets for private transfers

Using Stablecoins for Tax-Efficient Transfers

Stablecoins like USDT and USDC are less volatile and easier to track. Their consistent value reduces calculation errors during tax reporting. However, they're not exempt from KYC/AML scrutiny.

Gift Splitting for Couples

Married couples in countries like the U.S. can double their gift tax exemption by each giving the annual maximum. This allows more tax-efficient wealth transfer without hitting thresholds.

Educational and Medical Crypto Gifts

In some countries, crypto gifts made directly for education or medical expenses may be tax-free. Always pay providers directly and document purpose clearly.

Legal Consequences of Non-Compliance

Fines, back taxes, and even criminal penalties may apply if crypto gifts or remittances are unreported. Always consult a crypto-aware tax advisor.

Crypto Gifts to Minors

Gifting to minors often involves custodial wallets or trusts. These require proper legal frameworks, and some jurisdictions impose trust reporting rules.

Helpful Public Resources

• IRS – Foreign Gifts Reporting
• FATF – Crypto & AML Guidelines
• OECD – Crypto Asset Tax Transparency

Disclaimer

This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Tax laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Please consult a licensed tax professional in your country for personalized guidance.

Tags: crypto remittance 2025, gift tax crypto, crypto tax family transfer, usdt remittance tax, crypto to family overseas, gift tax limits 2025, crypto compliance, stablecoin remittance rules, blockchain gifting guide, digital asset family support

Staking, Airdrops & DeFi Rewards — How to Handle Taxes in 2025 | Crypto Tax Guide

 

Staking, Airdrops & DeFi Rewards — How to Handle Taxes in 2025

Staking income, airdrops, yield farming, and DeFi reporting explained · Updated: 2025-09-09

Part of the 2025 Crypto Tax & Compliance Hub

Report staking, airdrops, and DeFi yields accurately to avoid surprises in 2025.

Quick Start: If you’re short on time, jump into these:

• 🧭 Overview → Crypto Tax Essentials 2025 — What You Must Track
• 🧾 Tools → Crypto Tax Software 2025 — Top Tools & Features
• 🌍 Rules → Global Crypto Tax Snapshot 2025
• 🎨 NFTs → NFTs & Digital Collectibles — Tax Rules in 2025 coming soon

Table of Contents

1. Why It Matters in 2025
2. Staking Rewards
3. Airdrops & Forks
4. DeFi Rewards: Yield, Liquidity, Lending
5. Records & Valuations You Need
6. Automation & Reporting Workflow
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
8. Jurisdiction Snapshot
9. Legal, Safe Optimization
10. FAQs

Why It Matters in 2025

Tax authorities increasingly treat crypto income at receipt as taxable, including staking rewards, liquidity mining incentives, and airdrops. Reporting only at disposal leads to mismatches, penalties, or amended returns. Your goal: recognize income when received (using fair market value), then track a separate capital gain/loss when you later dispose of the asset.

For the big picture of taxable events, see our Crypto Tax Essentials 2025.

1) Staking Rewards

• Tax timing: Generally taxed as ordinary income when you gain control of the reward. Measure FMV (price) at that timestamp.
• Later sale: Disposal triggers capital gain/loss using the income FMV as your cost basis.
• Fees: Validator commissions and gas fees may adjust basis/proceeds (jurisdiction dependent).
• Compounding: Auto-compounders can create frequent income events → automate valuation capture.

Cross-check your approach with local rules and your tax software’s staking classification options.

2) Airdrops & Forks

• Airdrops: Often taxable at receipt once tokens are credited and you have dominion/control.
• Forks: New chain assets are typically income at the time of dominion; later disposal is capital gain/loss.
• Low-value spam: Many wallets receive unsolicited tokens. Document control/valuation and consult guidance to avoid over-reporting noise.

Track token contract addresses and snapshot the price source used for FMV.

3) DeFi Rewards: Yield, Liquidity, Lending

• Yield farming / Liquidity mining: Rewards are generally income at receipt.
• Lending/borrowing: Interest is income; liquidations can produce disposals.
• Bridging/wrapping: May be treated as dispositions in some contexts; keep both chain tx hashes.
• Rebase/auto-stake tokens: Create frequent micro-events; rely on software to aggregate.

Deep dive here: DeFi Tax Reporting 2025 — Staking, Swaps & Yield

Records & Valuations You Need

Data Point	Why It Matters	Pro Tip
Reward timestamp & FMV	Establishes income amount and basis	Automate daily price capture; log source (exchange ticker)
Wallet/contract addresses	Proves dominion/control and asset identity	Save tx hash and chain explorer links
Fees (gas, validator)	Basis/proceeds adjustments where permitted	Label fees consistently in your software
Disposal details	Calculates capital gain/loss later	Keep FX rates if filing in local currency

Automation & Reporting Workflow

1. Connect: Read-only API keys for exchanges; add all wallet addresses by chain.
2. Ingest: Import tx history; tag rewards, airdrops, internal transfers.
3. Value: Capture FMV at receipt; standardize pricing sources.
4. Reconcile: Resolve missing fees/prices, duplicates, and bridge events.
5. Report: Generate income schedules + capital gains on later disposals.
6. Archive: CSV/PDF exports, tx hashes, pricing logs → secure storage.

🧾 Compare Top 2025 Crypto Tax Software

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Recognizing staking income only at sale instead of at receipt.
2. Ignoring “small” airdrops (still income in many regions).
3. Misclassifying yield farming rewards as capital gains.
4. Missing validator/gas fees in basis adjustments.
5. Not tracking rebase/auto-compounding events → under-reporting income.

For a broader checklist of taxable events, see Crypto Tax Essentials 2025.

Jurisdiction Snapshot

• US: Rewards commonly income at receipt; 1099-series reporting expanding; separate CGT upon disposal.
• EU: MiCA alignment clarifies airdrops/DeFi incentives, but member-state tax specifics vary.
• Asia: India: strict TDS and reporting; Singapore/HK: innovation-friendly yet transparent reporting expectations.
• Canada/Australia: CGT frameworks apply; staking/airdrop income recognition emphasized.

🌍 Read Global Crypto Regulation Insights

Legal, Safe Optimization

• Lot selection: Use Specific ID where allowed to optimize outcomes on disposal.
• Fee policy: Capitalize or deduct fees as permitted; document your approach.
• Harvesting: Realize losses to offset gains; watch local wash-sale analogs.
• Entity planning: Consider trusts/LLCs for custody and governance.
• Documentation: Maintain an evidence pack ready for audits.

🔙 Back to 2025 Crypto Tax & Compliance Hub

FAQs

Are staking rewards taxable if I never sell?

In many jurisdictions, yes — income at receipt using FMV, then CGT on later disposal.

Do I owe tax on airdrops I didn’t claim?

It depends on dominion/control. If tokens are credited and you can access them, income may arise.

Are yield farming rewards capital gains?

Generally no; they’re income at receipt. Disposal later creates capital gains/losses.

How do I value micro/auto-compounded rewards?

Use automated pricing capture and aggregate daily; keep your pricing source logs.

Disclaimer: Educational only; not tax, legal, or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals.

Explore more: Essentials · NFTs 2025 coming soon · Global Snapshot

Staking Tax Airdrop Tax DeFi Income Yield Farming Crypto Tax 2025

2025 Crypto Tax & Compliance Hub — Smart Strategies, Legal Updates, and Secure Investing

Your 2025 guide to crypto tax reporting, DeFi rules, NFTs, and global compliance · Updated: 2025-09-15

🚀 Start Here — Your 2025 Crypto Tax Toolkit

🧭 Essentials 2025 🔗 Staking & DeFi 2025 🎨 NFT Tax 2025 🌍 Global Snapshot 🧾 Software 2025 🛡️ Asset Protection

Track every taxable event → document evidence → file confidently.

Quick Start: Go straight to the core guides:

• 🧭 Crypto Tax Essentials 2025 — What You Must Track
• 🔗 Staking, Airdrops & DeFi Rewards — How to Handle Taxes in 2025
• 🎨 NFTs & Digital Collectibles — Tax Rules in 2025
• 🌍 Global Crypto Tax Snapshot 2025 — US, EU, Asia, and Beyond
• 🧾 Crypto Tax Software 2025 — Top Tools & Features
• 🛡️ Crypto Asset Protection 2025 — Secure Custody & Legal Wrappers

🧭 Essentials 🔗 Staking/DeFi 🎨 NFT Tax 🌍 Global 🧾 Software 🛡️ Protection

Table of Contents

1. Why This Hub Matters in 2025
2. Essentials: Taxable Events & Records
3. DeFi, Staking & Airdrops
4. NFTs & Digital Collectibles
5. Global Rules: US, EU, Asia
6. New in 2025: Freelancers, Mining, Remittances
7. Quick FAQs

Why This Hub Matters in 2025

Crypto taxation tightened across jurisdictions in 2025. Standardized reporting (e.g., broker forms), MiCA-driven regulation in the EU, and stricter monitoring in Asia mean investors must track taxable events, keep robust evidence, and follow a reliable reporting workflow.

Use this hub as your map: jump into the Essentials, then deep-dive into DeFi income, NFT rules, and region-specific updates.

Essentials — What You Must Track

• Trades/swaps, income at receipt (staking/airdrops), NFT sales/royalties
• Cost basis, timestamps, tx hashes, pricing source logs
• Reconciliation & audit evidence pack

Start here: Crypto Tax Essentials 2025

Automation & Software

• API imports (CEX), on-chain address tracking
• Rule-based labeling for staking/airdrops/transfers
• Basis method (FIFO/LIFO/Specific ID), report exports

Compare tools: Crypto Tax Software 2025

DeFi, Staking & Airdrops

• Income at receipt using FMV; separate CGT on disposal
• Auto-compounding, rebase, bridge/wrap considerations
• Validator and gas fee treatment

Guide: Staking, Airdrops & DeFi Rewards 2025

Common Pitfalls

• Reporting income only at sale, not at receipt
• Mislabeled internal transfers; missing fee allocations
• Ignored micro rewards & missing timestamps

Checklist: Essentials 2025

NFTs & Digital Collectibles

• Mint cost in basis; sales trigger CGT
• Royalties = ordinary income for creators
• Gaming NFTs taxable when monetized

Guide: NFT Tax Rules 2025

Documentation

• Mint/sale/royalty logs with tx hashes
• Pricing source at receipt & disposal
• Separate creator vs trader wallets

See pitfalls: NFTs 2025

Global Snapshot — US/EU/Asia

• US: Expanded broker reporting; staking income at receipt
• EU: MiCA-aligned regulation; member-state tax specifics
• Asia: India TDS strict; Singapore/HK emphasize reporting

Read more: Global Crypto Tax Snapshot 2025

Trends in 2025

• OECD-style cross-border data sharing
• Stablecoin/wrapped token scrutiny
• Institutional custody with insurance/legal wrappers

Protect assets: Asset Protection 2025

🧭 Essentials 🔗 Staking/DeFi 🎨 NFTs 🌍 Global 🧾 Software 🛡️ Protection

New in 2025 — Practical Situations

💼 Paying Freelancers in Crypto

What employers must know: documentation, valuation (FMV), and reporting forms.

Read: Paying Freelancers in Crypto — 2025

⛏ Crypto Mining in Low-Energy Regions

Income vs. capital, depreciation, energy incentives, and local compliance tips.

Read: Mining Tax — 2025 Compliance Tips

💸 Remittances & Gift Taxes

Family transfers, thresholds, documentation, and cross-border considerations.

Read: Remittances & Gift Taxes — 2025

💼 Freelancers ⛏ Mining 💸 Remittances

🧾 Compare Top 2025 Crypto Tax Software

Quick FAQs

Are token-to-token swaps taxable?

Often yes. Many jurisdictions treat swaps as disposals of the outgoing asset.

When are staking rewards taxed?

Commonly at receipt, using fair market value. Disposal later creates separate CGT.

Do NFTs follow different rules?

Mint costs adjust basis; sales trigger CGT; royalties are typically ordinary income.

Disclaimer: Educational only; not tax, legal, or financial advice.

Crypto Tax 2025 DeFi Tax NFT Tax Global Regulations Asset Protection Tax Software Mining Tax Freelancers Remittances

🏠 Hub 🧭 Essentials 🔗 Staking 🎨 NFTs 🌍 Global 🧾 Software 🛡️ Protection