Programmable Digital RMB: Consumer Protection Path for Prepaid Transactions

Due to its digital, stable, and programmable characteristics, the digital RMB has developed into a form of "programmable digital RMB". Embedding payment conditions into smart contracts that govern its use can help protect vulnerable consumers in the prepayment industry, prevent risks arising from merchants' misappropriation of prepayments, and promote the industry's healthy development. Where the control conditions of such smart contracts are explicitly stipulated, the ownership of digital RMB should be determined according to those agreements; otherwise, the control condition is to be regarded as the effective requirement for transferring ownership. Before this condition is satisfied, the digital RMB remains the property of consumers. In the event of a merchant's bankruptcy, and from the perspective of consumer protection, refunds governed by smart contracts should not be subject to claims by the bankruptcy administrator. This analysis highlights the potential of programmable digital RMB to strengthen consumer protection mechanisms and enhance the legal framework of the prepayment industry.