Security Guide

As crypto adoption grows, cybercriminals become more active β€” using phishing, malware, and impersonation to steal your assets.

To secure your crypto, you must consider multiple attack vectors and implement strong practices across three layers of security:

πŸ” Three layers of security

🧱 1. Network Layer

  • Are your private keys cryptographically secure?

  • Is the blockchain safe from attacks (e.g. 51%)?


🧩 2. Application Layer

  • Do you use trusted apps or exchanges?

  • How are your funds stored?

  • Is your account login secured with strong passwords and 2FA?


🌐 3. Real-World Layer

  • Are your devices encrypted and secure?

  • Is your 2FA setup safe?

  • Have you set up inheritance or recovery instructions in case of death?

Your #1 job as a crypto holder: Protect your funds. Self-custody and cold storage are key.


🚨 Common Mistakes That Lead to Loss

  • Reusing weak passwords

  • Skipping 2FA

  • Sharing or exposing private keys

  • Saving keys or passwords online


πŸ“§ Email Security for Crypto

πŸ”‘ Why Email Is Important

Your email is the gateway to all your crypto accounts. It must be locked down.

βœ… Best Practices:

  • Use trusted providers: Gmail, Outlook, Protonmail

  • Always enable 2FA on your email

  • Create a separate crypto-only email

  • Be wary of phishing emails that try to scare or trick you

⚑ Quick Tips:

  • Never trust email links

  • Double-check the domain of login pages

  • Use anti-phishing banners if your exchange offers one

  • Visit haveibeenpwned.com to check for data breaches


πŸ” Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

πŸ“² What You Need to Know:

  • Enable 2FA everywhere (email, exchange, wallet, social media)

  • Use authentication apps, NOT SMS (SMS is vulnerable to SIM swaps)

πŸ›‘οΈ Backup Codes:

  • Store them offline and securely - like your recovery phrase

  • NEVER screenshot QR codes or save them online


πŸ’Ό Crypto Wallet Safety

βœ… Best Practices:

  • Don’t store large amounts on exchanges

  • Use hardware wallets (cold wallets) for long-term storage

  • Verify all details on your wallet screen before confirming

  • Be cautious of malware that swaps addresses β€” double check recipient address


πŸ”‘ Private Keys: The Most Important Thing

  • Write down your keys on paper or metal backups (fire/waterproof)

  • NEVER save private keys:

    • Online

    • In your phone

    • On cloud services

  • Don’t share keys with anyone

  • Beware of giveaway scams asking for keys


🧠 Final Thoughts

Hacks are rare β€” most losses are due to user error, phishing, or negligence.

Remember:

  • Cold wallets are unhackable unless you give away your private keys

  • Security is not a chore β€” it's your opportunity to have peace of mind


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