How to Protect Your Crypto From Hacks

The promise of cryptocurrency comes with one big responsibility—keeping it safe. Because crypto transactions are irreversible and there’s no central authority to turn to if something goes wrong, security should be your top priority. Fortunately, with the right habits and tools, you can drastically reduce the risk of losing your funds to hackers.

Use Secure Wallets and Control Your Keys

Your first defense is choosing the right wallet. Hardware wallets, like Ledger and Trezor, keep your private keys offline, making them almost impossible to hack remotely. If you use software wallets, make sure they’re non-custodial so you have full control of your keys. Never store large amounts of crypto on exchange wallets—they’re prime targets for hackers.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

For any account linked to your crypto—especially exchange logins—enable 2FA. Use an authenticator app like Google Authenticator or Authy rather than SMS, as text messages can be intercepted. This adds an extra layer of protection even if someone gets your password.

Protect Your Seed Phrase

Your seed phrase is the master key to your crypto. Store it offline, written on paper or a metal backup, and keep it in a secure location. Never store it in plain text on your phone, computer, or cloud storage. And never share it with anyone—no legitimate service will ever ask for it.

Beware of Phishing and Scams

Hackers often target people, not systems. Watch out for fake websites, suspicious links, and impostor accounts on social media. Always double-check URLs before entering sensitive information and only download wallet apps from official sources. If something feels urgent or too good to be true, it’s probably a scam.

Keep Your Devices Secure

Make sure your phone and computer have updated software, strong passwords, and antivirus protection. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for crypto transactions—if you must, use a trusted VPN. Also, consider using a dedicated device just for managing your crypto, reducing the risk of malware infections from everyday browsing.

Diversify and Test Small First

Don’t keep all your crypto in one place. Spread your assets across multiple wallets or accounts to limit losses in case one is compromised. When using a new wallet or exchange, start with a small transaction to ensure everything works as expected before moving larger amounts.