HardwareWallets

At Serenity, we don’t just build — we sizzle. Each week, we cook up something bold, secure, and packed with flavor. But before we fire up the skillet for what’s coming next, here’s a taste of what was served last week:
🏙️ Real Estate on the Blockchain — Dubai Edition
We turned up the heat in property innovation by partnering with #RWA MTA Real Estate. The goal? To tokenize premium Dubai properties and offer secure, fractional ownership. Affordable, transparent, and blockchain-powered — this dish is made for the future.
📖 #Serenity Featured in CEO Clubs Magazine
We’re honored to be spotlighted in the May 2025 edition of CEO Clubs Magazine. The feature dives into how our sAxess App is redefining financial empowerment — from self-custody and biometrics to seamless crypto access. Real-world utility, served hot.
🔐 Stay Safe with #defi : 3 Key Ingredients
We shared our top tips to spice up your security game:
• Go self-custody with #HardwareWallets like sAxess
• Avoid phishing by checking every link twice
• Add biometrics or 2FA for an extra layer of defense
Because in #defi , protection is always on the menu.
🚗 Serenity x Mansory — Something’s Cooking
Luxury is entering the kitchen. Serenity is now in talks with the legendary Mansory brand. Details are still simmering, but trust us — this fusion of digital security and high-end design is going to be one for the books.
So if last week was this hot, imagine what’s frying for next week. Stay tuned

In a shocking turn of events, David Balland @Morveus , a co-founder of the French cryptocurrency firm Ledger, was kidnapped alongside his wife in central France. The incident, which unfolded on January 21, has raised concerns about the security risks faced by individuals associated with the rapidly growing crypto industry. Here's a detailed look at the events and their implications.
Key Highlights:
David Balland and Wife Abducted: The couple was kidnapped from their home and held captive at separate locations.Ransom Paid in Cryptocurrency: A portion of the ransom demanded by the kidnappers was paid in crypto, most of which was later traced and seized.Swift Police Action: Over 90 officers, including elite tactical units, were involved in the rescue operation.
Timeline of Events
The Kidnapping
On January 21, 2025, David Balland and his wife were forcibly taken from their home in central France. The kidnappers transported them to two separate locations, holding them captive. During the ordeal, the abductors demanded a ransom in cryptocurrency, leveraging the anonymity of digital assets to cover their tracks.
The Rescue
A high-stakes rescue operation commenced on January 22, involving more than 90 officers from France's GIGN tactical police unit. Mr. Balland was freed that day, while his wife was discovered uninjured in a vehicle on January 23. The swift response underscores the efficiency of French law enforcement in handling high-risk situations.
Injury and Aftermath
While Mr. Balland sustained injuries to one of his hands and required medical attention, his wife emerged physically unharmed. The psychological toll, however, remains immeasurable.
The Role of Cryptocurrency in the Incident
Cryptocurrency played a central role in the kidnapping, with the abductors demanding a ransom in digital assets. According to the Paris prosecutor, a portion of the ransom was paid, but most of it was successfully traced, frozen, and seized by authorities. This case highlights both the strengths and vulnerabilities of cryptocurrency, particularly its traceability and misuse in illicit activities.
CZ Binance Raises Concerns
The incident caught the attention of prominent figures in the cryptocurrency community, including Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao (CZ). CZ expressed his concern on social media, emphasizing the need for heightened security measures for individuals in the crypto space. His comments reflect the growing awareness within the industry about the physical risks faced by crypto entrepreneurs and investors.

In response to the incident, @cz_binance tweeted: "Thank God they are safe now. It must have been a horrible experience. Stay SAFU!" This message resonates with the crypto community’s ongoing efforts to ensure safety and security for its members.
The Risks of Flexing Crypto Gains
This incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers associated with flaunting wealth, particularly in the volatile world of cryptocurrency. As the saying goes, "There are many psychos in this world." High-profile individuals should exercise caution and avoid publicizing their financial gains, as it can attract unwanted attention from malicious actors.
Who is David Balland?
David Balland co-founded Ledger in 2014, a pioneering company in the crypto space specializing in hardware wallets for secure storage of digital assets. However, Ledger clarified that Balland has not been associated with the company since 2021. Ledger’s current CEO, Pascal Gauthier, expressed relief over Balland’s rescue and reiterated the company’s commitment to safeguarding user assets and privacy.
Legal Implications
As of January 23, ten suspects, many of whom were already known to law enforcement, are being interrogated. If convicted, they face life imprisonment under French law. This serves as a stern warning to criminal elements targeting the crypto sector.
Lessons for the Crypto Community
This chilling incident underscores the need for heightened security measures for individuals and companies in the cryptocurrency space. Key takeaways include:
Physical Security: High-profile individuals in the crypto industry must prioritize personal and residential security.Crypto Ransom Risks: While cryptocurrency offers traceability, its misuse in criminal activities requires robust law enforcement capabilities.Community Vigilance: Awareness and education are essential to mitigate risks in this evolving landscape.
Conclusion
The kidnapping of David Balland and his wife serves as a stark reminder of the unique risks faced by those in the cryptocurrency industry. While the swift action of French authorities ensured a successful rescue, the event highlights the growing need for security measures in a rapidly digitizing world. As the crypto community reflects on this harrowing ordeal, the focus must remain on safeguarding both digital and physical assets.
Stay informed about the latest developments in cryptocurrency and security by subscribing to our newsletter. Share your thoughts on this incident in the comments below, and let us know how the crypto industry can enhance safety measures.
#DavidBalland #HardwareWallets #Bitcoin #ledger #cryptopatel $BTC $ETH $SOL

In the world of cryptocurrency, security is paramount. While many focus on hot wallets for convenience, cold wallets are often regarded as the safest option for long-term storage. But what exactly is a cold wallet, and how can you make sure it’s secured properly?
What is a Cold Wallet?
A cold wallet (or cold storage) is a type of cryptocurrency wallet that stores your private keys offline, away from the internet. Unlike hot wallets, which are connected to the internet and more vulnerable to hacking, cold wallets are completely isolated from online threats, making them the go-to choice for long-term storage of digital assets.
Types of Cold Wallets:
Hardware Wallets:
These are physical devices (like USB drives) that store your private keys offline. Examples include Ledger Nano X, Trezor Model T, and KeepKey. They are considered one of the most secure methods of storing cryptocurrency because they are immune to online attacks.Paper Wallets:
A paper wallet is simply a physical printout of your public and private keys. While it’s a low-cost option, it requires careful handling to avoid physical damage, theft, or loss. A paper wallet typically comes in the form of a QR code that can be scanned to access your crypto.Air-gapped Computers:
These are offline computers that store your private keys and never connect to the internet. They can be highly secure but require technical know-how to set up and maintain.
How to Secure Your Cold Wallet:
While cold wallets are naturally more secure than hot wallets, they still require proper protection to avoid loss or theft. Here are some best practices:
1. Use Strong Backups:
Always create multiple backups of your wallet’s private key or recovery phrase. Store them in different physical locations (e.g., safety deposit boxes, trusted family members) to ensure access in case of theft, fire, or damage.Never store backups digitally in online locations like cloud storage or emails.
2. Physical Security:
For hardware wallets, ensure that your device is kept in a secure location, such as a safe or a lockbox. Remember, physical access equals control.For paper wallets, consider using fireproof and waterproof storage to prevent physical damage.
3. Use a Passphrase (if applicable):
Many cold wallets (especially hardware wallets) allow you to set up a passphrase or PIN for added protection. This acts as an extra layer of security, ensuring that even if someone gains physical access to your wallet, they cannot easily access your funds.
4. Avoid Sharing Recovery Phrases:
Your recovery phrase (often 12–24 words) is the key to recovering your funds. Never share it with anyone, even if they claim to be tech support or from a legitimate crypto exchange. If someone else gets your recovery phrase, they control your crypto.
5. Encrypt Your Backup Files:
If you store backups of your wallet on a USB drive or any external media, consider encrypting the backup. This adds a layer of protection in case the backup is lost or stolen. Use strong encryption algorithms (e.g., AES-256) to secure the backup.
6. Regularly Check and Test Access:
Periodically check your cold wallet backups to ensure they’re in good condition. This includes verifying your paper wallets (ensure QR codes or keys are legible) and testing your hardware wallet for compatibility with the latest software updates.
7. Use Multi-Signature Wallets (Optional):
For extra security, consider using a multi-signature wallet, which requires multiple private keys to authorize a transaction. This means even if one key is compromised, the attacker cannot access your funds without the others.
8. Stay Aware of Phishing and Scams:
Ensure you’re always downloading wallet firmware or software updates from the official website. Phishing attacks are prevalent, and fake wallet updates may contain malware designed to steal your private keys.
Why Cold Wallets are Essential for Long-Term Security
If you’re holding cryptocurrency for the long term, cold wallets are your best bet. While they may not be as convenient as hot wallets for frequent transactions, they provide peace of mind knowing your funds are protected from online hacking, phishing, and other cyber threats.
The Bottom Line:
In the crypto world, “Not your keys, not your coins.” Cold wallets give you full control over your assets, making them indispensable for safeguarding large amounts of cryptocurrency. By following these best practices, you can ensure that your crypto remains safe, even in an increasingly volatile and risk-prone digital environment.

Introduction
In the rapidly evolving world of cryptocurrency, securing your digital assets is paramount. As the value and popularity of cryptocurrencies rise, so does the potential risk from cyber threats. This article outlines the top five best practices to help you safeguard your crypto assets effectively.
1. Use Hardware Wallets
What It Is: Hardware wallets are physical devices that store your private keys offline, making them immune to online hacking attempts.
Benefits:
Enhanced Security: Keeps your private keys offline, away from potential cyber threats.User Control: Gives you full control over your crypto assets.
Example: Popular hardware wallets include Ledger Nano S, Ledger Nano X, and Trezor.
Tip: Always buy hardware wallets from official websites to avoid tampered devices.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
What It Is: Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification beyond your password.
Benefits:
Increased Security: Protects your accounts even if your password is compromised.Ease of Use: Simple to set up on most exchanges and wallets.
Example: Use apps like Google Authenticator or Authy to enable 2FA.
Tip: Avoid SMS-based 2FA, as it can be vulnerable to SIM swapping attacks.
3. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
What It Is: Creating strong and unique passwords for your crypto accounts helps protect against unauthorized access.
Benefits:
Security: Reduces the risk of your accounts being hacked.Customization: Unique passwords for each account prevent a single point of failure.
Example: Use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using easily guessable information like birthdays.
Tip: Utilize a password manager to keep track of your passwords securely.
4. Regularly Update Software
What It Is: Keeping your software up to date ensures that you have the latest security patches and features.
Benefits:
Protection: Safeguards against known vulnerabilities.Performance: Ensures your wallet or exchange runs smoothly.
Example: Regularly update your crypto wallets, exchanges, and any related apps.
Tip: Enable automatic updates where possible to ensure you always have the latest security features.
5. Be Wary of Phishing Scams
What It Is: Phishing scams involve fraudulent attempts to obtain sensitive information by pretending to be a trustworthy entity.
Benefits:
Awareness: Recognizing phishing attempts can protect your assets from being stolen.Proactivity: Educating yourself on common scams helps you stay vigilant.
Example: Be cautious of emails or messages asking for your private keys or account information.
Tip: Always verify the URL and source before entering any personal information online.
Conclusion
Securing your crypto assets requires diligence and the adoption of multiple security practices. By using hardware wallets, enabling 2FA, creating strong passwords, keeping software updated, and staying vigilant against phishing scams, you can significantly reduce the risk of losing your valuable cryptocurrencies.
Call to Action
Start securing your crypto assets today! Implement these best practices and share them with your fellow crypto enthusiasts. For more tips and to join a secure trading platform, sign up on Binance using this referral link and enjoy a discount on your trading fees.
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#CryptoSecurity #hardwarewallets #TwoFactorAuthentication #PhishingScams #SecureCrypto