Hacking in the crypto world is on the rise, with the latest case being the theft of $1.5 billion worth of Ethereum from Bybit, one of the largest incidents in history. Security is an aspect that cannot be overlooked when investing in digital assets. If you're not careful, you could lose funds in seconds due to a cyber attack. Here are five important steps you can take to protect your crypto investments from hacker threats in 2025.
1. Use a Secure Wallet (Cold Wallet vs. Hot Wallet)
Choosing the right wallet is the first step in securing your crypto. Generally, there are two types of wallets:
Hot Wallet: Connected to the internet and more vulnerable to attacks. Example: MetaMask, Trust Wallet.
Cold Wallet: Not connected to the internet, providing a higher level of security. Example: Ledger, Trezor.
If you hold large amounts of assets, use a cold wallet to reduce the risk of hacking. Avoid keeping all your assets on an exchange, as they often become primary targets for hackers.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for All Accounts
2FA is one of the most effective methods to prevent unauthorized access to your crypto account. By enabling 2FA, even if hackers manage to get your password, they still need an additional verification code to log in.
Use authentication apps like Google Authenticator or Authy, not SMS 2FA, as SIM swap attacks are becoming a more common threat. Additionally, make sure to back up your 2FA recovery codes in a safe place.
3. Be Wary of Phishing and Social Engineering Attacks
Many crypto investors fall victim to phishing through emails, text messages, or even phone calls pretending to be from official platforms. Here are some warning signs to watch out for:
Emails or messages asking you to enter your seed phrase or password.
Suspicious links that lead to fake sites of official crypto platforms.
Calls or messages from someone claiming to be customer support from an exchange or wallet.
Always ensure you access official sites directly from your browser, not from links sent via email or social media. Never give sensitive information to anyone.
4. Choose a Secure and Licensed Exchange
When choosing a crypto exchange, ensure that the platform has a good reputation and implements strict security measures, such as:
Protect user assets with cold storage (as done by Coinbase and Binance).
Insurance fund to protect users from hacking.
Security certifications such as ISO 27001 or SOC 2.
Withdrawal security, such as whitelist addresses that only allow withdrawals to pre-approved addresses.
Do your research before depositing funds into an exchange. Avoid platforms that are not transparent about their security policies.
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5. Stay Updated with Security Threats and Best Practices
The crypto world is rapidly evolving, as are the increasingly sophisticated hacking methods. You must continuously update your knowledge about security by:
Follow crypto security forums like r/CryptoCurrency on Reddit or blogs from security experts.
Use security alerts from platforms like Twitter/X or crypto communities.
Stay updated on the latest cyber attack news and how to avoid them.
Use the latest security software and always update your operating system and antivirus on your devices.
Conclusion
Security is the primary responsibility of every crypto investor. By implementing the steps above, you can reduce the risk of losing assets due to hacking. Use a cold wallet, enable 2FA, be wary of phishing, choose a trusted exchange, and always stay updated with the latest threats. With a disciplined approach, you can protect your crypto investments from hacker threats in 2025.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not financial advice. Always do your own research before making investment or digital security decisions.