#CryptoSecurity101 # Crypto Security 101 🔐🛡️
In the world of crypto, **you are your own bank**—which is empowering, but also risky if you're not careful. Here's a beginner-friendly guide to **protecting your digital assets**.
---
## 🚨 Why Crypto Security Matters
Unlike banks or traditional platforms:
* **No password recovery** if you lose your keys
* **No chargebacks** on the blockchain
* **Scams and hacks** are common
---
## 🔑 Core Concepts
### 1. **Private Key**
* A secret code that gives full access to your crypto.
* **Never share it. Never store it online.**
### 2. **Seed Phrase (Recovery Phrase)**
* A 12–24 word backup of your wallet.
* **Write it down offline** and store it securely (never digitally).
### 3. **Public Address**
* Like your email address—but for receiving crypto.
* Safe to share.
---
## 🧰 Wallet Types & Their Security
| Wallet Type | Security Level | Example Tools | Online/Offline |
| -------------------- | -------------- | ------------------------- | -------------- |
| **Hardware Wallet** | 🔐🔐🔐🔐🔐 | Ledger, Trezor | Offline |
| **Software Wallet** | 🔐🔐🔐 | MetaMask, Trust Wallet | Online |
| **Custodial Wallet** | 🔐🔐 | Coinbase, Binance wallets | Online |
| **Paper Wallet** | 🔐🔐🔐🔐 | Manually generated keys | Offline |
> **Tip**: For large holdings, **use hardware wallets**.
## 🧠 Security Best Practices
### ✅ DO:
* Use **2FA** (Two-Factor Authentication) for exchanges
* Enable **withdrawal whitelists**
* Keep software and devices **updated**
* Store seed phrases **offline** (preferably in fireproof storage)
* Double-check URLs to avoid **phishing scams**
* Use **cold storage** for long-term holdings
### ❌ DON’T:
* Store private keys or seed phrases in Google Docs, email, or cloud storage
* Click random links or connect wallet to unknown dApps
* Reuse passwords across platforms
* Trust random DMs offering giveaways or support
## 🧨 Common Threats