Common crypto scams and how to keep your keys, seed phrase, and funds safe.
Security is the most important part of crypto. These tips help you avoid fake wallets, phishing links, rug pulls, and the worst mistakes people make before they send coins.
Educational content only. This is not financial advice or a recommendation to buy, sell, hold, or use leverage.
Your private keys and seed phrase are the only way to access your crypto. Treat them like cash: never share them, never store them in a screenshot, and never enter them into a website or app unless you are absolutely sure it is legitimate.
Offline storage: write your seed phrase on paper and store it in a safe place.
No digital copies: avoid photos, cloud drives, email drafts, or notes apps for your seed phrase.
Hardware wallets: use a hardware wallet for larger balances and confirm every action on the device screen.
Double-check addresses before you send crypto
Sending funds to the wrong address is permanent. Scammers often use fake addresses, clipboard hijackers, or tiny typos to steal money. Always verify the destination before you hit send.
Confirm manually: compare the first and last characters of the address and use a trusted source.
Test with a small amount: send a tiny transaction first when using a new address.
Avoid copy/paste from chats: scammers can replace copied addresses with their own.
Watch out for fake wallets and software
Fake wallet apps, browser extensions, and hardware wallet clones try to trick you into revealing your keys or seed phrase. Always use official downloads and verify the publisher before installing.
Official sources only: download wallets directly from the official website or app store listing.
Check URLs carefully: phishing sites often use misspelled domains or lookalike URLs.
Avoid untrusted dapps: don’t connect your wallet to unknown websites or sign transactions you don’t understand.
Rug pulls, scams, and bad token projects
Many tokens and DeFi projects are designed to look impressive, then disappear once they collect enough money. Slow down and verify the team, tokenomics, liquidity, and roadmap before participating.
Check liquidity: low liquidity or locked tokens are red flags for exits.
Review the team: anonymous or scammy teams with no history are higher risk.