• Category
  • >Cryptocurrency

How to Protect Your Cryptocurrency in 2023?

  • Ashesh Anand
  • Jan 12, 2023
How to Protect Your Cryptocurrency in 2023? title banner

 

What exactly is a Cryptocurrency Wallet?

 

An app, service, or physical wallet like a USB stick that contains public keys and private keys is referred to as a cryptocurrency wallet or digital wallet. This keeps your bitcoin safe and secure. When conducting cryptographic transactions, you can encrypt and decode using these keys, which are strings of complex letters and numbers.

 

No central controlling body, such as the federal government, the central bank, or an insurance company, issues or insures cryptocurrency wallets. A public key is comparable to a username for a bank account, and a private key is comparable to a PIN or password. You must protect these secret keys or your entire wallet risk being stolen in a matter of seconds.

 

In general, the majority of bitcoin wallets provide a variety of security features, including complex passwords and secret phrases. Any wallet cannot be easily compromised. But cryptocurrency users should start adopting additional security measures due to an increase in attempts to hack bitcoin wallets and exchanges.

 

Also Read | Advantages and Disadvantages of Cryptocurrency

 

 

How do Hackers Steal Crypto?

 

Hackers mostly utilize one of two techniques to steal cryptocurrency: either they steal it outright or they deceive victims into handing it to them. When people or companies wish to invest in cryptocurrencies, they frequently use a blockchain exchange. This procedure entails opening an account and funding it with money that has been converted into the chosen digital currency. The exchange is the sole party with access to the private keys that are used to control and store the cryptocurrency in a custodial wallet, where it is typically kept.

 

Like traditional banks, blockchain exchange networks will only keep a certain amount of cryptocurrency in "hot" wallets to support consumer transactions. While cold wallets hold the private keys that are required to access bitcoin offline, hot wallets are made to store cryptocurrency online.

 

Governments now lack the financial processes necessary to protect cryptocurrency deposits in the event that an exchange is closed, unlike centralized banks. Crypto customers are typically out of luck if their digital money is lost or stolen when cyberattacks target an exchange.

 

It is practically impossible to find the hacker or group of hackers that stole the money due to the nature of blockchain networks. It's a good idea to look at how hackers get into cryptocurrency wallets before discussing how to defend yourself from such attacks. You can find a list of their strategies below.

 

  1. Phishing attacks: 

 

Phishing attacks are a frequent way for hackers to steal information. Attackers use cloned websites that eerily resemble genuine cryptocurrency exchanges to trick their victims. Additionally, the schemes' domain names are chosen specifically to be misleading. For instance, use Binance.co rather than Binance.com.

 

Targets are readily duped into visiting the cloned websites and entering their crypto account details because the websites are frequently identical. Data is sent to the hackers after this information is entered. Once they get this data, they utilize it to log into the victim's actual account on a reputable cryptocurrency website.

 

Also Read | Bitcoin and its revolution in the crypto market

 

 

  1. Fake hardware wallets:  

 

You should be wary of another type of hacking called fake hardware wallets. Hackers typically target people who already own a hardware wallet and persuade them into using a tampered replacement that is intended to steal cryptographic keys.

 

The target receives a package containing the modified hardware wallet in the first phase of the hoax. A message informing the target that their present device is weak and needs to be replaced with the provided wallet is typically included in the bundle.

 

The new part is typically provided with instructions requesting the user to connect the device to a computer and enter the recovery key for their crypto wallet. Once the keys have been entered, they are recorded and sent to the hackers, who can then use them to open the blockchain wallet. By getting access to the wallet, they can steal money.

 

It's crucial to remember that hardware wallet vendors never request their clients' recovery keys. Additionally, they never provide replacements unless you specifically request them.

 

 

  1. Exploits through SMS 2FA Verification:  

 

SMS-based two-factor authentication (2FA) is one of the most widely utilized verification methods available today. However, social engineering and endpoint exploits can abuse it.

 

Malicious actors may occasionally use SIM swapping to intercept SMS verification messages. SIM-swap schemes entail pretending to be a target in order to fool telecom workers into giving up ownership of a SIM card number. Hackers can eavesdrop on 2FA messages related to a user's cryptocurrency accounts when ownership is transferred.

 

More sophisticated 2FA interception techniques make use of SS7 (Signaling System 7) characteristics. Communication across various phone networks is handled via the telecommunications protocol known as SS7. In addition, it is crucial to the 2FA SMS procedure.

 

 

  1. Malware:  

 

Hackers are attacking well-known operating systems like Windows and macOS with a variety of malware variants. Some of the infections are designed to recognize copied bitcoin addresses and replace them with hacker-owned wallet addresses. Successful exchanges typically result in the delivery of cryptocurrency to unanticipated addresses under the control of hackers.

 

The primary method used by earlier iterations of the malware to infect computers was to deceive victims into installing dangerous software. Targets are now, however, occasionally steered to websites that contain malware. The worms look for device exploits and infect crucial clipboard modules as soon as they enter the page.

 

In other cases, workers at cryptocurrency exchanges are the target. Having access to their computers frequently aids in jeopardizing crucial exchange infrastructure.

 

Also Read | What is Malware? What are the signs of Malware Infection?

 

 

How Can Crypto Be kept Safe From Hackers? 

 

Consider some security best practices for handling and investing in cryptocurrencies. 


 

Depicted in the image are different ways and tips by which you can protect your wallet.

Security Tips for Protecting your Wallet


 

  1. Use a Few Different Wallets: 

 

Don't store all of your cryptocurrencies in one wallet; for example, you should have separate wallets for your primary portfolio, airdrops, and daily transactions. This is one of the greatest strategies to safeguard your cryptocurrency wallet when it comes to minimizing the effects of any hacker activity on your wallet. To avoid catastrophic losses, you should spread out your cryptocurrency investments among several wallets.

 

 

  1. Make Sure Your Internet Connection Is Secure: 

 

Using public Wi-Fi or unprotected internet is one of the ways you might allow a hacker access to your device when wondering things like "can your crypto wallet be hacked? Use a secure internet connection and a VPN for the highest level of protection whether trading online or using your crypto wallet. 

 

A VPN's job is to protect your surfing activities from hackers and to assist in changing your IP address and location. By encrypting a user's online traffic, a virtual private network (VPN) can change their IP address and location. VPNs are a simple way to protect users' internet data and browsing activities from outsiders, like hackers.

 

 

  1. Consistently Change Your Passwords: 

 

Hackers may find it quite simple to guess your password and gain access to your cryptocurrency wallet if you are known to use a specific password across a number of different locations or websites. One of the solutions to "how to safeguard your crypto wallet" is to routinely change your password and use unique/complex passwords. 

 

Utilize two-factor authentication (2FA) if it's an option on your device or wallet to further increase security against hackers. You might use an online password manager, which can always create really strong passwords, to prevent password repetition.

 

Also Read | What is Public Key Encryption?

 

 

  1. Watch out for phishing: 

 

Another method hackers use to access people's cryptocurrency wallets and take their coins is phishing. To steal cryptocurrency from unsuspecting people, hackers often employ fraudulent emails and advertising that you click on. Hackers spoof the original crypto company's email or advertisement to trick people into entering their security keys and other sensitive information.

 

 

  1. Protect your local device: 

 

When your computer or mobile device, depending on what it is, is not secured, someone can easily access your cryptocurrency wallet and move your coins to another one. Additionally, install firewalls and antivirus software on your device to fend off viruses and online attacks. Enable the fingerprint or face detection features on your smartphone if they exist for optimal security.

 

Also Read | Difference between On-Chain and Off-Chain Transactions

 

 

  1. Making use of an Authenticator app: 

 

Your exchange account might be even more secure if you use an authenticator tool like Google Authenticator for 2FA. Since withdrawal codes from authenticator apps are not sent via SMS text messages, an attacker cannot obtain your withdrawal code even if they take over your phone service or mirror your messages.

 

The hacker would need access to your phone if you utilize an authenticator app in order to obtain the 2FA code. That is a much more effective layer of protection than SMS.

 

An attacker could be able to get through the exchange's security even if you have 2FA enabled. In this situation, you can unintentionally lose your cryptocurrency. You can also be subject to withdrawal holds or other rules that prevent you from accessing your cryptocurrency if the exchange is compromised. This is where taking your cryptocurrency out can be helpful.

 

 

  1. Utilize a cold wallet:  

 

A hot wallet and a cold wallet are the two storage options available to you for cryptocurrencies. Cold wallets use real hardware resembling a USB drive to safely store cryptocurrency offline. These wallets are connected to a private, encrypted key, which is a numeric code that enables the owner to unlock the wallet and gain access to the digital assets it contains. 

 

These physical wallets are less vulnerable to cyberattacks and a safer alternative to hot wallets. Naturally, cold wallets have a disadvantage as well. Users risk losing access to their cryptocurrency if they forget their wallet password. Users of hot wallets can instantly access and use their money online. The fact that these online wallets are vulnerable to assaults, however, is a serious drawback. 

 

For instance, if a hacker gains access to a user's investment account, they can then use this online storage mechanism to steal all of the user's money. One of these instances is the massive assault in 2019 on the Japanese exchange known as BITpoint. This exchange revealed that a hack impacting more than 50,000 customers resulted in the unlawful withdrawal of $32 million from many hot wallets. Users who had cold wallets and cash on hand were unaffected, according to BITpoint.

 

When you utilize a cold wallet, the likelihood of a hacker accessing your portfolio is virtually nonexistent. Even exchanges, like the Japanese exchange BITpoint, claimed in 2019 that their cold wallet was unaffected when they had a cyberattack. Cryptocurrency cold wallets are encrypted, which preserves your secret keys and prevents anybody else from accessing them except for you.

 

Also Read | Hot Wallet Vs Cold Wallet - How are they Different?

 

 

Conclusion:

 

As more people download wallets and sign up for networks for the first time, the cryptocurrency market keeps reaching new highs, but this surge in activity also attracts more crooks who want to take advantage of the new users.

 

Utilizing 2FA, withdrawing from an exchange, backing up your seed words, avoiding open public Wi-Fi, and using a VPN is just a few of the techniques we've discussed to secure your cryptocurrency from this new breed of criminal.

 

Scammers will probably find new ways to steal cryptocurrency in the future, and we'll update this page when they do. These are some of the best strategies to safeguard your cryptocurrency in the interim.

Latest Comments

  • natalielane02001757edd6cac4823

    Feb 15, 2025

    My husband and I have always been careful with our financial decisions. We researched, planned, and never took unnecessary risks at least, that’s what we thought. But sometimes, even the most cautious people can find themselves in difficult situations. Not long ago, we came across an opportunity that seemed promising. The numbers made sense, the platform looked professional, and everything appeared to be in order. At first, things went smoothly. We saw positive results, and our confidence grew. But over time, small concerns started to arise, delays, unanswered questions, and inconsistencies we couldn’t ignore. Before we knew it, we were locked out, with no clear path forward. The feeling was overwhelming. We had invested not just our money but also our trust, and now we were left with nothing but uncertainty. We explored every possible way to fix the situation on our own, but it became clear that we needed professional help. That’s when we found **Digital Resolution Services**. At first, we were skeptical after all, trusting someone new after what we had just been through wasn’t easy. But from the very first conversation, they reassured us. They had seen cases like ours before, and they knew exactly what to do. Step by step, they guided us through the process, kept us updated, and most importantly, delivered results. Looking back, we learned a valuable lesson. Even the most well-thought-out plans can go wrong, but what matters is how you respond. If we hadn’t reached out for help, we might have never recovered. Thanks to the right people, we were able to turn things around and for that, we’re incredibly grateful. Thanks to:DIGITAL RESOLUTION SERVICES Email: digitalresolutionservices@myself.com Email: digitalresolutionservices007@zohomail.com WhatsApp: +1 (361) 260-8628 Grateful soul Natalie Lane

  • valentinlindberg1676cb6256cddec486d

    Mar 06, 2025

    Have you lost or forgotten the wallet seed phrase of digital assets you worked so hard to earn? Keep your cool! Get in touch with DARKEYES CYBER SECURITY COMPANY for help with recovering lost or stolen cryptocurrency or fixing any cyber related issues. Don't allow fraudsters to take your priceless digital assets; the DARKEYES team will do everything in their power to ensure that you get your lost data back. With pleasure, I introduce to you DARKEYES CYBER SECURITY COMPANY , a respectable private investigation and asset recovery company that assists people who have been the targets of frauds and scams in recovering their money as well as digital assets that have been lost, stolen, or compromised. They are incredibly helpful and take a very personal approach to their consumers' problems. My personal experience with them led me to award them a 5-star rating. Their channels for customer inquiries are: WHATSAPP: +1 (470) 401‑8548 EMAIL: Darkeyes@fastservice.com

  • marissamcgregor43aac58e601ffc4148

    Mar 06, 2025

    Infinite Digital Recovery — A Trusted Partner in Bitcoin Recovery. In the ever-evolving world of cryptocurrency, losing access to your Bitcoin wallet can be a nightmare. The inability to access your digital assets can be incredibly stressful, whether due to forgotten passwords, hardware failures, or misplaced private keys. Fortunately, specialized services are dedicated to helping you recover your lost or inaccessible Bitcoin wallets. Infinite Digital Recovery has emerged as a trusted leader in crypto asset recovery. Since 2015, Infinite Digital Recovery has provided top-tier recovery services, earning a reputation as the go-to solution for individuals and businesses. This article’ll explore the key features that make Infinite Digital Recovery the best choice for recovering Bitcoin wallets, highlighting their commitment to security, usability, and customer support. Why Choose Infinite Digital Recovery for Bitcoin Wallet Recovery? 1. Proven Track Record Since 2015 Infinite Digital Recovery has been a trusted name in the crypto recovery industry since 2015. With years of experience, they have helped countless clients regain access to their lost or inaccessible Bitcoin wallets. Their expertise spans many recovery scenarios, including forgotten passwords, corrupted hardware wallets, and lost private keys. 2. Advanced Recovery Tools and Techniques Infinite Digital Recovery employs state-of-the-art tools and techniques to ensure the highest success rate in wallet recovery. Their team of skilled professionals uses advanced algorithms and forensic methods to recover lost data, making them one of the most reliable recovery services in the industry. 3. Unmatched Security Measures Security is a top priority for Infinite Digital Recovery. They understand the sensitive nature of crypto assets and ensure that all recovery processes are conducted with the utmost confidentiality and security. Their protocols are designed to protect your data and assets throughout the recovery process. 4. User-Friendly and Accessible One of the standout features of Infinite Digital Recovery is its commitment to usability. Their recovery process is straightforward and user-friendly, ensuring that even those with limited technical knowledge can navigate the service with ease. Additionally, their customer support team is available to assist you at every step. 5. Comprehensive Customer Support Infinite Digital Recovery takes pride in offering exceptional customer support. Whether you have questions about the recovery process or need assistance with a specific issue, their team is just a message or call away. They offer multiple communication channels, including email and WhatsApp, to ensure you can reach them conveniently. If you’re looking to recover your lost Bitcoin wallet, Infinite Digital Recovery is here to help. You can reach out to them through the following channels: Email:  infinitedigitalrecovery@techie.com WH4TS4PP: +1 323 554 3592 Their team is available to provide personalized assistance and guide you through the recovery process. Why Infinite Digital Recovery is the Best Crypto Recovery Company Infinite Digital Recovery has consistently proven itself as a leader in the crypto recovery space. Their combination of advanced technology, experienced professionals, and customer-centric approach sets them apart from the competition. Whether you’re an individual investor or a business, you can trust Infinite Digital Recovery to help you regain access to your valuable crypto assets.

  • ardeshirgodrejj53878936e0324bd3

    Mar 18, 2025

    Gainbitcoin scam- “My life’s greatest mishap”, Spyhost’s intervention- “ My ray of hope”. First Up, I’d like to render my appreciation in my best ways to the most reputable, transparent and the best Digital currency recovery company ever known as “ SPYHOST CYBER SECURITY COMPANY ” “How did it start?” That’s one Must-asked question. Well, it all started with sophistry of huge returns such that can’t be easily turned away and no one could have thought it to be a “ high profiled scam”. My 15 million rupees investment funds could have been a story of yesterday if not for a close family friend called Aditya who introduced me to SPYHOST CYBER SECURITY COMPANY. A recovery firm that made use of Modern forensic investigative methods to dive into the situation. They really played a significant role in recovering my lost Crypto funds within 72 hours as I was been assured . You can reach out to them if in anyway you are in victim of the same situation as mine or any other issue related to cryptocurrency of such as “Data hijacking” and " Recovery of wallet seed phrase. Here are the contact informations through which you can reach out to them, Email: Spyhost@cyberdude.com

  • savicpereze44f7fa3195d42eb

    Mar 19, 2025

    I was scammed by a Forex company for over $120,000, they took all my money and wouldn't let me log into my account, it was a sad experience for me. I had to report the case to the police, but no solution was offered. Thanks to Access Recovery, I was referred to them by a friend who they had already helped recover his lost money, they were quick in their service and my money was recovered within a few days. I'm happy to be able to share my experience, after all the money I thought I had lost was deposited back into my account. If you find yourself in a similar situation, contact Access Recovery today via their official email address: accessrecovery432@gmail.com Regards Sarah Beus

  • mellen23101e7cf7ffcd40e4cf8

    Mar 28, 2025

    A Crypto Theft Victim's Journey: How Morphohack Cyber Service Restored My Assets By: Ellen Moody, Crypto Investor and Advocate I was left reeling after discovering that my digital wallet had been compromised, resulting in the loss of 39.5 Ethereum. This devastating experience left me desperate for a solution. I reached out to Morphohack Cyber Service. Their team responded with exceptional professionalism and expertise, promptly launching a comprehensive analysis of the blockchain network to track the stolen funds. Their specialists employed cutting-edge blockchain analytics tools to follow the digital footprint, providing detailed explanations of their methods. It was evident that they possessed a profound understanding of hacker strategies and vulnerabilities. Despite encountering obstacles, they persevered, meticulously tracking the ETH as it navigated various wallets and tumblers. Throughout the process, Morphohack Cyber Service maintained seamless communication, providing regular updates on the case. Ultimately, their efforts culminated in the successful recovery of 37 ETH, seized from the wallets holding my stolen assets. I’m profoundly grateful for Morphohack Cyber Service expertise and genuine commitment to helping victims of crypto theft. Their specialized knowledge of blockchain forensics is unmatched. I highly recommend their services to anyone facing a similar situation. In the complex world of crypto, they are truly a trusted ally. Need Help Recovering Stolen Crypto? Contact Morphohack Cyber Service: Email: Morphohack@cyberservices.com Info@morphohackcyber.com Morphohackcyber.com

  • camillerose381005e23b5adb845fc

    Mar 29, 2025

    In the bustling tech hub of Canada, freelance blockchain developer I had always prided myself on a cautious approach to cryptocurrency. But even the saviest minds can stumble. In early 2024, lured by promises of 300% returns from a platform called CryptoGrowth Futures, I invested life savings—$550,000 in Bitcoin—into what seemed like a revolutionary AI-driven trading algorithm. For weeks, the platform's dashboard shows exponential gains. Then, one day, it all disappeared. The website went dark, and the support team dissolved like smoke. I had fallen victim to a sophisticated pig-butchering scam. Desperate for a solution, I started searching online for ways to recover lost crypto. That's when I stumbled upon Dexdert Net, a cyber recovery service specializing in retrieving stolen or lost cryptocurrencies. Their reviews were promised, and after reaching out, I was assigned a case specialist who guided me through the process, they began by tracking my Bitcoin transactions using blockchain analysis tools. Within days, they identified the scammers' wallet They successfully intercepted the stolen Bitcoin before it was laundered into untraceable wallets. After weeks of intense work, I received the best news of my life—my Bitcoin had been recovered! Dexdert Net transferred my funds back into my secure wallet, and I finally breathed a sigh of relief. If you ever fall victim to a scam, don't lose hope—services like Dexdert Net can help reclaim what's rightfully yours. INFORMATION CONTACT VIA: WhatsApp: (+1 (859) 609‑4156) Email: ( DexdertNetPro@mail.com ) Telegram: (@Dexdertprorecovery)

  • dwill2310189ca6f9dbcb44c13

    Mar 30, 2025

    Contact: Morphohack@cyberservices.com This is the email that changed everything for me. I thought my $88,000 in Bitcoin was lost forever. After exhausting every possible recovery method, resetting passwords, contacting exchanges, and searching through old files. I was at a complete loss. It felt like all hope was gone. Then, I came across a review about MORPHOHACK CYBER SERVICES and their expertise in recovering lost Bitcoin. At first, I was skeptical. After all, I had already tried everything. But desperation pushed me to take a chance, and I reached out. From the moment I contacted them, I was impressed by their professionalism and clear communication. They asked for the necessary details, explained the recovery process step by step, and reassured me that they had helped many others in my situation. Within just a few hours, to my absolute disbelief, they successfully recovered every last bit of my Bitcoin! The relief and gratitude I felt were overwhelming. I had already accepted that my funds were gone, but thanks to Morphohack Cyber Service, I got everything back quickly and securely. If you’ve lost Bitcoin due to a scam, forgotten passwords, or any technical issue, don’t give up hope. Morphohack Cyber Service has the skills, experience, and technology to help you recover what’s rightfully yours. I highly recommend their services to anyone in need of crypto recovery. Morphohackcyber.com

  • bernardmariam8602678a2f3ab55433b

    Apr 16, 2025

    For years, I carried the heavy burden of a costly mistake—losing $191,000 worth of Bitcoin in a wrong investment. I had trusted the wrong platform, and in a blink, my hard-earned crypto vanished. Desperate, I searched for solutions until I discovered Cyber Codex Revolution, a team of elite blockchain forensic experts specializing in recovering lost or stolen cryptocurrency. Skeptical but hopeful, I reached out. Their team responded swiftly, analyzing my transaction history and identifying the fraudulent investment scheme. Using advanced blockchain tracing tools, they uncovered the movement of my funds, which had been funneled through multiple wallets to obscure their trail. Cyber Codex Revolution worked tirelessly, employing legal and technical strategies to pressure the scammers. Through their relentless efforts, they successfully recovered 95% of my lost Bitcoin approximately $182,450 USD returning it to my secure wallet. The relief was indescribable. Thanks to **Cyber Codex Revolution**, I regained not just my funds but also my faith in justice within the crypto space. If you’ve been scammed, don’t lose hope—reach out to them. They are the real deal.  Cyber Codex Revolution – Turning Crypto Losses Into Recovery. Email:CyberCodexRevolution@Mail.comTelegram: https://t.me/Cyber_Codex_RevolutionWhatsapp: +39 3509036825

  • blakesandrew38e6873223e1f4b49

    Apr 24, 2025

    There's no way a betrayal hurts more than that from one who you considered your brother. Me and my best friend had been inseparable for years-we traveled together, confided in each other, and even talked about going into crypto as a team. I thought we had that kind of bond that could stand anything. I was wrong. It wasn't until the crypto investments actually started to grow that all wasn't well. It happened subtly at first: offhand comments about how "lucky" I was, how it was easy, how she was the one supposed to make the profits. At first, I laughed it off, thinking perhaps she was just frustrated with the financial struggles herself. What I didn't catch was the slow build-up of resentment. Then, one night, my whole world was turned upside down. I opened up my wallet app, ready to check on my holdings, when I saw something that almost made me sick-$370,000 was gone. Vanished without a trace. My fingers shook as I scrolled down the transaction history. Someone had accessed my money. Someone who knew exactly how to get in. Panic turned to horror as the realization hit me. There was only one person who had ever seen my seed phrase. My best friend. The next day, I confronted her, still holding on to the ridiculous hope that somehow it was all some misunderstanding. But she didn't deny it. She didn't even look guilty. Instead, she snapped, saying that she "deserved" it just as much as I did, that I had "too much" while she struggled, and that I was being selfish by not sharing more of my success. I stood there, speechless, as years of friendship crumbled in an instant. I wasn't just betrayed; I was blindsided by the entitlement of it all. Heartbroken but determined, I immediately began finding ways to recover my stolen funds. That is when I found ADRIAN LAMO HACKER. I read through so many testimonials from people actually going through similar situations as mine and, for the first time in days, I felt a glimmer of hope. I reached out ADRIAN LAMO HACKER Via WhatsApp: ‪+1 (909) 739‑0269/ Telegram: @ADRIANLAMOHACKERTECH / Email:Adrianlamo@consultant.com ‬, and before I knew it, their team got down to work: following the money, making sense of all the transactions, decoding my so-called friend's attempt to cover her tracks. Days later, I received that call-it changed everything. My money was back. It was like relief overflowing, yet accompanied by such painful realization that, yes, I got my money back but lost a person in whom once my life was entrusted. Not all friendships are built to stand the test of time and success; not everyone's cheering for you until you win.