Scams, Fraud & Security
A simple, no‑hype guide to protecting yourself in crypto and understanding common risks.
This page breaks down the topic in plain language, section by section, so you can learn the idea without getting lost in jargon.
Educational only. Not financial advice.
Why Scams Exist in Crypto
Crypto is open and global. Anyone can launch a token, a website, or a wallet app in minutes. That openness is powerful, but it also attracts scammers because there are fewer gatekeepers. People move fast, the market moves fast, and scammers take advantage of that speed. A common trick is urgency: “act now,” “limited time,” or “you will miss out.” Another is authority: fake support agents, fake influencers, or copied websites that look real. Some scams are simple, like asking for your seed phrase. Others are complex, like fake tokens that cannot be sold after you buy. The lesson is the same: if someone wants your keys, your password, or your trust immediately, stop and verify. Crypto gives you control, which also means you must protect yourself. The safest mindset is to move slower than the scam. Read, verify, and do not let pressure make decisions for you.
Your Wallet Is the Security Boundary
Your wallet is your vault. It is protected by a private key or a seed phrase (12 or 24 words). Whoever has that phrase controls the funds. That is why you never share it, never type it into unknown websites, and never send it to anyone claiming to help you. No real support will ever ask for your seed phrase. A good habit is to store your seed phrase offline, in a safe place, and never in cloud notes or screenshots. Use a hardware wallet if you can. That keeps the keys off your computer and reduces the chance of malware stealing them. If you can, separate a small “daily” wallet from a long‑term storage wallet so you limit risk. Think of your seed phrase like the master key to your home. You do not give it out. You do not copy it to a public place. You protect it, because that is what keeps your money yours.
Red Flags to Watch For
Some warning signs are always the same: promises of guaranteed returns, pressure to act fast, and lack of clear information. If a project is hiding its team, has no real product, or only talks about price, be careful. Also watch for fake sites and fake apps. Scammers copy the design of real projects and create links that look almost identical. Always type the official site yourself, and verify links from trusted sources. For tokens, check if liquidity is locked and if the contract is public and verified. The safest habit is to treat every interaction like it could be a trap until you confirm otherwise. A few extra minutes of checking can save you from losing everything.
Official Security Resources
If you are new, start with official guides and security checklists. They explain safe storage, scams to avoid, and how to verify projects before interacting.