• Thursday, April 25, 2024
businessday logo

BusinessDay

How to Secure a Bitcoin Wallet

China’s total ban clears path for new powers in crypto market

Modern technologies enable people to do many things online. That means you can create and leave data online that malicious people can use against you without knowing. Alarmingly, people are spying on others and using their digital footprints to destroy, steal, or alter their credentials. Others are using information from the communications and online activities of others for fraudulent activities.

If you’re a cryptocurrency trader or holder, you could be a victim of a cyber-attack. That’s because people use digital currencies online only. As such, use a reliable and secure Bitcoin wallet. Here are tips for securing a Bitcoin wallet.

Select a Bitcoin Wallet Based on Your Needs

You can define a Bitcoin wallet as an electronic device for storing, receiving, sending, and tracking digital currencies. The internet has different Bitcoin wallet types. Therefore, take your time to understand how each crypto wallet works. Choose a Bitcoin wallet that suits your crypto trading and storage needs. Also, consider the crypto wallet’s provider. A Bitcoin wallet from a reputable and reliable provider is the best. Some cryptocurrency exchanges offer secure crypto wallets too.

Use Two-Factor Authentication

It’s crucial to use a Bitcoin wallet that allows for two-factor authentication. That way, you get an additional security layer for the funds you store in the wallet. Ideally, two-factor authentication requires verification to complete any activity on or using the wallet. For instance, you will have to complete a verification process before you sign in, send, or withdraw funds. The wallet will ask you to provide a 2FA code. That way, you will know when somebody else tries to access your crypto wallet.

Encrypt Your Cryptocurrency Wallet

In addition to using two-factor authentication, encrypting your Bitcoin wallet can also enhance security. Bitcoin wallet encryption allows you to lock Bitcoins and create a password whenever somebody tries to access the account. That way, hackers can’t steal the funds in your Bitcoin wallet unless they have the password. To invest in bitcoins you can use online trading platform, for more click here

Backup Your Bitcoin Wallet Regularly

Some companies that provide Bitcoin wallets allow users to back up their data. When you back up your Bitcoin wallet’s data, you can access it even if you experience a software or computer system failure. Also, you can retrieve your data or funds easily if lost or somebody steals it. Use several devices to back up your wallet for easy recovery. Also, consider different devices, including hard drives like CDs and USBs, as well as papers.

Update Your Software

Updating your software should be a routine. That’s because software updates give your device the latest improvements on security fixes and features. Dealing with automatic updates is less of a hassle. However, set your device in a way that notifies you whenever there are new updates.

Also, check the updates to know the new features added to the wallet. Automatic updates enable you to avoid interruptions when completing transactions. And before you install new updates, check whether there is a bug that may impact your data.

Protect Your Wallet’s Private Key

Your Bitcoin wallet’s private key should get the same treatment as your bank account’s PIN. That’s because if somebody gets it, they can use it to transfer the funds into your wallet. Therefore, keep your wallet’s private key secure. To do this, avoid keeping your wallet’s private key online. Instead, use paper or go for cold storage methods that you can access offline.

In addition to these measures, consider using different passwords if you have several Bitcoin wallet accounts. Also, avoid clicking on suspicious and unknown links. What’s more, use a secure Wi-Fire or internet connection to access your wallet.