Security Tools
Essential tools and practices to protect your crypto assets
Layered Security
No single tool provides complete security. Effective protection comes from layering multiple tools and practices. Think of it as defense in depth—if one layer fails, others still protect you.
The tools below work together to secure your accounts, devices, and transactions.
Password Managers
Why they matter: If you reuse passwords and one service is breached, attackers try those credentials everywhere. Password managers eliminate this risk.
Recommended approach: Use established managers like Bitwarden, 1Password, or KeePass. Enable 2FA on the manager itself. Your master password should be memorized and very strong.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
2FA adds a second verification step beyond your password. Even if your password is compromised, attackers can't access your account without the second factor.
Types of 2FA (from most to least secure):
• Hardware keys (YubiKey): Physical devices that must be present. Phishing-resistant and most secure.
• Authenticator apps: Time-based codes from apps like Google Authenticator or Authy. Good security, widely supported.
• SMS codes: Better than nothing, but vulnerable to SIM swap attacks. Avoid for high-value accounts.
Approval and Transaction Checkers
Revoke.cash: Shows all token approvals you've granted and lets you revoke them. Essential for DeFi users.
Transaction simulators: Tools like Tenderly or wallet features that show what a transaction will do before you sign it. Helps catch malicious transactions.
Wallet security extensions: Browser extensions like Pocket Universe or Fire that warn about suspicious transactions or known scam addresses.
Device Security Basics
Keep software updated: Operating systems, browsers, and apps. Security patches fix known vulnerabilities.
Use antivirus/antimalware: Basic protection against common threats. Windows Defender is adequate for most users.
Secure your network: Use strong WiFi passwords. Consider a VPN on public networks. Be cautious about what you do on untrusted networks.
Device encryption: Enable full-disk encryption on laptops and phones. Protects data if devices are lost or stolen.
Why Security Tools Matter
- Crypto theft is often irreversible—prevention is everything
- Attackers specifically target crypto users
- Proper tools make good security practices sustainable
- Layered approach means single failures aren't catastrophic
Common Security Mistakes
- •Reusing passwords across multiple services
- •Using SMS 2FA for exchange accounts (SIM swap risk)
- •Ignoring software updates with security patches
- •Not backing up 2FA recovery codes
- •Leaving old token approvals active indefinitely
Key Takeaways
- Use a password manager for unique, strong passwords everywhere
- Enable 2FA on all crypto accounts—prefer hardware keys or authenticator apps
- Regularly review and revoke unused token approvals
- Keep devices and software updated with security patches
- Layer multiple security tools—no single solution is complete