Taking a little time to setup and establish your online privacy and security is highly advisable, particularly for crypto related activities.
It could save you Thousands of dollars and a lot of frustration and heartache later. It's not difficult or costly.
Here is how to do it...
Regardless of what you may think about Bitcoin, or how much you personally value it. One thing is for certain. There are plenty of very accomplished hackers online, that consider it to be "Digital Gold".
My own research reveals a "perfect storm" is and has been developing for Bitcoin. If it's anything near what all the signs are indicating, the previous Bitcoin rally that generated so much wealth for so many ordinary people, will absolutely PALE in comparison to what is on the horizon and closing in fast. I predict the previous rally was just a watered down preview of what is going to take place over the next couple of years, and I'm very grateful that I was led, as I was (see my bitcoin story) to do the necessary research, and more importantly, to actually recognize and appreciate the significance of this particular moment in history. I recognized and established my position BEFORE the "big boys" entered and brought all their friends (and their investment capital) into "the fold" so to speak.
More importantly for YOU, is if you are reading this. You still have the opportunity to do the same. And, if you do things right, there is a very good chance you will ultimately have something worth protecting.
Question: Do you want to lose everything due to theft? Of course not.
So, since an ounce of protection is worth a pound of cure, I strongly recommend you implement as many of the following precautions as possible. The nice thing about these precautions is you can just set them and forget them. But it does take a small investment of time, money, and effort on your part to set things up right.
Buying, selling and transacting in Bitcoin is done using the following tools:
1. Secure Internet Service
You should always use a VPN when you surf the Internet. Especially for Crypto related activities. Both proton mail and brave browser below offer one. Take your pick.
2. Secure Web Browser
Use a secure web browser for all bitcoin related online activities. I recommend Brave . Brave is a FREE, Web 3.0 browser that also offers a VPN. (video below)
3. Secure, Encrypted Email Service
Proton mail is my choice. It has many features including a VPN. Just get it and use it for all Crypto related correspondence (see video below)
4. Protecting Your Cell Phone
Your cell phone should at least require a passcode to access. Better still biometrics like a fingerprint. This is especially true if you use a crypto exchange app on your phone.
5. Using 2FA (Two Factor Authentication)
Don't use Google Authenticator! I recommend Authy. It works wherever Google Authenticator is a choice. Two Factor Authentication adds another layer of security to your web site logins.
I recommend using a secure browser and dedicated secure email service exclusively for your crypto endeavors. Also, you should always have and use a VPN (virtual private network) to encrypt your Internet connection. Below you will find information and links to secure all the above. This should be your first step in preparation for your first Bitcoin purchase.
We will cover each of these in more detail. You can also search YouTube for more information and instructions for each of these important, security tools.
Establishing your security and privacy is the first step...
It's important to establish a solid, secure foundation. You can download and install the three, security software programs I use and recommend, by clicking each of the three images below.
ProtonMail is a secure email service that prioritizes user privacy and security. Here are some key reasons why using ProtonMail can be important and valuable:
1. **End-to-End Encryption:**
- ProtonMail employs end-to-end encryption, meaning that only the intended recipient can decrypt and read the emails. This ensures that even ProtonMail cannot access the content of your messages.
2. **Zero-Access Encryption:**
- ProtonMail uses zero-access encryption, which means that even the company itself cannot access your emails. This adds an extra layer of security and ensures that your data remains private.
3. **Anonymous Account Creation:**
- Users can create a ProtonMail account without providing personally identifiable information. This anonymous account creation enhances privacy and makes it more difficult for third parties to associate your email address with your identity.
4. **Open Source:**
- ProtonMail is built on open-source software, allowing security experts and the wider community to inspect the code for vulnerabilities. This transparency helps build trust in the service's security features.
5. **Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):**
- ProtonMail supports two-factor authentication, adding an extra layer of security to your account. This means that even if your password is compromised, unauthorized access is less likely.
6. **Data Center Security:**
- ProtonMail stores user data in secure data centers located in Switzerland, known for its strong privacy laws. This provides an additional layer of legal protection for user data.
7. **Self-Destructing Emails:**
- ProtonMail allows users to send self-destructing emails, which automatically delete themselves after a specified time. This feature can be useful for sending sensitive information that should not be retained indefinitely.
8. **Phishing Protection:**
- ProtonMail incorporates anti-phishing measures to help users identify and avoid phishing attempts, protecting them from falling victim to fraudulent activities.
9. **Secure Password Practices:**
- ProtonMail encourages users to use strong, unique passwords and provides tools to help users manage their passwords securely.
10. **Cross-Platform Accessibility:**
- ProtonMail is accessible across various platforms through web browsers and dedicated mobile apps, making it convenient for users to access their secure emails from different devices.
Using ProtonMail can be particularly valuable for individuals and organizations that prioritize privacy and want a secure communication platform to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access. It's important to note that while ProtonMail enhances security, users should still practice good security hygiene, such as using strong passwords and regularly updating them.
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