Getting Started
BEFORE doing anything with crypto it’s imperative that you follow the steps below. (If you already have accounts for Crypto I HIGHLY suggest you implement these immediately).
Computer Security
Despite frequent hacking most people are unaware of the dangers lurking when they are online. Anti-virus and firewalls help but they are not sufficient to be safe. Nothing is 100% secure when online so the objective is to reduce the opportunity for a hacker to steal your information.
The solutions below will depend on your situation but here is my advice in order of preference for anyone new to crypto and those wanting to operate a buy and hold cryptocurrency strategy.
- Use an Apple Macbook / Mac (RECOMMENDED) – add a VPN and anti-virus for increased protection.
- Purchase a BRAND NEW computer that has never been connected to the internet. Add anti-virus software and install a VPN immediately. The computer does not need to be expensive – you can find a suitable machine for $200-$400. This computer should ONLY be connected to the internet when you are making a crypto transaction online. The rest of the time the computer should be completely disconnected from the web. For this reason, this computer would typically NOT be home to a wallet that you might use for regular spending.
- If you are using a non-Apple computer or laptop then a VPN (virtual private network) is the best solution to hiding your presence and making it much less likely a hacker will be able to access your data.This option SHOULD work, but if you are dealing with any significant volume don’t cut-corners, buy yourself a new computer!
Recommended VPN’s
https://privateinternetaccess.com