<img src="https://i.imgur.com/0B5rfWf.png" alt="Cryptocurrency Security" style="width: 100%;">

Most of us using Steem know some basics about how cryptocurrency works. Some of us even trade in Steem for fun or to make money. Many have no doubt invested a lot of time in cryptocurrency, but do we know how to properly secure our cryptocurrency accounts? Here's how.

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<h3>Generate strong password</h3>

The first and best thing you can do to secure your cryptocurrency accounts is to set a very strong password for your account. Thankfully, Steemit does so by default, but remember to follow this practice on other websites too! And remember to store the password securely, else it won't matter how strong the password is if a hacker can get it. Don't reuse it anywhere. Use a password manager (I've talked about password managers before in previous posts (scroll to last paragraph for links)).

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<h3>Beware of keyloggers and unsafe computers</h3>

Don't login to Steem or any other cryptocurrency account on someone else's computer, even if you do trust them. Their computer might have a keylogger or virus on it which could send your account details to a hacker.
Also beware of keyloggers and viruses on your own computer. Don't download any suspicious programs or "crack" and "hack" apps. Most are viruses. Regularly scan your computer with a good antivirus.

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<h3>Accepting and giving payments</h3>

Be careful of who you give cryptocurrency or money to convert into Bitcoin, USD, or some other currency. Only use websites and services that are either officially recognized by Steem (such as <a href="https://bittrex.com/">Bittrex</a>) or ones that many people you know have used. If you choose to use one which is a bit shady but offers better prices or conversion rates, then they might simply keep your money and not pay anything out.

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<h3>Watch our for mirror or "fake" Steem sites</h3>

These are called "phishing" sites, and most are there to steal your login details. Remember to check the link in your browser bar before logging in! If it's not an official Steem site, report it to Steem and leave the website. It's not worth the risk to login and "see what happens".

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<strong>Disclaimer:</strong> The advice in this post does not guarantee 100% security. However it will probably protect you from most attacks. I don't take any responsibility for any stolen/hacked accounts.

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<h6>Hello! I'm Humphrey, and I write posts and articles about technology. Check out my Online Security series: <a href="https://steemit.com/dox/@dhumphrey/online-security-how-to-protect-your-personal-information-online">You can find part one here</a> and <a href="https://steemit.com/security/@dhumphrey/online-security-how-to-evade-online-surveillance">part two here</a> and <a href="https://steemit.com/security/@dhumphrey/online-security-encryption-and-passwords"> part three here</a>. If you have any suggestions you'd like to make, feel free to comment it. Be sure to follow and upvote to stay up to date. Thanks!</h6>