Proactive tips to keep your wallet secure & funds safe

Security is a top priority at Blockchain. Our team have a variety of safeguards in place, and we’re dedicated to ensuring the platform is secure at all times. As a noncustodial wallet, it’s also equally important for us to explain best practices that leave you feeling confident about wallet security and being in complete control of your funds. So, to further boost your wallet’s resilience, new and experienced users alike can use the following proactive security tips.

Complete all three levels in our Security Center.

Our Security Center is designed to approach wallet security in three easy steps. To make sure your wallet is adequately protected, we strongly recommend you complete all three levels and avoid skipping any steps.

Check your progress by logging in and visiting the “Security Center” tab. It takes a matter of minutes to complete all three levels and go from Yellow to Green in no time!

Have strong passwords.

In general it’s good practice to use strong passwords across all of your wallets. A strong password is an essential first step in shielding yourself from any outside attacks.

What’s considered a strong password? It should be one that contains letters, numbers, symbols, and must be at least 16 characters long. Sometimes that can be hard to remember, so consider using a passphrase that’s unique and personal, for example: I_boughT_B@klavaWithBTC!

Not sure if you have a strong password? Last Week Tonight host John Oliver explains more in this video.

Set up two-factor authentication for logging in.

Two-factor authentication (also called 2FA or two-step verification) is a fantastic way to amplify your security. Your choice of 2FA method often comes down to preference, but we strongly recommend using a smartphone authentication application such as Google Authenticator over SMS text messages.

Aside from the inconvenience of SMS message delays, the risks of data interception and social engineering attempts on mobile carriers are real. Using a method like Google Authenticator alleviates those concerns by generating codes securely and instantly across multiple devices, without being associated with a specific phone number.

If your mobile device is ever misplaced, you can still access your wallet by completing a 2FA reset.

Make sure your verified email is properly secured.

If your verified email isn’t secured, it can pose an additional security risk to your wallet. Along with your Blockchain wallet, your email should also use a password that is unique and at least 16 characters long, coupled with Google Authenticator or a similar application for two-factor authentication. These extra layers create more protections for your wallet and make it harder for outsiders to access.

Store your wallet credentials safely (and don’t ever share them).

Your wallet id and password are what you need to log in. Sharing them with anyone is a major security risk, so keep them hidden safely for your eyes only (and to be on the safe side, change your password every 3–6 months).

Worried you might not remember to reset your password? Set a recurring calendar reminder so you won’t forget!

By using these proactive security tips we shared today, we hope you’ll feel confident about protecting your wallet and maintaining total control of your funds. Get started with a free wallet by signing up here.

Have any questions? Our Support Center is packed full of helpful resources, but you’re also welcome to reach out directly.

Originally published at https://blockchain-blog.ghost.io on September 8, 2017.