What a blockchain is
A blockchain is a shared ledger maintained by many computers. Transactions are grouped into blocks and linked together so past records are very hard to alter.
Wallets and keys
A wallet holds the private keys that control your coins. Whoever has the keys — or the seed phrase — controls the funds. Never share your seed phrase with anyone.
Custodial vs self-custody
Exchanges hold keys for you (convenient, but you rely on them). Self-custody wallets give you control and full responsibility. Hardware wallets add protection for larger amounts.
Common scams
- “Guaranteed” returns or giveaways that ask you to send crypto first
- Fake support agents asking for your seed phrase
- Romance and investment-group scams
- Look-alike websites and apps
Evaluate a project
Ask what problem it solves, who builds it, how tokens are distributed, whether the code is audited, and whether anyone uses it beyond speculation.
Taxes and records
In many countries, selling or trading crypto can be a taxable event. Keep records of every transaction.