Cryptocurrency’s growth in popularity is now (finally!) being matched by its growth in accessibility.
Until recently, those looking to buy, sell, or trade cryptocurrency would have to go through the tedious process of getting set up on a cryptocurrency exchange; a process so unexpectedly cumbersome that it deterred many would-be investors.
Today, however, familiar money transfer services like Venmo, Cash App, and PayPal are starting to jump on the digital currency train. While this expansion of services is undoubtedly due to the increased demand for the option, it carries with it the benefit of removing barriers, thus opening up cryptocurrency to those who were always interested in dabbling with the digital trades but found the exchanges too complicated.
Mind you, the steps that these companies are taking can best be characterized as baby steps: out of the thousands that exist, Venmo and PayPal support only four types of cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and Bitcoin Cash), while Cash App only supports Bitcoin.
These are exactly the kinds of small steps that beginning investors should be taking, too. Anybody looking to purchase or trade cryptocurrency should, above all, ensure they know what they’re getting into before they put any money on the line. Here’s why:
Cryptocurrency is a virtual currency that’s secured by cryptography, usually based on blockchain technology, which makes it nearly impossible to counterfeit or double spend.
However, that does not make it immune to loss or theft.
Cryptocurrency transactions and storage can be vulnerable to hacking or security lapses, in the same way, regular bank transactions or accounts might be. Unlike a regular bank account or transaction, though, cryptocurrency is not protected by the types of consumer regulations you might be used to. If your Bitcoins are stolen, you may have no recourse to recover your investment.
Protecting Your Digital Investments
This higher level of risk means that those who choose to trade in cryptocurrency have a greater responsibility to:
- Follow best practices in researching their investments
- Familiarize themselves with the ins and outs of cryptocurrency trading
- Utilize cybersecurity training and security protocols that minimize the risk of fraud, loss, or accidents
Thus, the first step in profitably investing in cryptocurrency is not making the right purchase—it’s taking the time to educate yourself before you put any money on the line.
Potential investors should also consider the security of the exchange used for their purchases or trades. Ideally, information systems that make use of cryptocurrencies (such as exchanges, mobile and web applications, and storage solutions) should adhere to the Cryptocurrency Security Standards, a framework designed to complement existing information security standards with respect to cryptocurrencies.
They should also understand the pros and cons of using hot (online) wallets versus cold (hardware) wallets and take the time to learn about personal security practices that limit the risk of unauthorized access and theft.
While this might sound overwhelming, Petronella Technology Group (PTG) can help! We can quickly get you up to speed on foundational cryptocurrency knowledge with our Crash Course on Cryptocurrency where you’ll learn:
- Relevant crypto terms and definitions
- How to get set up securely
- How to select an exchange
- How to safely buy and sell crypto
We’ll arm you with the information you need to understand this sector, evaluate the right investment for you, and proceed with confidence.
Corporations and Cryptocurrency
On the business side, corporations also need to adopt a posture of heightened cyber vigilance when choosing to support the use of cryptocurrency. Without the proper training and safeguards in place, you’re opening the door for your funds to be hacked or hijacked, risking both financial and reputational damage.
Rather than jumping in and remediating security gaps later, companies should put policies and procedures in place to protect the integrity of cryptocurrency holdings and transactions before problems occur. As blockchain and cybersecurity experts, PTG is your go-to resource for adopting cryptocurrency safely and effectively into your business.
Whether you’re an individual on the point of investing in cryptocurrency or a company introducing the use of digital currency in your business environment, a diligent approach to security can minimize your exposure to costly trouble. PTG can help you understand what you need to know with expert, individualized advice on cryptocurrency security. Don’t wait to find out the hard way—contact us here now.
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INVESTMENT RISKS
There are risks associated with investing in securities. Investing in stocks, bonds, exchange traded funds, mutual funds, and money market funds involve risk of loss. Loss of principal is possible. Some high risk investments may use leverage, which will accentuate gains & losses. Foreign investing involves special risks, including a greater volatility and political, economic and currency risks and differences in accounting methods. A security’s or a firm’s past investment performance is not a guarantee or predictor of future investment performance. For more help securing your cryto investments, contact us here.
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