Key Takeaways:

• Over $2.4 billion was stolen in the first half of 2025, already surpassing the total thefts of 2024.
• Common pitfalls like phishing and fake support do more harm than complex exploits.
• Implementing robust two-factor authentication, cautious signing, and separating hot and cold wallets drastically reduces risks.
• Having a solid recovery plan can transform a potential disaster into a minor setback.

Crypto fraud is escalating. The first half of 2025 saw security firms report over $2.4 billion in stolen assets across 300 incidents, surpassing last year’s figures. One significant incident, the Bybit breach attributed to North Korean entities, inflated these statistics but should not dominate the narrative.

Most losses arise from simpler traps: phishing links, harmful wallet approvals, and fraudulent support accounts.

The promising aspect is that improving your security doesn’t require expert knowledge. A few straightforward practices can significantly mitigate your risk. Here are seven essential habits for 2025:

1. Abandon SMS: Embrace Phishing-Resistant 2FA Everywhere

Using SMS codes for account security leaves vulnerabilities. SIM-swap attacks are common methods scammers use to siphon funds. Instead, utilize phishing-resistant two-factor authentication, like hardware security keys.

Start with critical logins such as email and exchanges. US cybersecurity agencies emphasize that this combats phishing tactics and “push-fatigue” scams.

Store backup codes securely and enable withdrawal allowlists.
Did you know? Phishing incidents targeting crypto users rose by 40% in early 2025, with counterfeit exchange platforms being a primary avenue.

2. Signature Practices: Combat Drainers and Toxic Approvals

Most losses are attributed to careless signing rather than advanced breaches. Wallet drainers entice users to give unlimited permissions or authenticate harmful transactions. Once signed, your funds can be repeatedly extracted.

The best strategy is to scrutinize every signature request. Experiment with decentralized applications using a burner wallet and revoke unjust approvals through tools like Revoke.cash.

3. Hot vs. Cold: Distinguish Your Spending and Savings

Consider wallets like bank accounts:

• A hot wallet for daily use and applications.
• A hardware wallet or multisig for secure long-term storage. Keeping private keys offline minimizes exposure to cyber threats.
  Did you know? In 2024, compromised private keys accounted for 43.8% of all stolen crypto funds.

4. Device and Browser Hygiene

Your technology setup is as vital as wallet security. Keep your OS, browser, and wallet applications updated, and prefer dedicated browsers for crypto transactions. Disable blind signing on hardware wallets to avoid risks from unverified transactions.

5. Confirm Before Sending: Addresses, Networks, Contracts

Ensure thorough checks of recipient addresses and networks before sending crypto. Conduct small test transactions for first-time transfers, especially for tokens or NFTs.

6. Defend Against Social Engineering: Romance, “Tasks,” Impersonation

Most significant scams hinge on social manipulation rather than technical flaws. Recognize red flags: legitimate support will never ask for your private keys or require payments via unconventional channels.

Did you know? The deposits into pig-butchering scams escalated by around 210% YoY in 2024.

7. Recovery Preparedness: Making Mistakes Manageable

Mistakes happen, but with proper preparation, you can mitigate their impact. Keep an offline recovery card with support contacts and trusted reporting tools. Gather transaction details in case you need to file a report.

In summary, implementing these seven habits—strong MFA, meticulous signing, wallet management, device hygiene, verification, awareness of social engineering, and a recovery strategy—can greatly reduce daily threats to your crypto assets. Start with improving your 2FA today and expand your security measures gradually.