What it is
How it works
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Addresses: like email for money; you share these to receive funds.
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Keys: your private key proves you own the coins—lose it, lose access.
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Blockchain: a shared database that confirms, time-stamps, and locks in every transaction.
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Fees & speed: vary by network and congestion (some seconds, some minutes).
Wallet basics
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Custodial wallets (exchanges): easy to start, but a company holds your keys.
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Self-custody wallets: you hold the keys—more control, more responsibility.
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Backups: write down the seed phrase and store it safely, offline.
Risks to know
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Volatility: prices can swing fast.
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Scams & phishing: fake sites, giveaway traps, support impersonators.
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Theft: stealers and clipboard malware target wallets and seed phrases.
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Irreversible: blockchain transfers can’t be “charged back.”
Stay safe
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Verify URLs; use bookmarks for exchanges/wallets.
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Never type a seed phrase into a website or share it with “support.”
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Prefer a hardware wallet for serious amounts.
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Turn on MFA (app or security key) on exchanges; use unique passwords.
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Keep your device and browser updated; avoid cracked software.