Criticalities of using a secure crypto exchange platform for beginners

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  • Mt Gox was a cryptocurrency exchange platform in Japan that debuted in 2010. At the time, it was the largest crypto exchange and handled more than 70% of bitcoin transactions globally.
  • If a crypto exchange platform or any DeFi institution does not offer two-factor authentication, it’s usually an immediate red flag.
  • The most recent hack occurred on a cross-chain interoperability platform between Ethereum and Binance Smart Cain and Harmony blockchain, Horizon bridge.

It is often a misconception that cryptocurrency is a risk-filled venture, especially for those who do not understand its applicability. There have been attempts to educate and promote the crypto ecosystem in Africa, and many African countries have responded positively.

The African crypto space has grown exponentially, and many, despite crypto volatility, have adopted blockchain technology. Blockchain security is another risk aspect one should consider as beneficial as it is. Knowing the difference between a secure and insecure crypto exchange platform is crucial, especially in the Decentralized Finance world and the crypto ecosystem. Blockchain vulnerability is an issue most companies generally do not discuss.

Many individuals believe that blockchain security is unhackable with the current trend, but this is far from the truth. Below are some of the significant hacks experienced by insecure crypto exchange platforms.

First Major breach at Mt Gox

Mt Gox was a cryptocurrency exchange platform in Japan that debuted in 2010. At the time, it was the largest crypto exchange and handled more than 70% of bitcoin transactions globally. Their complete faith in their blockchain security and systems became their downfall as hackers targeted Mt Gox and stole over $8.75 million in bitcoin.

This was the first instance that revealed the blockchain vulnerability many had failed to see. Despite its attempts to improve its system, it still suffered further attacks in 2014, its most damaging system attack ever, where 850,000 bitcoins were worth $650 million.

The major flaw within their system was that they had not incorporated any version control software within their site’s source code, essentially allowing any programmer to overwrite the site’s source code.

Also Read, Ethereum 2.0 provides cheap and fast crypto mining techniques

They suffered numerous lawsuits since they could not refund all the bitcoin lost.

blockchain security
The crypto ecosystem has suffered a considerable loss due to blockchain vulnerabilities.[Photo/TheFintechTimes]

Upbit 

The South Korean cryptocurrency exchange platform, Upbit, rose to fame after its initial launch I n 2017. In 2018 its popularity had increased to become the world’s largest crypto exchange in daily exchange. However, this served as a catalyst that attracted potential cyber attacks, and as feared in 2019, its blockchain security suffered a massive hit. 

In a single transaction, the attacker could steal over 342,000 ETH(valued at $51 million). It was initially estimated to have been an inside job since the hacker could access their cold wallet from within the organization.

The attackers tried to cover their tracks by moving most of the ETH between wallets. This proved futile as the US Department of Justice managed to zero down on the criminals and apprehend them.

Binance 2019,

Binance is one of the largest crypto exchange platforms. It’s a big league in DeFi and cryptocurrency and has taken various strides to promote the crypto ecosystem in Africa. This, however, did not make it immune to blockchain vulnerabilities within its system that were undetectable at the time. 

In 2019, hackers withdrew 7000 bitcoins, estimated at $40 million. The hackers bypassed the blockchain security implemented by Binance and obtained vital information sets such as two-factor codes, API and other data. Binance suffered major lawsuits and had to reimburse all the lost money.

Horizon Bridge

The most recent hack occurred on a cross-chain interoperability platform between Ethereum and Binance Smart Cain and Harmony blockchain, Horizon bridge.

The notorious Lazarus group, a cybercrime organization, was able to cripple the crypto exchange platform’s blockchain security and access five security keys. These allowed the hackers to approve transactions siphoning assets within the various DeFi features of the company. 

These fundamental elements allowed the system to reach a consensus on transactions, a significant blockchain vulnerability. As a result, the system lost $100 million worth of digital currencies. However, the Harmony team expressed its apologies to its users and refunded all those affected.

Also Read, Africa’s cash app, BitSika, is striving to reach the top

There is still hope.

The main aim of this article is to educate you and expose you to the facts of the current crypto world. The above examples show that one must be careful where they trade, sell or mine cryptocurrency. There are plenty of crypto exchange platforms, but there are critical factors you have to check before storing your investments in them. Here are various factors you have to consider.

  • Use of HTTPS –  HTTPS is a secure website protocol displayed by a lock sign in the address bar. This should be the first feature you check when login into any crypto exchange platform. It generally prevents any third party from capturing, monitoring and altering your data within the web server.
  • A secure password – this is a small but significant detail that most users constantly overlook. This fact is not only a major blockchain vulnerability but affects the whole cyber world. A secure password saves a great deal and prevents hackers or even script kiddies from accessing your account through brute force.
  • Two-Factor authentication (2FA) – if a crypto exchange platform or any DeFi institution does not offer two-factor authentication, it’s usually an immediate red flag. 2FA means that the system requires two processes to validate your access. These typically involve using a password and another form of authentication. Always note that SMS authentication is the weakest form of 2FA, and most are advised not to use it. Always ensure that major companies such as Google Authentication are involved.
  • Cold storage –  Always ensure that any cryptocurrency uses cold wallets or vaults to store its digital assets. This adds a layer to its blockchain security, making it difficult for hackers to gain access. Only using hot wallets has been classified as a significant blockchain vulnerability, and you shouldn’t trust any exchange platform or DeFi institution using it.
  • Funds Insurance – most cryptocurrencies are still volatile and unregulated, so major DeFi institutions and exchange platforms within the crypto ecosystem always take the extra step of ensuring their funds against theft. This feature is crucial since it gives such platforms the capability to refund in case of any damages—those who don’t place a higher risk of losing their investments permanently.

Conclusion

The above factors are simply the essential aspects one should know when entering the world of cryptocurrency. Most individuals often focus on the kind and type of coin to invest in. However, also,o knowing where you’ll conduct the exchange is also a critical factor to consider

 

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Ken Mutuku
Ken Mutuku
Your Guide to the Future of Tech, Web3, and Digital Storytelling. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for concise communication, Ken Mutuku is your go-to professional for decoding the next wave of technological evolution. Whether through captivating videos, insightful articles, or engaging presentations, he masterfully crafts messages that deeply resonate with his audience, setting him apart in the digital landscape.
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