Short answer: For long-term savings, use a hardware wallet. For small daily spends, a software wallet is fine.

Hardware wallet — Pros

• Private keys offline (safer against malware)
• Physical confirmation for transactions
• Better for larger balances

Cons

• Costs money
• USB/Bluetooth needed; not as quick as a phone app

Software wallet — Pros

• Free and instant to set up
• Great for small, frequent payments

Cons

• Private keys on a connected device
• Higher risk if your phone/PC gets malware

Recommendation: keep long-term funds on Ledger/Trezor; keep small spending funds in a mobile wallet.

Crypto scams work because people are rushed, excited, or afraid.
The best defense is knowing the red flags.

Here are the 5 scams beginners fall for most:

1) “Support agent” asking for your seed phrase

No real company will ever ask for your 24 words.

If someone asks:

“Can you confirm your recovery phrase?”

It is 100% a scam.
Instantly block.

2) Fake wallet apps or fake websites

Scammers make lookalike websites like:

1. Write it by hand on the included cards; never type it into a computer/phone.
2. Make two copies and store them in separate safe locations.
3. Consider a metal backup (fire/water resistant) if your balance is larger.
4. Never take photos, never upload to cloud, and never share it with anyone.
5. Do a small test transaction first; confirm you can receive and send.

If anyone asks for your 24 words, it’s a scam.