Homie

This weekend, Bogotá was the meeting point for a key conversation between education, technology, and finance during MoneyCon, held at the Universidad de los Andes organized by the Mis Propias Finanzas team.

From the Binance Angels program, we actively support Binance's work in its mission to bring clear, responsible, and accessible education to universities and events, strengthening the knowledge of the fintech and crypto ecosystem in the region.

During the event, high-value workshops and educational spaces were developed, designed to accompany attendees from the first steps to a deeper understanding of the ecosystem:

Cryptocurrency offers financial freedom, borderless transactions, and full control over your assets. However, this freedom also comes with responsibility. Unlike traditional banking, there is no central authority to reverse fraudulent transactions or recover lost funds. This makes security one of the most critical aspects of crypto ownership.
Binance, one of the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges, continuously updates its platform with new security features designed to protect users. While these tools are powerful, they are only effective when used correctly. This guide explains Binance’s latest security features, best practices, and practical steps you can take to safeguard your funds.
1. Start with a Strong Password and 2FA
Use a Strong, Unique Password
Your password is the first line of defense. A weak or reused password can easily be cracked through brute-force attacks or data breaches from other platforms.
A strong password should:
Be at least 12–16 characters longContain a mix of uppercase and lowercase lettersInclude numbers and special charactersBe unique to Binance (never reuse passwords)
Avoid personal information such as your name, date of birth, or common phrases.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication adds an extra security layer by requiring a second form of verification. Even if someone steals your password, they won’t be able to access your account without your 2FA code.
Binance offers several 2FA options:
Authenticator apps (Google Authenticator, Authy, etc.)PasskeysSMS verification (less secure than authenticator apps)
For maximum protection, use an authenticator app or passkey instead of SMS.
⚠️ Important: Never share your 2FA codes with anyone. Binance will never ask you for them. Scammers may impersonate Binance support and request screenshots or screen-sharing—never comply.
2. Secure Your Email Account
Your email is the gateway to your Binance account. Password resets, withdrawal confirmations, and security alerts are all sent there.
To protect it:
Use a strong, unique password for your emailEnable 2FA on your email accountAvoid using the same email for multiple platformsConsider creating a dedicated email address just for Binance
If a hacker gains access to your email, they can reset your Binance password and take control of your account.
3. Activate Binance’s Built-In Security Tools
Binance provides several advanced tools that many users overlook.
Anti-Phishing Code
The anti-phishing code allows you to create a custom code that appears in all legitimate Binance emails. If an email claiming to be from Binance does not contain your code, it is likely a phishing attempt.
This simple feature can prevent you from falling victim to fake emails.
Withdrawal Address Whitelist
This feature restricts withdrawals to pre-approved wallet addresses only. Even if your account is compromised, funds cannot be withdrawn to a hacker’s address unless it is whitelisted.
This is especially useful for long-term investors who regularly withdraw to the same wallets.
Activity Monitoring and Login Logs
Binance keeps detailed logs of:
Login attemptsIP addressesDevice typesAccount actions
Review these logs regularly. If you notice suspicious logins or actions, act immediately.
4. Protect Your Devices
No security feature can save you if your device is compromised.
Use Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software
Install reliable antivirus and anti-malware software on all devices you use for crypto transactions. Regularly scan your system for threats.
Avoid:
Downloading cracked softwareClicking suspicious linksInstalling unverified browser extensions
Avoid Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured and can be monitored by attackers. Never log in to your Binance account on public networks.
If necessary, use a trusted VPN—but remember that a VPN is not a substitute for good security habits.
5. Keep API Keys Safe
API keys allow third-party apps and bots to interact with your Binance account. If leaked, they can be extremely dangerous.
Best practices:
Treat API keys like passwordsNever share themRemove unused or unnecessary API keysRestrict permissions (disable withdrawals if not needed)
If you don’t understand what an API key does, do not create one.
6. Learn to Spot Phishing and Scams
Scammers constantly evolve their tactics, but the fundamentals remain the same.
Binance Will Never:
Call you directlyMessage you on WhatsApp or social mediaAsk for your password or 2FA codesAsk you to send funds for “verification”
How to Stay Safe
Always check the website URL carefullyUse only the official Binance website or appAvoid clicking links from emails or messagesUse Binance Verify to confirm if communications are official
Even if a message looks professional, it can still be a scam. Spoofed emails and fake SMS messages are common.
7. What to Do If You Notice Suspicious Activity
If you detect anything unusual—such as unauthorized logins, password changes, withdrawals, or 2FA unbinding—act immediately.
Step 1: Disable Your Account
You can temporarily disable your Binance account from the official website or app. This prevents further unauthorized actions.
Step 2: Contact Official Support
Report the incident through Binance’s official customer support channel. Do not rely on social media or unofficial contacts.
Step 3: Secure Everything
Change your email and Binance passwordsRe-enable 2FAScan your devices for malwareRemove unknown API keysCheck your withdrawal whitelist
8. Understand Your Responsibility
Cryptocurrency exchanges provide tools and infrastructure, but users are responsible for protecting their accounts.
If your funds are stolen due to:
Weak passwordsShared credentialsFalling for phishing scamsPoor device security
There is often no way to reverse transactions.
Security is not a one-time setup—it’s an ongoing process.
9. Best Practices Checklist
Here’s a quick security checklist you can follow:
✅ Strong, unique password
✅ 2FA enabled (authenticator app preferred)
✅ Email secured with 2FA
✅ Anti-phishing code activated
✅ Withdrawal whitelist enabled
✅ Regular activity monitoring
✅ Antivirus and malware protection
✅ No public Wi-Fi usage
✅ API keys reviewed and restricted
✅ Awareness of phishing tactics
Conclusion
Protecting your crypto assets is not optional—it is essential. Binance offers a wide range of security features, but they only work if you use them properly.
By combining strong passwords, two-factor authentication, email security, device protection, and scam awareness, you drastically reduce the risk of losing your funds.
In crypto, you are your own bank. That means you are also your own security team. Take the time to set up these features today—it could save you from irreversible losses tomorrow.