SECURITY GUIDE

Ledger Live Security Best Practices

Protect your cryptocurrency assets with these essential security tips and best practices for Ledger Live.

The Golden Rules of Crypto Security

🔒

Never Share Your Recovery Phrase

Your 24-word recovery phrase is the master key. Ledger will NEVER ask for it. Anyone with this phrase can steal all your crypto.

🎯

Verify Everything on Device

Always check transaction details, addresses, and amounts on your Ledger device screen before confirming.

⚠️

Beware of Phishing Attacks

Only download Ledger Live from official sources. Double-check URLs and email addresses before clicking.

Recovery Phrase Protection

✅ DO: Secure Your Recovery Phrase

  • Write it down on the Recovery sheet provided with your Ledger device
  • Store it in a secure, fireproof location (safe, safety deposit box)
  • Consider using a Cryptosteel or similar metal backup for extra protection
  • Keep multiple copies in separate secure locations
  • Verify your backup by restoring it on your device during setup

❌ DON'T: Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Never store it digitally (no photos, emails, cloud storage, password managers)
  • Never share it with anyone, including Ledger support staff
  • Never enter it on any website or computer
  • Don't keep it in the same location as your Ledger device
  • Never laminate paper backups (can trap moisture and cause deterioration)

PIN Code Best Practices

🔢

Choose a Strong PIN

  • • Use 8 digits for maximum security
  • • Avoid sequential numbers (1234, 5678)
  • • Don't use birth dates or anniversaries
  • • Make it unique and memorable to you
🛡️

PIN Security Tips

  • • Enter PIN privately, shield from cameras
  • • Change PIN if you suspect it's compromised
  • • After 3 wrong attempts, device resets
  • • Never share your PIN with anyone

Safe Transaction Practices

📤Sending Crypto

  • 1.Always verify the recipient address on your Ledger screen
  • 2.Start with a small test transaction
  • 3.Double-check the entire address, not just first/last characters
  • 4.Be aware of address poisoning attacks
  • 5.Use address book feature in Ledger Live

📥Receiving Crypto

  • 1.Generate new receive address in Ledger Live
  • 2.Verify the address on your Ledger device screen
  • 3.Use QR codes when possible to avoid typos
  • 4.Make sure you're on the correct network (BTC, ETH, etc.)
  • 5.Keep transaction records for tax purposes

Recognize and Avoid Phishing

Common Phishing Tactics

📧

Fake Emails

Scammers send emails pretending to be from Ledger, asking for recovery phrases or directing to fake websites.

🌐

Fake Websites

Look-alike websites with similar URLs designed to steal your information.

💬

Fake Support

Scammers posing as Ledger support on social media or messaging apps.

📱

Fake Apps

Copycat apps on app stores designed to steal credentials.

How to Stay Safe

  • ✓ Always type ledger.com manually in your browser
  • ✓ Verify the official Ledger email domain (@ledger.com)
  • ✓ Never click links in unexpected emails
  • ✓ Ledger will NEVER ask for your recovery phrase
  • ✓ Only download Ledger Live from official sources
  • ✓ Enable 2FA on accounts where possible
  • ✓ Be skeptical of urgent messages or too-good-to-be-true offers

Additional Security Recommendations

🔄 Keep Everything Updated

Regularly update Ledger Live, device firmware, and your operating system for latest security patches.

🖥️ Secure Your Computer

Use antivirus software, avoid public WiFi for transactions, and keep your OS clean of malware.

📚 Stay Informed

Follow official Ledger channels for security updates and best practices. Knowledge is your best defense.

Ready to Use Ledger Live Safely?

Learn how to access your account securely

View Login Guide

© 2024 Ledger Live Guide. Educational resource only. Not affiliated with Ledger SAS.