Learn how Ledger hardware wallets provide industry-leading security for your cryptocurrency. Understand the technology, recognize threats, and follow best practices to keep your assets safe.
Your 24-word recovery phrase is the master key to all your crypto. Ledger will NEVER ask for it. Anyone who asks is a scammer. Store it offline and keep it secret.
Every Ledger device is built with multiple layers of protection, combining cutting-edge hardware security with thoughtful design to keep your assets safe from all attack vectors.
CC EAL5+ Certified
The same type of chip used in passports and credit cards. Your private keys are stored in a tamper-resistant environment that has never been successfully breached. This military-grade chip is designed to withstand sophisticated physical and digital attacks.
Never Exposed Online
Your private keys never leave the device. Unlike software wallets that expose keys to your computer, Ledger signs transactions internally. Even if your computer is compromised, your assets remain safe.
On-Device Confirmation
Every transaction requires physical button presses on your Ledger device. Hackers can't remotely approve transactions. You verify addresses directly on the device's screen, not on a potentially compromised computer.
Transparent & Auditable
Ledger's operating system (BOLOS) is open source, allowing security researchers worldwide to verify its integrity. Regular third-party security audits ensure no hidden vulnerabilities exist.
Complete Backup Solution
Your entire wallet is backed up with a 24-word recovery phrase. This BIP39 standard phrase can restore all your accounts on any compatible wallet. Write it down and store it offline—never digitally.
8-Digit Security
A wrong PIN entered three times wipes the device. Your assets remain safe because only the recovery phrase (which you control) can restore them. This protects against physical theft.
Understanding the technology behind cold storage security
Your cryptographic keys are generated and stored within the secure element chip. They never touch the internet or your computer's memory, making remote hacking impossible.
When you make a transaction, your computer sends the unsigned transaction to the Ledger. The device signs it internally using your private key and returns only the signed transaction.
Every transaction requires you to verify details on the device's secure screen and physically press buttons. Malware can't approve transactions—only you can.
Your 24-word phrase can restore all accounts on any compatible wallet. Even if you lose the device, your crypto is never lost as long as you have your recovery phrase.
Criminals constantly develop new ways to trick users into revealing their recovery phrases. Stay informed about these common attack vectors to protect yourself.
Scammers create counterfeit versions of Ledger Live in app stores. Always download only from ledger.com or official app stores, and verify the developer name.
NEVER enter your 24 words into any app or website
Fraudulent emails claiming to be from Ledger asking you to "verify" or "sync" your wallet. Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase via email.
Ledger will NEVER ask for your recovery phrase
Scammers pose as Ledger support on social media. Official support is only available through ledger.com. Never share sensitive information on social platforms.
Use ONLY official support at ledger.com
Some browser extensions claim to enhance crypto security but actually steal data. Only use verified, well-reviewed extensions from trusted sources.
Verify extensions before installation
Attackers send small amounts from addresses that look similar to yours, hoping you'll copy the wrong address. Always verify full addresses on your device.
Verify FULL addresses on your Ledger screen
Criminals convince your phone carrier to transfer your number to their device. Use authenticator apps instead of SMS for 2FA.
Use app-based 2FA, not SMS
Follow these guidelines to maximize the security of your cryptocurrency
Write your 24-word recovery phrase on the provided cards and store them in a secure, fireproof location. Consider using a metal backup for extra durability. Never store it digitally—no photos, no cloud storage, no email drafts.
Always buy directly from Ledger or authorized resellers. When you receive your device, check the anti-tamper seal. Run the authenticity check in Ledger Live. A genuine device will pass all verification steps.
Choose an 8-digit PIN that isn't based on personal information like birthdays. Avoid simple patterns. Your PIN is your first line of defense if the physical device is stolen.
Regular firmware updates patch security vulnerabilities and add new features. Update through Ledger Live only. Never install firmware from other sources or respond to emails asking you to update.
Always confirm transaction details on your Ledger's screen, not your computer. Verify the recipient address character by character. If something looks wrong, reject the transaction.
Advanced users can set up a 25th word (passphrase) for additional security. This creates a separate, hidden wallet. Even if someone obtains your 24 words, they won't access passphrase-protected accounts.
"Not your keys, not your coins" isn't just a saying—it's a fundamental truth of cryptocurrency. When you store assets on an exchange, you're trusting a third party with control of your funds.
Exchange hacks, bankruptcies, and account freezes have resulted in billions of dollars in losses. FTX, Mt. Gox, Celsius—the list of failed custodians grows every year.
With a hardware wallet, you hold the only keys to your crypto. No company can freeze your account, no hacker can drain your funds remotely, and no bankruptcy can affect your holdings. True financial sovereignty means true security.
Not Your Keys
Not Your Coins
Quick verification of your security setup
Don't wait until it's too late. Join millions of users who trust Ledger to protect their digital assets with hardware wallet security.