A security audit reviews your crypto setup to identify vulnerabilities. Doing one regularly helps catch problems before they’re exploited.
Audit Frequency
| Check | Frequency |
|---|
| Quick scan | Monthly |
| Full audit | Every 3-6 months |
| After a security incident | Immediately |
| After adding new assets | As needed |
Step 1: Wallet Security
| Check | Pass/Fail |
|---|
| Hardware wallet firmware up to date | |
| Seed phrase stored offline (metal or paper) | |
| Seed phrase not typed on any device | |
| Passphrase (25th word) enabled | |
| Multiple backup locations | |
| Recovery process tested | |
Step 2: Exchange Security
| Check | Pass/Fail |
|---|
| 2FA enabled (authenticator app, not SMS) | |
| Strong, unique password | |
| Withdrawal address whitelisting enabled | |
| Login alerts enabled | |
| Session management reviewed | |
| API keys limited and permissioned | |
| No unused API keys | |
Step 3: Device Security
| Check | Pass/Fail |
|---|
| OS and apps up to date | |
| Antivirus/anti-malware installed and running | |
| No sideloaded or unknown apps | |
| Screen lock enabled (PIN/biometric) | |
| Firewall enabled | |
| No rooted/jailbroken devices used for crypto | |
| Separate device for large holdings | |
Step 4: Network Security
| Check | Pass/Fail |
|---|
| VPN used on public WiFi | |
| Home WiFi secured (WPA2/3) | |
| No public WiFi for transactions | |
| Router firmware up to date | |
| DNS set to secure provider | |
Step 5: Account Security
| Check | Pass/Fail |
|---|
| All crypto-related accounts have 2FA | |
| 2FA backup codes stored securely | |
| No reused passwords | |
| Password manager used | |
| Email account has 2FA | |
| Recovery email/phone verified | |
Step 6: DeFi Security
| Check | Pass/Fail |
|---|
| Token approvals reviewed on Revoke.cash | |
| No infinite approvals | |
| Burner wallet used for new dApps | |
| Smart contract audits checked | |
| Only official dApp URLs used | |
Step 7: Communication Security
| Check | Pass/Fail |
|---|
| Direct messages from strangers ignored | |
| No holdings shared publicly | |
| Official support channels identified | |
| Social media accounts secured | |
Creating an Action Plan
| Issue Found | Priority | Action |
|---|
| Missing 2FA | Critical | Enable immediately |
| Seed phrase stored digitally | Critical | Move to offline storage |
| Outdated firmware | High | Update |
| Reused passwords | High | Change all |
| Unknown token approvals | Medium | Revoke |
Bottom Line
A security audit reviews every aspect of your crypto setup. Check wallets, exchanges, devices, accounts, and DeFi approvals. Run a full audit every 3-6 months. Fix critical issues (missing 2FA, digital seed phrase storage) immediately. Use a burner wallet for new dApps. Regular audits prevent the most common causes of crypto loss.
This content is for educational purposes only. Not financial advice. Do your own research before investing.