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Cryptocurrency is a broad term for digital assets generated, issued, or transferred using a blockchain or similar distributed-ledger network. The term does not describe one uniform product: assets, networks, legal treatment, and risks can differ. A wallet manages the keys used to access and authorize transactions; it does not hold the assets themselves.
What is cryptocurrency?
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission describes a crypto asset as an asset generated, issued, or transferred using a blockchain or similar distributed-ledger network. A blockchain is one type of distributed ledger: a shared record maintained across a network of computers. Cryptocurrency is often used as an umbrella term, but assets built on these networks can have different designs and purposes. The label alone does not tell you how an asset works, what rights it provides, or what risks it carries.
How does cryptocurrency work?
In broad terms, a network records transactions in a shared ledger. A transaction is authorized using cryptographic keys associated with the asset, then handled according to that network’s rules. The exact process varies by network; not every crypto asset uses the same design or transaction mechanism.
To use an asset, a person needs a way to access the relevant keys and submit transactions, either by managing the keys directly or by using a third-party service that does so. The distinction between controlling your own keys and relying on a custodian matters: a custodian introduces dependence on that provider and its account security and operations.
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- Effortlessly build your crypto portfolio via the all in one Ledger Wallet app: buy, sell, send, receive, swap, stake and more across popular blockchains. 15,000+ coins & tokens in a single dashboard. Keep a close eye on the market. Compare service providers. Track performance. Get timely alerts. Build your portfolio with confidence.
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What is a crypto wallet?
A crypto wallet generally stores or manages the private keys or passcodes used to access assets and authorize transactions. The assets are recorded on the network, not inside the wallet. The SEC compares a private key to a password and a public key to an address others can use to send assets.
If you control the private key, you are responsible for protecting it. Losing the key may mean permanent loss of access. A third-party custodian may manage keys for you, but then you depend on that service; research a custodian before entrusting it with access.
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- Proven security at scale: Over 9 years and millions of cards issued with no known remote hacks, while military‑grade EAL6+ security keeps your private keys locked inside the chip. Your cryptocurrencies stay strongly protected from online attackers.
- Tap once to manage your entire crypto wallet across 90 blockchains - no USB cables or Bluetooth, no batteries, no setup. Access 14,100+ coins & tokens, DeFi, NFTs, and staking instantly from your phone
- Smart backup: Use your second Tangem Wallet as your Backup keys with end‑to‑end encryption; no more papers, pictures. If one card is lost, the remaining can still restore full access, with an optional seed phrase available for advanced users.
- Engineered to last up to 25 years: Waterproof (IP69K), shockproof and tested for extreme temperatures from −25°C to 50°C. A durable cold wallet with long‑term protection and independently audited security.
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- Never share a private key or seed phrase with someone who asks for it.
- Watch for phishing: deceptive messages or sites may try to trick you into revealing credentials or approving a transaction.
- Protect online accounts with strong, unique passwords and multifactor authentication where available.
What is the difference between a hot and cold wallet?
Hot and cold describe how a wallet connects to the internet. Neither removes every kind of risk, and a wallet’s connectivity does not affect the market price of an asset.
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|---|---|---|
| Internet connection | Connected to the internet | Typically a physical device kept offline |
| Cyber exposure | More exposed to online cyberthreats | Can reduce online exposure, but is not risk-free |
| Transaction convenience | Generally more convenient for access and transactions | May be less convenient to use |
| Key control and custody | Can be self-custodied or managed by a third party | Can be self-custodied or managed by a third party |
| Other risks | Online account compromise and other cyberthreats | Loss, damage, or theft of the device, as well as other operational risks |
A physical cold-wallet device is one self-custody option, not a requirement for understanding or using cryptocurrency. It may reduce online exposure, but it cannot protect against a falling asset price, a lost device, or every mistake involving keys and transactions.
Rank #3
- Proven security at scale: Over 9 years and millions of cards issued with no known remote hacks, while military‑grade EAL6+ security keeps your private keys locked inside the chip. Your cryptocurrencies stay strongly protected from online attackers.
- Tap once to manage your entire crypto wallet across 90 blockchains - no USB cables or Bluetooth, no batteries, no setup. Access 14,100+ coins & tokens, DeFi, NFTs, and staking instantly from your phone
- Smart backup: Use your second Tangem Wallet as your Backup keys with end‑to‑end encryption; no more papers, pictures. If one card is lost, the remaining can still restore full access, with an optional seed phrase available for advanced users.
- Engineered to last up to 25 years: Waterproof (IP69K), shockproof and tested for extreme temperatures from −25°C to 50°C. A durable cold wallet with long‑term protection and independently audited security.
- Trusted by 6 million users worldwide - buy, sell, swap, stake, and spend cryptocurrency directly. The secure offline storage wallet designed for how people actually use crypto wallets
Is cryptocurrency risky?
Yes. The risks depend on the particular asset, network, platform, and way you hold or use it. The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission warns that virtual-currency values can be volatile and advises people to research platforms and wallets. Crypto assets should not be assumed to be stable substitutes for government-issued currency, and a platform should not be assumed to have the protections of a bank.
- Price risk: asset values can fluctuate sharply, and you may lose money.
- Custody and security risk: a compromised account, exposed key, phishing attack, or lost key can put access at risk.
- Platform risk: relying on a service means relying on its security and operations; research it before using it.
- Derivatives risk: crypto-related derivatives can amplify losses, so their risks differ from simply holding an asset.
- Operational risk: a cold device can be lost, damaged, or stolen; offline storage does not eliminate every hazard.
How does U.S. regulation treat cryptocurrency?
On March 17, 2026, the SEC issued an interpretation addressing how federal securities laws apply to certain crypto assets and transactions, with CFTC participation. It does not establish that every crypto asset is—or is not—a security. Legal treatment depends on the facts and circumstances. The SEC bulletin presenting the guidance describes staff views and says it does not itself alter the law; this is a U.S.-focused overview, not a guide to other countries’ rules.
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- EAL5+ CERTIFIED SECURE ELEMENT + FINGERPRINT PROTECTION — Your private keys stay encrypted offline on a certified EAL5+ chip, the same security tier used in EMV bank cards. Built by DCENT, securing crypto since 2018. Fingerprint authentication adds a second layer no PIN-only wallet can match.
- 10,000+ ASSETS NATIVE ON 100+ BLOCKCHAINS — Hold Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Solana, Cardano, popular stablecoins (USDT, USDC), and NFTs in one wallet. No third-party apps, no fragmented setup — every supported asset works straight out of the box.
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