Understanding Cryptocurrency Security
Cryptocurrency security is fundamentally different from traditional banking. With Pi Network, you are your own bank. This means you have complete control over your assets, but also complete responsibility for their security.
Key Principle: "Not Your Keys, Not Your Coins"
In cryptocurrency, whoever controls the private keys controls the funds. This is why protecting your passphrase is absolutely critical.
What is a Passphrase (Seed Phrase)?
Your passphrase is a series of 24 random words that serves as the master key to your Pi wallet. It's generated when you first create your wallet.
Example Passphrase Format:
apple forest mountain river cloud desk piano window garden bridge ocean sunset phone table music dragon crystal forest lamp shadow market window thunder valley
Critical Facts About Passphrases:
- It's irreplaceable: If you lose your passphrase and lose access to your device, your Pi is gone forever. There's no "forgot password" option.
- It grants full access: Anyone with your passphrase can access and transfer all your Pi.
- Order matters: The words must be in the exact order they were given to you.
- Case sensitivity: Write down the words exactly as shown.
- It's offline: Your passphrase is stored only on your device, not on Pi Network servers.
How to Safely Store Your Passphrase
✅ DO
- Write it down on paper immediately
- Store multiple copies in different secure physical locations
- Use a fireproof and waterproof safe
- Consider metal backup solutions for extreme durability
- Keep it private - tell no one where it's stored
- Test your backup by verifying you can read it
❌ DON'T
- Store it on your computer or phone
- Save it in cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.)
- Email it to yourself
- Take a screenshot or photo of it
- Store it in password managers
- Share it with anyone, including family
- Post it online for "safekeeping"
Account Security Best Practices
1. Strong Passwords
Create a unique, complex password for your Pi Network account:
- At least 12 characters long
- Mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols
- Not related to personal information
- Different from passwords used on other sites
2. Email Security
Your email is the gateway to your Pi account. Secure it:
- Use a strong, unique password
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)
- Regularly check for suspicious activity
- Don't use the same email for multiple crypto accounts
3. Device Security
- Keep your phone's OS updated
- Use biometric locks (fingerprint/face ID)
- Enable device encryption
- Install apps only from official app stores
- Use mobile security software
Common Security Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Sharing Sensitive Information
Never share your passphrase, private keys, or verification codes with anyone claiming to be support staff.
❌ Using Public WiFi
Avoid accessing your Pi wallet on public WiFi networks. If necessary, use a VPN.
❌ Clicking Suspicious Links
Don't click links in unsolicited messages claiming to be from Pi Network.
❌ Ignoring Updates
Keep the official Pi app and your device OS updated for security patches.