1) What is crypto?
Imagine a big notebook that everyone can read. That notebook lists who owns what.
The notebook is called a blockchain. Crypto coins are just numbers in that notebook.
2) What is a wallet?
A wallet app is like a keychain for the blockchain.
It doesn’t “store coins” inside your phone. It stores the keys that let you control coins.
3) Seed phrase = master key
Your seed phrase (12/24 words) is the master key that can rebuild your wallet anywhere.
If someone gets it, they can take your funds. There’s no “chargeback”.
Good: write it on paper, store it safely.
Bad: screenshots, cloud notes, sending it in DMs.
4) Self-custody (why bother?)
If you keep crypto on an exchange, the exchange controls the keys. That’s convenient… until it isn’t.
Self-custody means you control the keys.
5) Wallets (self-custody)
You said you prefer imToken, so it’s first:
Tip: Always download wallets from the official site/app store listing. Fake wallet apps exist.
6) Tiny checklist (don’t get scammed)
- No one legit will DM you first to “help”.
- Never type seed phrase into random websites.
- Start with small amounts while learning.
- If a link looks weird, don’t click it. Type the URL yourself.
- Hardware wallets exist for bigger stacks (later).