5 Tips to Stay Secure at a Crypto Conference

Attending a crypto conference can be an incredible experience, offering opportunities to network with industry leaders, learn about the latest developments in Web3, and connect with like-minded enthusiasts. 

While in general, crypto conferences are safe environments, they can present the opportunities for scammers, like impersonations, hacking, and phishing attempts. These risks don’t tend to show up at the event itself, but will appear online on platforms like X, or in the form of fake side events. 

5 Tips For Staying Secure at a Crypto Conference

To help you stay safe and make the most of your experience at a crypto conference, we’re sharing five essential tips for keeping your assets and information secure – so you can simply enjoy your conference!

1. Research Conference Details

Before attending a crypto event, check the conference’s reputation and legitimacy. Look for reviews, official websites, and announcements from credible sources. You’ll want to attend the crypto conferences that are well-known in the industry, like TOKEN2049.  

This is important to do because scammers sometimes create fake events to steal personal data or crypto. For a list of reputable crypto events, read our roundup of the Best Crypto Events to Attend in 2025.

2. Protect Your Digital Wallets

Before attending a crypto conference, ensure your wallets and accounts are secured with strong passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA). Use a hardware wallet or an offline solution for storing large amounts of crypto and only carry what you need for the event. 

Never share private keys, recovery phrases, or sensitive information, even with seemingly trusted individuals. Scammers can impersonate conference organizers or speakers, so double-check any requests for wallet access or funds.

And lastly, be cautious when connecting to public WiFi. It’s best to use a VPN to protect your connection. 

3. Beware of Fake Side Events

Crypto conferences often include an exciting calendar of side events, which are often hosted by Web3 brands. You’ll find lots of side events on platforms like Lu.Ma and Eventbrite, and you may find yourself being invited to events ahead of the conference. In some cases, these events may be fake.

Fake events present the risk of phishing links, as well as data-mining for personal information like passkeys. In some cases, a fake event may even prompt you to connect your wallet, which can lead to wallet draining. It’s important to check the legitimacy of events before clicking any links to register. 

4. Be Mindful of Networking Interactions

While conferences are excellent for meeting people, be wary of unsolicited investment advice, too-good-to-be-true offers, or “exclusive deals.” Scammers often prey on attendees by posing as influential figures or startup founders. Verify credentials before engaging deeply, and don’t rush into partnerships or investments. 

It’s also key to avoid scanning random QR codes or clicking on links shared casually, as these might lead to phishing scams or malware. And lastly, never bring critical devices like ledgers when travelling – it’s best to leave them secured, at home. 

5. Impersonation and Phishing on X

During crypto conferences, there can be heightened activity on X. While it’s exciting to participate in the online chatter, it’s important to beware of impersonation and phishing. 

Scammers frequently create fake accounts posing as crypto influencers, projects, or customer support, often offering “airdrops,” “giveaways,” or urgent help to lure victims. Clicking malicious links or sharing private information, like wallet keys or recovery phrases, can result in irreversible loss of your crypto assets. 

Always verify accounts by checking usernames, profile history, and official website links. Be skeptical of unsolicited DMs or offers that sound too good to be true. In crypto, staying cautious ensures your digital assets remain secure.

Final Thoughts: Enjoying Crypto Conferences – Safely

Attending a crypto conference is an enriching experience. To make the most of it, you’ll want to do your research, safeguard your digital wallets, be wary of fake side events, exercise caution while networking, and stay vigilant on platforms like X.

By following these tips and practicing general Web3 security, you can enjoy the event to its fullest while keeping your assets and personal information safe.

Crypto conferences are all about innovation, connection, and discovery—don’t let security risks hold you back from embracing the excitement. Stay informed, stay cautious, and make the most of your crypto journey!

Are you ready to protect your brand and community? Book a ChainPatrol demo to learn how we can help.