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The platform checklist
Before you put money on any platform, run through these six questions. If the answer is "no" or "I do not know," stop and find a better option.
Check which registrations apply where you live
Check which regulators or registrations apply to the service. Registration alone does not prove that a platform is safe or legitimate — but no registration at all is a warning sign.
It offers real security basics
Two-factor authentication (2FA), address allowlisting, and proof-of-reserves are good signs. Avoid any platform that does not let you turn 2FA on.
It has been around for years
New apps with big promises and no track record can disappear quickly. A longer public history gives you more information to check.
Customer support actually answers
Try sending a support question before you deposit. If you cannot reach a human, imagine how hard it will be if your money gets stuck.
You can withdraw to your own wallet
A real exchange lets you send crypto to your own wallet. If withdrawals are blocked or delayed without reason, that is a warning sign.
Fees are shown clearly
Hidden fees can cost beginners money. Established platforms publish their trading, withdrawal and spread costs up front.
Beginner-friendly places to start
These are well-known, regulated platforms with a history of serving beginners. We do not earn money from these links today; if we ever add affiliate links, we will label them clearly and only recommend platforms we would suggest to a family member.
Coinbase
Beginner-friendlyVery beginner-friendly app, strong U.S. regulation, simple buy/sell, and good educational content. Fees are higher than advanced exchanges, but the interface is hard to mess up.
Best for: Your very first Bitcoin or Ethereum purchase.
Publicly traded U.S. company; has insurance for some cash balances.
Kraken
Beginner-friendlyLong track record, strong security record, and a clean beginner mode. Also offers more advanced tools later if you grow into them.
Best for: People who want an established platform with lower fees than Coinbase.
U.S.-based and regulated in several countries.
Gemini
Beginner-friendlyFounded with a compliance-first approach. Clean interface, insured hot wallet, and clear fee disclosures.
Best for: Users who want a regulated, security-focused experience.
Available in many U.S. states and several international markets.
Fidelity Crypto
Beginner-friendlyIf you already use Fidelity for retirement accounts, its crypto offering may feel familiar. You do not manage private keys yourself.
Best for: Traditional investors who want crypto inside a name they know.
Fidelity currently lists Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Solana and Fidelity Digital Dollar. Offerings can change.
Cash App Bitcoin
Beginner-friendlyThe simplest possible on-ramp. Buy Bitcoin with money from your Cash App balance in a few taps.
Best for: Someone who only wants a small amount of Bitcoin and already uses Cash App.
Only supports Bitcoin, not altcoins or meme coins.
Uphold
Beginner-friendlySimple one-screen buying, and it shows your fee before you confirm. Good if you want to buy small amounts and see exactly what you are paying.
Best for: Beginners who want a straightforward app and clear, real-time proof that customer funds are held.
Costs are built into the spread rather than a separate trading fee, so compare the final amount you receive.
Platform red flags that scream "scam"
If you see any of these, close the app and do not deposit anything. Real exchanges do not behave this way.
- ✕Promises of guaranteed returns or 'free' crypto for signing up.
- ✕A platform nobody has heard of, advertised by random messages or influencers.
- ✕You must deposit before you can withdraw, or withdrawals keep failing.
- ✕Customer support only exists through WhatsApp, Telegram, or Instagram DMs.
- ✕The app is not in the official Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- ✕You are pushed to recruit friends for bonuses or rewards.
Your first five moves
- 1Pick one platform from the list above and create an account using a strong, unique password.
- 2Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) with an authenticator app, not SMS if you can avoid it.
- 3Verify your identity if required — regulated exchanges ask for ID. That is normal.
- 4Buy a small amount you are completely comfortable losing, just to learn how it works.
- 5Practice sending a tiny amount to your own wallet, or leave it on the exchange while you learn more.
Get scam warnings while you are still chatting
Our free add-on for Chrome, Edge, Brave and Firefox highlights phrases like “guaranteed returns” or “pay a fee to withdraw” directly on WhatsApp Web, Telegram Web and any website. Everything runs in your browser — nothing is sent to us.