Set up your own wallet

For getting started, I recommend MetaMask because:

• it is easy to use,
• MetaMask is available in several versions – see the comparison:
  • as a browser extension on your computer
  • as an app on your smartphone
  • as a smartphone app together with a hardware wallet
• crypto can be bought or swapped in the app. Purchases go through partner services and incur fees. Buying through an exchange is cheaper in most cases.
• MetaMask can be connected directly to BscScan. This lets you interact with the blockchain yourself, without going through e.g. the AlpsCon website.

Only download MetaMask from the official App Store, Google Play Store or metamask.io – fake apps exist. Open the app and tap Create a new wallet.

Tap Use Secret Recovery Phrase. This gives you a recovery phrase of 12 words that lets you restore your wallet at any time on any device – independent of a Google, Apple or Telegram account.

Choose a strong password with at least 8 characters and tap Create password. The password only unlocks MetaMask on this device. It does not replace your recovery phrase.

Make sure nobody can see your screen, then tap Tap to reveal. Write the words down on paper in the correct order. No photo, no screenshot, no cloud. Never share them with anyone, not even someone claiming to be support. Then tap Continue. MetaMask will then ask you for some of the words to check that you wrote them down correctly. Do not skip this step with Remind me later. More on this under What to look out for.