[Source](https://media.istockphoto.com/photos/hacker-in-hoodie-using-laptop-computer-with-glowing-bitcoin-interface-picture-id1328041592?k=20&m=1328041592&s=612x612&w=0&h=cGJQJleWl9tD-9gK4gUGgcV2kpRIgFZ1HR9-rYxln2k=)
Generally, it is agreeable to say that the word cryptocurrency has many names underneath it. You have most possibly come across some of the most talked about types of crypto like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and obviously Litecoin. But if you have never heard of it, just stay calm and read through this article to get knowledge about it.
**About Cryptocurrencies**
Cryptocurrencies over the years have vast popularity for online payment and services. So, just before you think of taking a decision to convert your dollars, pounds, or even Naira, you need a keen knowledge about how cryptocurrency works, whether is it worth it, the risk involved in it and definitely how you can protect your investment and trading.
A cryptocurrency is a type of virtual money. It serves as both a virtual currency and an accounting system. It is very important you have a cryptocurrency wallet in order to use cryptocurrencies.
These wallets can be software that is downloaded to your PC, mobile device, or the cloud. Your encryption keys, which verify your identity and connect to your cryptocurrency, are kept in the wallets. This might get too technical at some point but paying attention closely is what is required of you for better understanding.
**Are There Risks in Cryptocurrency?**
Has said in the earlier part of this article, knowing the risks in crypto is key if you what to dive into it. Since cryptocurrencies are somewhat new, the market for them is subject to shift at any time.
Cryptocurrencies are difficult to convert into a kind of real currency because they are not regulated by banks or any other third party. Cryptocurrencies can also be hacked like any other technology asset because they are built on technology.
Finally, because you keep your cryptocurrency investments in a digital wallet if you cannot access your wallet, or you lose it, your entire cryptocurrency investment is lost. This might be very discouraging at this point, don't give up yet, keep reading.
**How do I Protect my Wallet?**
**1. Get Grounded in it**
Just like you can't settle with someone you don't know, you can't also invest in what you don't have good knowledge about because the possibility of you losing is very high. You must therefore ensure that you take your time to understand how it works and also read articles about it.
There is also good information on the webpage about the common types of crypto you know like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litcoin. When you take your time to digest all there is to know before diving into it, it keeps you on the safe side as you journey through cryptocurrency.
**2. Use a Reliable Wallet**
To be sincere, this will take a lot of research from your end but it is very important. This is where a good amount of your personal information regarded as the currency you will settle for will be saved.
With this, research is needed especially when you will be monitoring the happenings in it yourself.
Having read through this article, you should know the basis of cryptocurrency and how it works. However, you need more knowledge about it. Keep your fingers crossed as a will get more articles like this from me.
Thanks for reading through, let me know what your think in the comment section.
hiveblocks