A recent alert from software engineer Vincent Van Code has sparked discussions within the XRP community, raising important issues regarding the safety of cryptocurrency storage.
Risks of Internet Exposure for Private Keys
Vincent Van Code emphasized that private keys should never be accessible via the internet. He noted that if your private key is exposed or vulnerable, your assets may be at risk. "If your key is sent, copied, or stored, even on your PC, it is at risk," he stated in his post.
Issues with Hardware Wallets
Van Code also questioned the trust placed in hardware wallets like Ledger. He pointed out that the lack of open-source firmware and third-party audits raises doubts about the security of key storage. Although no confirmed breaches have occurred, users should proceed with caution.
Returning to Security: Air-Gapped Devices
Van Code recommends using air-gapped devices that are completely isolated from the internet. Only such devices provide maximum security for private key management. "Only air-gapped devices are bulletproof," he noted, emphasizing the importance of securely signing transactions.
Vincent Van Code's message highlights the need to reconsider convenience versus security in the crypto world, urging XRP holders to thoroughly review their asset storage methods.
