Categories
Cryptocurrencies

MyStar wallet Review: How Safe Is This Multi-Blockchain Crypto Wallet?

MyStar Wallet is a mobile phone-based crypto vault designed and developed by Stargram Global, a Korean IT company specializing in Blockchain and entertainment products. On the MyStarWallet website, the crypto vault app is described as a “Multipurpose asset management (and) one-stop platform” for all your cryptocurrency needs. The site further refers to the wallet as a digital asset management tool focused on helping you store, send/receive, and secure your cryptocurrencies.

Though MyStarWallet is still relatively new to the crypto world, it stacks a host of operational and security features that set it apart from the competition. For instance, it is built on the Ethereum Network, which means that it provides users with access to the decentralized network and such amenities as the Dapp browser and the app builder tools.

In this MyStarWallet review, we will be vetting these features by looking at its commitment to safety, outlining the setup by step guide on using the wallet app, and telling you its pros and cons.

MyStar Wallet Key features:

Mobile app: MyStarWallet is a mobile-based app vault. It can be downloaded from either the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

Multi-asset: My Start Wallet is also a multi-asset app vault. It hosts a significant number of cryptocurrencies and tokens, and that there is no limit to the number of private keys that you can store within the wallet.

Inbuilt exchange: MyStarwallet features an inbuilt crypto exchange where users can buy, sell, or exchange cryptocurrencies and tokens. The exchange is relatively secure, and transaction processing reliably fast.

Blockchain explorer: MyStarwallet also features the blockchain explorer that lets you keep tabs on the Ethereum network. It helps you monitor network events, news, important announcements like upcoming ICOs, and political and economic events or changes that may impact the crypto world.

Portfolio Tracker: Within the MyStarwallet app’s dashboard is the balance and transaction history tabs that help monitor your crypto activity. For instance, the history tab outlines your crypto inflows and outflows, and these go a long way in helping you create a crypto budget.

Address book: MyStarwallet also features an address book that integrates your phone’s contact list that simplifies how you send and receive Crypto. This effectively means that you can simply send Crypto to a contact address on your phone regardless of whether they have Mystarwallet installed or not.

Send Crypto via messenger: MyStar wallet also features a proprietary messaging platform, the Startalk Messenger platform that you can use to “Instantly send money while you talk.” This features messaging and video chatting and the remittance functionality that allows you to transfer cryptocurrencies and tokens via StarTalk.

Dapp browser: MyStarWallet integrates a Dapp browser, a decentralized browser that allows you to surf the web anonymously.

Create Tokens: In addition to the Dapp browser, MyStarWallet users now have access to the app builder tools that make it possible for them to create and successfully launch both decentralized token and ERC-20 tokens.

Mystarwallet security features

Password: Like most other mobile phone-based crypto wallet apps, MyStarWallet is password secured. The password deters unauthorized access to your private keys and serves as the crypto app encryption tool.

Recovery seed: When creating a user account on your MyStarWallet app, you will be presented with a 12-word backup seed. You will need this seed to recover lost private keys or restore the MyStarWallet on another device.

Two-factor authentication: Outbound transfers from the MyStarWallet app must be subjected to two-factor authentication. You have the option of adding your phone number when creating a user account for MyStarWallet that you can use to authorize outbound transfers or use the Authenticator apps.

How to set and activate the MyStar wallet

Step 1: Start by downloading the MystartWallet crypto app for your Android or iOS smartphone.

Step 2: Install and upon launching the app, click on the ‘Create a new wallet” icon

Step 3: Create a password for the wallet

Step 4: You will now receive the 12-word backup/recovery seed for the crypto wallet. Write it down on a piece of paper and keep it safe offline.

Step 5: Your wallet is now active and ready for use

How to add/receive Crypto into your MyStar wallet 

Step 1: Log in to your MyStarWallet app, and on the user dashboard, click on the ‘Receive’ tab.

Step 2: On the deposit window that pops up, copy your wallet address or the QR Code and forward it to the party sending you cryptos

Step 3: Wait for the deposit to reflect in your wallet.

How to send Crypto from your MyStar wallet

Step 1: Start by logging into the MyStarWallet app and clicking the “Send” icon on the user dashboard.

Step 2: If you have more than one types of cryptos stored in here, select the crypto coin you wish to send

Step 3: On the transfer window, key in the recipient’s wallet address and the number of coins/tokens you want to transfer

Step 4: Confirm the accuracy of the transaction details and authorize the transfer.

MyStar wallet ease of use

MyStarWallet is highly intuitive and very beginner-friendly. The processes of creating a user account are simple and quite straightforward. The user interface is very clean, with just a few carefully placed tabs that ensure you don’t need any expert help to teach you how to interact with the app. The processes of sending and receiving cryptos/tokens in and out of the wallet are also quite easy and straightforward.

MyStar wallet supported currencies and countries

MyStarWalet is eth-based and will only support Ethereum and such eth-network based tokens as the ERC-20 tokens.

MyStar wallet cost and fees

Downloading MyStar wallet, installing it on your phone, and storing cryptos and tokens therein is free. However, you will have to part with variable transaction processing fees (GAS) every time you wish to send cryptocurrencies and tokens from one wallet to another.

MyStar wallet customer support

You can always consult the MyStarWallet Blog or Wallet Guide sections of the wallet’s website to learn how to interact with the wallet app. This website also features an extensive range of video tutorials that outline everything related to MyStar, including the different troubleshooting techniques.

You may also want to reach out to the MyStarWallet customer support team by raising a support ticket, emailing them, or direct messaging them on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

What are the pros and cons of using MyStarWallet?

Pros:

  • It supports a wide range of eth-based cryptos and tokens
  • It is highly intuitive ad beginner-friendly
  • MyStarwallet is feature-rich and even integrates an inbuilt exchange
  • It makes it possible for users to send cryptos to a phone number or via Startalk messenger
  • It features a Dapp browser and Dapp builder that lets you create and launch ERC-20 tokens

Cons:

  • It only hosts basic security features
  • It will only support Eth-cryptos and tokens
  • It is not a regulated wallet

Comparing MyStar wallet with other multipurpose crypto wallets

MyStarWallet vs. eToro wallet 

Mystar and eToro are both multipurpose and multi-feature wallets that host a wide range of operational tools. And some of the common features hosted on both MyStar and eToro wallets include an inbuilt exchange and portfolio tracker. Both wallets are also beginner-friendly and feature highly intuitive user interfaces.

However, while eToro is a multi-blockchain wallet hosting cryptocurrencies built using different blockchains, MyStarWallet will only host eth-based altcoins. Further, eToro has a friendlier and highly responsive customer support team compared MyStarWallet. MyStarWallet nevertheless carries the day with the number of supported altcoins that include all ERC-20 tokens against eToro that will only support less than 20 popular cryptos. Moreover, they have made it possible for you to send Crypto to phone numbers and through messenger.

Verdict: Is MyStar wallet safe?

Well, the mobile crypto app has embraced several effective security and privacy measures around the vault aimed at keeping your private keys private and highly secure. These include securing the app with a password and enabling two-factor authentication, as well as providing you with a backup and recovery seed. However, we must mention that the online nature of the wallet plus the fact that it stores your keys in your phone, not cold storage, exposes it to such threats as hacking and malicious viruses.

Categories
Cryptocurrencies

Omni Wallet review 2020: How Safe is Omni Wallet?

On the web wallet website, this crypto storage vault is described as a web wallet dedicated to bridging the gap between “security, usability, and multi-currency support.” It is an open-source web wallet developed by OmniLayer Technology Company in 2013.  Originally referred to as Mastercoin, the Bitcoin-based protocol rebranded to Omni in 2016. Since then, Omniwallet’s development team has committed to the continued improvement of this multi-currency wallet’s features and functionalities that the team considers a work in progress.

On the Omniwallet website, this crypto vault is described as a protocol layer that is built on the Bitcoin blockchain. It is a custodial wallet that stores digital assets in highly secure company servers but also allows you to create personalized servers to host your private keys.

In this Omniwallet review, we want to determine if the wallet lives up to its security and usability promise. And to achieve this, we will detail its key features, the safety measures it has put in place, provide you with a step by step guide on how to use Omninwallet, and tell you everything you need to know about this hot wallet.

Omni Wallet key features:

Multicurrency support: Though it is built on the Bitcoin blockchain, Omniwallet is considered a multicurrency wallet that supports both Bitcoin and Omnilayer native tokens.

Built-in exchange: OmniLayer runs a decentralized crypto exchange that it has integrated on the Omniwlalet. It is fast in processing crypto transactions, maintains competitive transaction fees, and introduces wallet users to a wide range of cryptocurrencies, tokens, and stable coins.

Web-based: Omniwallet is purely web-based and compatible with virtually all popular browsers. Therefore, you don’t have to download or install crypto apps to access the wallet or interact with its services.

Own hosting: Omniwallet stores all the data, especially the private keys, in the highly secure OmniLayer servers. You nevertheless are free to create personalized servers like Amazon AWS that you can then use to host your private keys.

Omni Wallet security features:

Password: Like virtually all other cryptocurrency vaults, Omniwallet is secured with a wallet that you set when creating a user account. You will need it, alongside the wallet ID, to access the Omnilayer servers and interact with your private keys.

Open-sourced: According to Omniwlalet, everything about their wallet “is open source from the ground up.” Anyone can, therefore, view and critique their source code that is currently accessible on both the company website and GitHub repository.

Multifactor authentication: You can add a second and even a third layer of protection around your wallet using compatible platforms like Google Authenticator or email address to receive special codes that you can use to log in to the wallet.

Integrates Bitcoin armory: Bitcoin Armory is a specialized online Bitcoin wallet that stores your private keys in offline cold storage. Bitcoin armory also allows you to transact offline and only come online to broadcast the transaction.

Client-side encryption: The fact that Omniwlalet stores private keys on your behalf implies a lot of communication between the wallet and company servers. Client-side encryption here implies that communications between your Omni wallet and Omnilayer servers, as well as third-party systems, are encrypted before they leave your browser.

Hierarchically deterministic: By ensuring that the process of generating new wallet addresses is hierarchically deterministic, Omniwallet helps you mask your online crypto transactions by hiding your real wallet address, effectively throwing off crypto trackers.

Watch-only mode: When logging into your Omniwallet from an unsecured browser or compromised internet connections, you can opt to log in to its watch-only mode. This allows you to view crypto balances and crypto history but makes it impossible to view the private keys, alter the wallet settings, or transfer cryptos out.

How to activate/ setup the Omni Wallet

Step 1: Open the Omniwlalet.org website and click on the “Create Wallet” tab

Step 2: Create a unique password for the wallet and enter a valid email address

Step 3: You will receive your unique wallet ID in your email. You will need it together with the password to log in to your user account.

Step 4: Log in to the Omniwallet. Click on the three bars on the top left corner of the user dashboard, and under wallet options, select Backup to generate the backup for your wallet.

Step 5: You will be prompted to enter the wallet password for verification, after which you can download the wallet backup. Copy it to a USB stick or PC and store it safely offline.

Step 6: Your Omniwallet is now active and ready for use

How to add/ receive Crypto into Omni Wallet:

Step 1: Log in to your Omniwallet and click on the My Wallet tab.

Step 2: Use the My Address tab to see all the wallets hosted on the wallet.

Step 3:  Select the coin you want to receive to reveal the wallet address and QR code

Step 4: Copy either and forward them to the individuals sending you cryptocurrencies.

How to send crypto from Omni Wallet:

Step 1: Log in to your Omniwallet and click on the My Wallet tab.

Step 2: Use the My Address tab to see all the cryptocurrencies hosted on the wallet

Step 3: Click on the “Send” button at the far right of the user dashboard.

Step 4: On the “Send from” section, select the wallet address from whence to send the cryptos, then enter the recipient’s wallet address and the amount to send

Step 5: Confirm that the transaction details are correct and hit send.

Omni Wallet ease of use:

The process of creating a user account on Omniwallet is easy and straightforward. The wallet also maintains one of the cleanest, intuitive, and beginner-friendly user interfaces. The fact that it is a web wallet also means that it is easily accessible from virtually any browser and on the move.

The process of sending and receiving cryptocurrencies in and out of the wallet or backing up its contents is also easy and straightforward.

Omni Wallet supported currencies:

Omniwlalet will only support three cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin, Omni token, and Test Omni Token.

Omni Wallet cost and fees:

Omniwallet is free. However, you will be required to pay a small and highly variable transaction fee every time you send cryptos out to another wallet or exchange.

Omni Wallet customer support:

On the Omniwallet website is the FAQ section that hosts how-to guides for the wallet. It also highlights some of the common challenges faced by Omniwallet users and how to overcome them.

You will also find the ‘Contact Us’ page that provides users with the support email and hosts the wallet’s knowledge base. For technical queries, consider direct messaging Omniwallet’s customer support team on Facebook or Twitter.

What are the pros and cons of using the Omni Wallet?

Pros:

  • It is ultralight and doesn’t require you to download a node or app.
  • It is highly transparent as it embraces an open-sourced design.
  • It embraces such advanced crypto security features as client-side encryption and Bitcoin Armory.

Cons:

  • It stores private keys on your behalf.
  • It will only support a limited number of crypto.

Comparing Omni Wallet with other Custodial crypto wallets

Omni Wallet vs. eToro wallet

Omni and EeToro are similar because they both are custodial wallets, storing private keys and other sensitive data on your behalf. They have also integrated similar functional and security features, such as a decentralized exchange. They are also free and maintain very competitive transaction fees.

However, while Omniwallet is a Bitcoin-only crypto storage vault, eToro is more versatile and supports 100+ cryptos and tokens. Similarly, Omniwlallet’s customer support team may be considered a little lackluster and sluggish than the highly responsive team maintained by eToro.

Verdict: Is Omni Wallet safe?

The most significant blow to Omniwlalet’s claim of maintaining one of the most secure crypto wallets is that it is a web-wallet exposed to the inherent threats facing hot wallets. It has tried to address this challenge by introducing client-side encryption, self-hosted servers, and even the ultra-secure Bitcoin Armory.

Categories
Cryptocurrencies

BitPie Wallet Review: How Safe Is This Multi-Blockchain Wallet?

On the official Bitpie website, the crypto wallet app is described as an “industry-leading multi-blockchain wallet” devoted to client funds’ safety. Launched in 2015 by Bither – a blockchain technology company – Bitpie markets itself as an easy to use, highly secure, and inclusive crypto platform.

And in an attempt to live up to these claims, BitPie has embraced a host of security and operational features in the past few years. These include open-sourcing the wallet technology, supporting the widest range of blockchains, integrating a hardware wallet, and establishing a highly intuitive interface.

But have these measures been effective in guaranteeing the crypto wallet’s safety and ease of use? We answer this question and tell you everything you need to know about the BitPie crypto wallet app in this review.

BitPie key features:

Mobile wallet: BitPie is a mobile-only crypto wallet app available for Android and iOS smartphones.

Multi blockchain wallet: BitPie wallet describes itself as the most inclusive crypto vault, adding that it supports the most diverse types of blockchain mainnets in the world. It supports the Ethereum blockchain, Bitcoin blockchain, and its folks, EOS blockchain, and EOS based tokens, as well as all stable currencies.

Built-in exchange: You don’t have to leave the mobile crypto app to buy or exchange cryptocurrencies and tokens. BitPie wallet features an in-built exchange where you can buy and exchange cryptos at highly competitive rates.

Dapp Browser integrated: BitPie wallet app also features a DAPP page that hosts a DAPPs browser and crypto market news section. Here, you have access to real-time market news and all the popular DAPPs in virtually any niche. More importantly, the DAPP page provides you with tools necessary for creating your custom DAPP or crypto token.

Integrates hardware wallets: BitPie developers have also come up with the world’s first wearable hardware wallet referred to as BitHD. It is a wristwatch-like hardware wallet that stores your private keys offline, and you can easily pair to your BitPie mobile wallet app via Bluetooth.

Security and privacy features:

Password: BitPie, like most other app-based crypto wallets, has a multi-character password as its primary defense against unauthorized access.

Military-grade encryption: In addition to limiting the amount of personal data that BitPie can collect about its clients, the wallet is also highly encrypted. The encryption covers all the personal data held in a BitPie wallet, passwords, and private keys.

Non-custodial: BitPie crypto wallet app doesn’t store your cryptocoins on the company servers. Rather, these are highly encrypted and saved on your mobile phone – giving you absolute control over their use. And you can boost this privacy further by linking the BitPie crypto app with the BitPie hardware wallet.

Anti-fraud system: To curb crypto-related frauds and safeguard your private keys, BitPie subjects all its members to such anti-fraud procedures as KYC and AML in line with the set governmental regulations.

Recovery seed: When creating a user account on your BitPie mobile wallet app, you will be presented with a recovery seed. These random phrases come in handy when recovering lost private keys or restoring your wallet on a new smartphone.

How to set up and activate the BitPie Wallet

Step 1: Download the BitPie crypto mobile app from Google Play Store, Apple App Store, or the official BitPie website

Step 2: Install the wallet, and upon launch, click on ‘Create new wallet.’

Step 3: Complete the registration process by entering your email and creating a password

Step 4:  Follow the prompts to complete the verification process

Step 5: The wallet will provide you with a set of words that form the recovery seed. Write it down and keep it safe offline.

Step 6: Your account is now active and ready to use

How to add/receive coins to BitPie Wallet

Step 1: Log in to your BitPie crypto wallet account app, and on the user dashboard, select ‘Receive.’

Step 2: This reveals your wallet’s public address and QR code

Step 3: Copy either of these and forward it to the party sending you cash

Step 4:  Wait for the cryptos to reflect on your account

How to send crypto from BitPie Wallet

Step 1: Log in to your BitPie crypto wallet app, and on your user dashboard, select ‘Send.’

Step 2: If you are holding multiple cryptocurrencies, click on the cryptocoin you wish to send

Step 3: On the popup tab, enter the recipient’s wallet address and the number of coins you wish to send

Step 3: Confirm the accuracy of these transaction details and hit send

BitPie Wallet ease of use

BitPie crypto wallet has a straightforward onboarding process. The app is highly intuitive with easy and straightforward processes for sending and receiving cryptocurrencies. All these play a crucial role in making BitPie one of the most beginner-friendly crypto wallet apps. However, keep in mind that BitPie subjects all its platform users to AML and KYC verification procedures.

BitPie Wallet supported currencies and countries

BitPie mobile app is a multicurrency wallet implying that it supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies, including bitcoin and its folk currencies like Litecoin and Bitcoin Cash, Ethereum and its Ethereum Classic fork as well as all the ERC20 tokens. It also supports EOS altcoin, all the EOS-blockchain-based tokens, and all popular stable coins.

The wallet is also available in 100+ countries across the globe.

BitPie Wallet cost and fees

Downloading and installing the BitPie crypto wallet app is free. Similarly, you won’t be charged for storing your coins here.

However, you will be charged a network fee every time you initiate an outbound transaction to other crypto wallets or exchanges. The fees are nevertheless highly dynamic and let you decide how much you wish to pay for every transaction. Ideally, high transaction fees will always translate to faster transaction processing, while low fees lead to sluggish transaction processing speeds.

BitPie Wallet Customer support

BitPie crypto wallet also has a highly responsive customer support team. Most of the wallet information, including the setup process and common challenges facing BitPie users, is addressed on the website’s announcement section.

Both the BitPie website and crypto wallet app are multi-lingual and available in Mandarin, Japanese, and English.

You can also contact the team directly via email or direct message them via their official social media pages on Facebook, Telegram, Twitter, Reddit, and Weibo.

What are the pros and cons of using BitPie Wallet

Pros:

  • BitPie crypto wallet app is highly intuitive and beginner-friendly
  • The wallet is feature-rich supports a host of premium service, including an inbuilt exchange
  • Through the integrated DAPP browser, you have access to the most popular DAPPs and tools to create your own crypto tokens
  • BitPie has also embraced highly effective security measures that include military-grade encryption and an anti-fraud system
  • The reduce-by-fee transaction pricing model lets you determine the fee and processing speeds for each transaction

Cons:

  • The wallet uses a lot of phone storage and consumes a lot of internet data
  • It is a hot wallet and, therefore, exposed to inherent threats affecting hot wallets
  • Experienced crypto traders may consider BitPie wallet features too basic

Comparing BitPie Wallet to other multicurrency crypto wallets

BitPie Wallet vs. eToro

BitPie and eToro are both multi-blockchain wallets and support different types of blockchain networks. They are also highly intuitive, beginner-friendly, relatively secure, maintain highly responsive customer support, and host inbuilt crypto exchanges.

However, unlike eToro that will only support less than 20 cryptocurrencies, BitPie supports hundreds of cryptocurrencies, tokens, and stable coins. Additionally, while eToro stores private keys in their servers on behalf of clients, BitPie gives you absolute control over your digital assets.

Verdict: Is BitPie Wallet safe?

Well, BitPie has put in place several effective security measures aimed at safeguarding the integrity of your private keys. These include securing your account with a password, encrypting data stored therein, storing your passwords within the mobile device, and providing you with a recovery seed. We must, however, observe that the wallet ignores critical security features like the 2FA. These, plus its relatively low fees and annexed features like an inbuilt exchange, make it suitable for active traders and smallholder crypto investors.

Categories
Cryptocurrencies

Monerujo wallet Review: What Makes This Android Crypto Wallet App Unique?

Monerujo, the android wallet for Monero, is considered the first-ever open-sourced mobile app that Monero altcoin users can rely on to store and manage their XRM altcoins. And while it is not the official Monero smartphone app, it has been developed by Monero community experts. It also features prominently on the list of best wallet apps recommended by the Monero network developers.

But how safe is this Android-only mobile wallet app? We seek to answer this question and tell you everything you need to know about the Monerujo wallet in this review. We will look at its key operational features, security measures in place, and ease of use. Additionally, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on setting up, sending, or receiving XRM coins to your Monerujo wallet.

Monerujo key features:

Multi-account support: Monerujo is a multi-account crypto wallet. This implies that there is no limit to the number of user accounts and wallets addresses that you can create and host on the Monerujo wallet. More importantly, there is no limit to the number of XRM coins you can store in a Monerujo wallet.

Pay BTC addresses: You don’t have to leave your wallet or engage in lengthy and time-consuming XRM-BTC conversions to make payments on a BTC store. Monerujo currently allows you to pay into a Bitcoin address directly, without going through a crypto exchange.

Lightweight wallet app: Monerujo is a light wallet that doesn’t require you to download the full node blockchain into your phone. Rather, the wallet app uses remote nodes to synchronize the app functions with the Monero Blockchain. This ensures that the crypto wallet app doesn’t drain your phone’s storage, RAM, or battery life.

Integrates hardware wallet: Monerujo is a Monero-only wallet, but to expand the scope of the number of supported cryptos as well as its security features. Currently, Monerujo integrates Ledger Nano S that, in turn, supports over 1000 cryptocurrencies and tokens.

Security and privacy features:

Password encryption: Like most other crypto wallet apps, Monerujo is secured with a password that you set when installing and creating a user account. The password also serves as a security tool that is used by the wallet to encrypt all the user data stored therein – including private keys.

Open sourced: Monejuro is an open-sourced and community-led crypto project. Its source code is available on GitHub and is open for viewership, auditing, and critique by its users and the crypto community. This makes Monejuro one of the most transparent crypto wallet apps.

F-droid privacy: The Monero network and XRM coins take pride in guaranteeing your transactions’ security and transparency. And to achieve this and avoid leaving digital footprints when you download the wallet app from your Gmail-linked Google Play Store, Monejuro is now available on the ultra-private F-Droid app repository.

Hierarchically deterministic: The Monejuro crypto wallet app is also hierarchically deterministic. This implies that every time you initiate a crypto transaction, the wallet auto-generates a new public address, effectively masking your real address and throwing-off any would-be crypto trackers.

Non-custodial: Monejuro doesn’t store your private keys within the Monero Foundation servers. Instead, these are encrypted and stored within your smartphone, giving you absolute control over your private keys.

Recovery seed: When installing the crypto wallet app and creating a user account, you will be provided with a series of random phrases that form your recovery seed. The seed comes in handy when you are looking to recover private keys from a lost wallet.

How to set up and activate the Monerujo wallet

Step 1: Download the Monejuro crypto wallet app from Monejuro official website, Google Play Store GitHub, or the F-Droid mobile app repository.

Step 2: Install and launch the app. Click on ‘Create New Wallet’

Step 3: Create a unique username for the wallet

Step 4: Create a password for your wallet

Step 5: Click on ‘Make Me A Wallet Already’ to authorize the wallet to generate public and private wallet addresses.

Step 6: The phone screen will now display all the important wallet information, including its Public address, view key, and Spend key, wallet restore key and a mnemonic seed that comprises 25 random words. Write these words down and keep them safe offline.

Step 7: Click on the “I Have Noted The Mnemonic Seed” to complete the setup and access your wallet’s user dashboard.

How to add/receive coins to Monerujo wallet

Step 1: Log in to your Monerujo wallet, and on the user, dashboard click on the green ‘Receive’ button

Step 2: The wallet will display both the wallet address and QR code, copy either and forward and to the party sending you XRMs

Step 3: Wait for the funds to reflect in your wallet – may take up to 20 minutes.

How to send crypto from Monerujo wallet

Step 1: Log in to your Monerujo wallet app and click on the Orange ‘Give’ button

Step 2: The app will display a transaction page where you can enter the recipient’s wallet address, Payment ID (optional) and private note (optional)

Step 3: Enter the number of coins you wish to send. This can be expressed in the form of XRM altcoins or any of the supported fiat currencies.

Step 4: Check the accuracy of the transaction details and hit ‘Confirm.’

Monerujo wallet ease of use

Monerujo’s crypto wallet’s onboarding process is relatively straightforward. It doesn’t request personal information from the user when creating a wallet. The user dashboard is also easily navigable, and so is the process of sending and receiving XRMs into the wallet.

Monerujo wallet supported currencies and countries.

Monerujo is a Monero-first crypto wallet that is specially designed to store and help manage XRM coins. It, therefore, will only support Monero cryptocurrency.

Monerujo wallet cost and fees

Downloading and installing the Monerujo crypto wallet app is free. Plus, the wallet does not charge you for storing your Monero altcoins therein.

You will, however, be charged Monero network fees every time you initiate a transfer out. This fee is typically influenced by the level of anonymity you want to achieve with the transaction (the Ring Size) and the transaction processing speed. Typically, large ring size and high transaction priority levels translate to higher transaction fees and vice versa.

Monerujo wallet Customer support

Monerujo has a readily available and highly responsive customer support team. In addition, you can contact them by raising a support ticket on the Monejuro wallet website, sending them an email, or interacting with the development team via their respective handles on such social media platforms as Reddit, Telegram, or Twitter.

What are the pros and cons of using Monerujo wallet

Pros:

  • The open-sourced nature of the Monerujo crypto wallet guarantees maximum security and transparency.
  • Monerujo doesn’t collect or store any information that may be personally identifiable to you.
  • It is highly versatile and makes it possible to pay a Bitcoin address directly from a Monero wallet.
  • It is highly convenient as it is accessible on mobile platforms.

Cons:

  • Monerujo is Android only crypto wallet app
  • It will only support money crypto coins
  • It is unregulated

Comparing Monerujo wallet to other Monero specific wallets

Monerujo wallet vs. MyMonero

Monerujo and MyMonero are both lightweight wallets, specially designed to store Monero cryptocurrencies. They are to the extent that they will only support Monero altcoins, allow for anonymous user registration and transaction processing, and allow you to set the transaction fee.

But while Monerujo is an online-only wallet app, MyMonero is a cross-platform vault available as a web-wallet, desktop app, and iOS app. Monero, however, carries the day when it comes to compatibility with hardware wallets as it integrates ledger Nano S and its ability to pay into bitcoin addresses directly.

Verdict: Is the Monerujo wallet safe?

Well, Monerujo has embraced premium security and anonymity measures aimed at keeping your digital assets. For instance, it facilitates the execution of anonymous crypto transactions. It doesn’t collect or keep logs of a user’s private information. It is highly encrypted and also built on open-sourced technology.

These features, plus the fact that you can download the app on the highly anonymous F-Droid repository, make Monerujo one of the most secure crypto wallet apps. However, we must mention that being an online-based wallet, Monerujo is exposed to common challenges facing hot wallets – like phishing and hacking – especially since it doesn’t support 2FA. 

Categories
Cryptocurrencies

Bread Wallet Review: How Safe Is This Crypto Wallet App?

Bread Wallet started as a Bitcoin-only crypto wallet built on the iOS platform. Also known as BRD, Bread wallet was established and launched to the market by BREAD, a Switzerland-based technology company, in 2015. According to their website, the app is focused on privacy, the security of the private keys, and simplicity. In the past few years, the Bread wallet has been subjected to several upgrades that, among other things, ensured it increased the number of supported currencies and introduced the BRD android app.

This review will determine if the Bread wallet app is indeed the safest or the most intuitive crypto wallet app. And we hope to achieve this by highlighting its critical operational and security features, ease of use, and customer support level before comparing it with equally popular crypto wallets.

Key features:

Light mobile wallet: BRD is a lightweight mobile wallet that does not require you to download a full node blockchain into your phone.

SPV functionality: Bread Wallet also leverages the Simplified Payment Verification (SPV) technology to guarantee your Bitcoin transactions’ speedy yet safe execution. And it achieves this by establishing direct communication channels with the Blockchain.

Supports credit card purchases: While Bread Wallet doesn’t have an inbuilt exchange, it has made it possible for you to purchase the supported cryptocurrencies using a credit card. Recent updates to the wallet have also introduced several ways that you can use to buy crypto. These include purchases via bank transfers, in-person purchases at a Bitcoin ATM, and even crypto-dispensing convenience stores.

Multi-blockchain platform: At the time of launching the Bread wallet, it could only support the Bitcoin blockchain. However, several upgrades to the wallet have seen the wallet integrate more cryptocurrencies and their respective blockchain networks.

Security and privacy features:

Password and biometric support: Bread Wallet app embraces a multi-layered security structure. When installing the app, you are requested to set a 6-digit passcode to secure your wallet. You can also add such biometric security features as the Touch and Face ID that you can use to further secure your wallet.

Open source: The bread crypto wallet app is built on an open-sourced technology. This implies that anyone can view and audit its source code for the presence of malicious codes or security loopholes – making BRD one of the most transparent wallet apps available today.

Hierarchical deterministic: The wallet is also hierarchically deterministic, which goes a long way in guaranteeing the privacy of your transactions. For every transaction you initiate, the wallet will automatically generate a new public address, effectively masking your real wallet address and making it hard to track your crypto spending.

Non-custodial: BRD wallet app stores your private keys within your mobile device and not on the company servers – giving you absolute control over your digital assets.

Supports anonymous trading: One of the BRD Wallet’s key features is its commitment to privacy and support for anonymous trading. When installing the wallet and creating a user account, BRD does not ask for any name, email address, phone number, or personal information. It also doesn’t keep logs of your crypto transactions on their company servers.

Highly encrypted: The data stored within the BRD wallet, especially your passwords, private keys, and transaction history, is also highly encrypted.

How to set up and activate the Bread Wallet

Step 1: On your phone’s Google play store or Apple AppStore, search for and download Bread Wallet

Step 2: Install the app, and upon launching, click on ‘Create New Wallet.’

Step 3: Create a unique 6-digit passcode for the wallet

Step 4: The app will now provide you with 12 random words that form your recovery seed. Write them down and store them safely offline.

Step 5: Your wallet is active and ready to use

How to add/receive coins to Bread Wallet

Step 1: Log in to your wallet and on the user dashboard, click on the ‘Buy’ tab

Step 2: Choose the coin you wish to buy and your preferred payment method

Step 3: Fund your account, and the app will automatically convert the Fiat deposit into a digital asset.

Alternatively:

Step 1: Log in to your wallet and click the ‘Receive’ tab on the wallet dashboard

Step 2: The wallet will present you with a wallet address and QR Code. Copy either and forward it to the party sending you cryptos

Step 3: Wait for the funds to reflect on your wallet.

Note: In some countries, the Wallet app integrates a map that highlights the different Bitcoin ATMs available

How to send crypto from Bread Wallet

Step 1: Log in to your BRD wallet app and on the user dashboard, click on the ‘Send’ tab

Step 2: If you have multiple cryptos stored here, select the crypto you would like to send

Step 3: Enter the recipient’s wallet address or scan their QR code and then enter the number of coins you would like to send

Step 4: Confirm the accuracy of these transaction details, hit send, and enter your wallet password to authorize the transfer.

Bread Wallet ease of use

Bread Wallet has one of the easiest and straightforward onboarding processes. You only need to download the wallet and create a passcode to activate it. Unlike most other crypto wallet apps, BRD does not request for your personal information.

The processes of adding and sending cryptos in/out of the wallet are also easy. For instance, you have the option of funding your wallet app by depositing coins from other wallets/exchanges or making a purchase via your credit card.

These, plus the wallet’s highly intuitive user interface, make BRD a beginner-friendly crypto wallet app.

Bread Wallet supported currencies and countries

Bread started as a Bitcoin-only crypto wallet. However, in the past few years, it has expanded its range of supported cryptos to include Bitcoin Cash, Ethereum, Bread Coin, Stable coins like USDT and DAI, and all ERC-20 tokens.

Accepted Fiat currencies that you can use to but crypto in the app are USD, EUR, GBP, GBO, DKK, and CAD.

Bread Wallet cost and fees

You won’t be charged for downloading and installing or storing your digital assets in the BRD wallet app. You will, however, be charged a small blockchain network fee every time you wish to send cryptos to another wallet or exchange.

Bread Wallet Customer support

Bread Wallet has a readily available and one of the most responsive customer support teams. It starts with an elaborate FAQ section that addresses all the challenges faced by most BRD Wallet users.

Within the app is the live chat features that you can use to engage the BRD support and development team. You can also engage this team on the BRD social media channels on Telegram, Twitter, Reddit, and even Facebook.

Note that BRD Wallet’s rewards scheme also works closely with the support team where you get to unlock support perks depending on the number of BRD Tokens you hold. For instance, you can contact the support team via email or phone if you hold more than 2500 BRD tokens.

What are the pros and cons of using Bread Wallet

Pros:

  • The wallet supports anonymous crypto trading
  • It has embraced several security features aimed at limiting unauthorized access to your wallet
  • It is highly intuitive and beginner-friendly
  • Speeds up transaction processing by connecting directly to the respective blockchains

Cons:

  • It is an online wallet and, therefore, exposed to the inherent risks associated with hot wallets
  • One may consider the mobile crypto app to be too basic
  • It is an unregulated wallet

Comparing Bread Wallet to other multicurrency crypto wallets

Bread Wallet vs. eToro

Bread Wallet and eToro are both multicurrency crypto wallets. They also feature on the list of few wallets that support the purchase of cryptocurrencies using credit cards and bank transfers. More importantly, they have both embraced a multi-layered security approach towards securing the wallets.

But while eToro supports 10+ cryptocurrencies, BRD will only support Bitcoin and Ethereum blockchain-based cryptos. And while BRD may be considered more intuitive and easier to use, eToro carries the day when it comes to the number of integrated operational features – such as the eToro crypto exchange.

Verdict: Is Bread Wallet safe?

Well, the crypto wallet app has put in place several security measures that are aimed at keeping your private keys safe and your crypto transactions anonymous. Key among these is the inclusion of Biometric security features like Fingerprint and Face ID, user data encryption, and the wallet’s open-sourced nature. More importantly, the wallet does not, at any point, ask for information personally identifiable to you or keep logs of your crypto transactions.

Categories
Crypto Exchanges

Samourai Wallet Review 2020: Is This The Safest Bitcoin Software Wallet?

Samourai is a bitcoin-only crypto wallet app for android smartphones. It takes pride in incorporating the broadest range of security and privacy features on its mobile app. On their website, Samourai is described as a “modern wallet hand forged to keep your transactions private and identity masked.” It was created by privacy activists who describe it as the “Bitcoin wallet for the streets.” They also hail it as the wallet that “Bitcoin deserves.”

The wallet integrates more security and privacy features than the average Bitcoin storage app. But have these translated to making Samourai the safest Bitcoin wallet? Importantly, how have they impacted its effectiveness? In this Samourai review, we highlight and detail the wallet’s key operational, security, and privacy features before telling you if it really is the safest bitcoin wallet out there.

Samourai wallet key features:

  • Segwit support: Samourai was one of the earliest Bitcoin wallet apps to embrace the SegWit Bitcoin blockchain upgrade. The protocol upgrade has played a key role in pushing down the blockchain network transaction fees and speeding up transaction speeds.
  • SMS commands: You can also control the app remotely with SMS commands. Send SMS codes to the wallet to retrieve either the public address or wipe the data therein.
  • Android-based: Samourai wallet app is only available for smartphones that use the Android operating system. The app developers claim that Apple iOS doesn’t welcome most of the customizable privacy and anonymity features of the Samourai wallet.
  • Multi-account support: Samourai wallet will only host Bitcoins. Though it is not multi-sig, there is no limit to the number of user accounts you can create.
  • Bitcoin health monitoring: The Samourai wallet is regularly monitoring the blockchain network. It will alert you when transaction processing speeds are relatively low and inform you of the current miner fees.
  • Batch processing: You can aggregate multiple crypto transactions and send them out as one. This, plus the reduce-by-fee feature, play a key role in pushing down the bitcoin transaction fees.

Samourai wallet security features:

  • Passcode: A 5 to 8 digit passcode secures the mobile wallet app. To evade keyloggers and screen recording spy apps, its PIN screen is randomized during every login.
  • Open source: The Samourai wallet app technology is also open-sourced. Anyone can view and audit its transparency.
  • AES-256 encryption: Samourai wallet app uses the AES 256 encryption tool to encrypt all its data. This military-grade encryption applies to all data held within the app, especially your private keys and password. Interestingly, you can also encrypt your email communications with the Samourai customer support to avoid possible man-in-the-middle attacks.
  • Recovery seed: You will also be furnished with 12 random phrases when installing the wallet app. These form your wallet’s recovery seed and are needed to recover your private keys.
  • Tor and VPN support: You can also access your wallet app using an anonymous IP not tied to your location or phone. Similarly, you can also open the app while masking your IP Address with a VPN or Tor.
  • No address reuse: The Samourai bitcoin wallet app is hierarchically deterministic and will not use the same address twice. It auto-generates a new wallet address for each transaction. It also randomizes change outputs, making it impossible for crypto transaction trackers to link a crypto activity to your wallet.

How to set up a Samourai software wallet

Step 1: Search for the Samourai bitcoin wallet on your Google Play Store. Download and install the app. Alternatively, use the F-Droid repository to download the Samourai wallet APK if you don’t want Google to keep a record of the download.

Step 2: On launching the app, click on ‘Create Account,’

Step 3: You will be required to set up a 5 to 8 digit to secure the wallet.

Step 4: The app will provide you with the recovery seed. Write it down and keep it safe.

Step 5: The app installation process is now complete and you can now start using the Samourai wallet

How to add/receive bitcoins to your Samourai wallet

Step 1: Launch the wallet app and click on the ‘Receive’ tab

Step 2: Copy the wallet address and send it to the party sending you Bitcoins

Step 3: Wait for the Bitcoins to reflect on your app

How to send Bitcoin from your Samourai wallet

Step 1: Launch the wallet and click on the ‘Send’ tab

Step 2: Enter the recipient’s wallet address as well as the number of Bitcoins you want to send

Step 3: Chose the transaction fee level you would like to use in funding the transaction

Step 4: Confirm that the transaction details are correct and hit send

Samourai wallet ease of use

Setting up the Samourai Bitcoin wallet app is quick and straightforward. The wallet can also be considered simplistic and features a highly intuitive user interface. These make it easy to use for both expert and beginner bitcoin traders.

Supported cryptocurrencies

Samourai crypto wallet app is Bitcoin-specific and will only support the legacy cryptocurrency.

Samourai wallet cost and fees

Samourai Bitcoin wallet app is free to download. Further, you wouldn’t be charged to receive or store your bitcoins in the wallet.

Transfers out will, however, be subjected to both the bitcoin blockchain network fee that goes to miners and an additional transaction fee charged by Samourai. It, however, employs the reduce-by-fee protocol to help you customize the wallet transaction fees. This supports three fee levels: AUTO uses the smart fee detection algorithm to determine the best transaction charge. PRIORITY translates to higher fees for faster transaction processing while CUSTOM lets you set your own fee.

Some premium security and privacy features available on the platform are only available on a subscription basis. If you, for instance, wish to use the app’s Ricochet service, you will have to pay an additional $2.50. Similar privacy features like staggered delivery or opening a private payment channel will also attract additional charges. 

Samourai wallet customer support

Samourai has an elaborate FAQ page that addresses all the most common challenges faced by the app users. It also features guides on how to use and interact with the Bitcoin-first wallet app.

More personalized support can, however, be sought via live chat on the Samourai website. You can also contact the Samourai wallet customer support team by messaging them on their different social media platforms, including Twitter, Reddit, and Telegram.

What are the pros and cons of the Samourai Wallet?

Pros:

  • The Bitcoin wallet app integrates a wide range of both standard and premium security and privacy features
  • Samourai supports anonymous user registration and can also be accessed via VPN or TOR
  • The app is free and supports a dynamic transaction fee processing that allows for the customization of the blockchain network fees
  • Setting up the wallet app is easy and it also features a friendly interface
  • It is now possible to initiate private or offline bitcoin transaction when using Samourai wallet
  • Samourai has a highly responsive customer support team

Cons:

  • The wallet app will only support the blockchain cryptocurrency
  • Samourai is a hot wallet app and therefore exposed to inherent risks associated with a mobile app
  • The app charges extra fees every time you use premium security and privacy features
  • The app doesn’t have an inbuilt exchange and neither does it integrate third-party exchanges

Verdict: Is Samourai the safest Bitcoin wallet app?

Well, the Samourai bitcoin wallet app has embraced more security and privacy features than most other crypto wallet apps. It, for instance, is one of the few crypto wallet apps that support offline transactions. The app will also help you establish private channels that you can use to send Bitcoins outside the trackable blockchain network.

It also lives true to bitcoins primary goal of anonymity by supporting anonymous wallet use and access via VPN and TOR. These make it one of the most secure and most private bitcoin wallet app. The only downside to using the Samourai wallet app is that it is a hot wallet. 

Categories
Cryptocurrencies

Citowise Crypto Wallet Review: Features, Safety, Pros and Cons?

If you are looking for a free and secure cryptocurrency wallet/payment solution provider, consider Citowise. This multi-currency crypto wallet premiered as a free digital wallet software and supported various platforms that allow easy use of cryptocurrencies. Citowise is also regarded as very secure, providing a transparent payment method for e-commerce.

Citowise crypto wallet is designed to offer private and business customers an easy way to empower the mainstream adoption of cryptocurrency. It is beginner-friendly and requires no technical knowledge to operate. Simply download your wallet, set up your account, and begin using existing platforms to sell and purchase supported cryptocurrencies.

The wallet was launched back in 2016 with one mission in mind: to create a secure blockchain infrastructure and ensure ordinary users understand the technology. One of the founders fell victim to a crypto hack while the other wasn’t awarded deserved coins after participating in an ICO. The third founder encountered problems sending crypto to a relative—the three set their sight on creating a solution that covered these and more challenges crypto users face daily.

Key Features:

Multiplatform:

Citowise provides free crypto wallets for both Android and iOS platforms, which are the most popular phones in the market. It is also compatible with Linux and Mac platforms and provides full support for Ledger cold storages and TREZOR.

Export/backup:

You can export or backup your digital wallet, which is recommended for security purposes. To do this, open your Citowise wallet through your phone or PC and navigate to the Wallet screen. Click on the wallet and select Export from the menu that comes up. Follow the remaining prompts to finish exporting your wallet.

Import wallet:

You can import your wallet back to Citowise and continue from where you left. Go to your Citowise wallet and navigate to the Wallet screen. Click on the button with a + sign appearing on the bottom right corner and follow the remaining prompts to import your wallet.

Integrated exchange:

Citowise provides a user-friendly interface that allows you to convert one crypto to another within the wallet. You get to pick your preferred integrated exchange, and the platform supports quite a number. Citowise can also transfer all your ERC20 tokens out-of-the-box.

Buy Cryptocurrency:

Within the Citowise simple user interface, there’s a feature for purchasing cryptos at the lowest market prices, directly from the wallet. This complements the integrated exchanges you pick for your crypto transactions. You don’t need any technical knowledge about blockchain networks to buy cryptocurrencies.

ICO:

This section offers a unique experience for users that want to claim coins from ICO campaigns. It comes with its set of features and possibilities.

Security features:

i) Password: Citowise requires each wallet owner to use a strong password that is hard to guess. Without a strong password, people with access to your devices can export the wallet and access the funds using another device. You can use the recommended Citowise password or create one with a variety of characters.

ii) Encrypted channels: Data processed by Citowise use encrypted channels to prevent external breaches. This ensures transactions are secure and accurate. The platform uses the latest cryptography technologies and security algorithms to keep hackers at bay. No history of a breach has been reported since launch. SSL certificates and regular scans also add a layer of security.

iii) Ad-Hoc payments: Citowise dispenses payments on a discretionary basis, ensuring investor and trader confidence. Ad-Hoc payments also guarantee privacy. However, users must ensure safe practices to prevent others from accessing their details and passwords.

iv) Instant notifications: Users will get timely information for any changes that occur in the network, so you can react quickly in case of anything. You can also request a report on your statement for personal audits.

v) Encrypted hardware: The Citowise hardware wallet features the latest encryption technology to keep hackers at bay. All you need to do is set up a strong password for your account.

Citowise user-friendly interface:

Citowise employs advanced technologies to provide a sleek, user-friendly interface with all the features you need within a click’s reach. The simple design appeals to both new users and older folks with little to no background in crypto wallets. Wallet users have total monetary control and can enjoy fast transactions and customer service. The site also includes links to various resources with more insights regarding the wallet. The hardware wallet is also secured using advanced encryption and very easy to use.

Supported currencies and countries

Citowise supports numerous cryptocurrencies and tokens than most crypto wallets. The platform accommodates all the 55,000+ tokens compatible with ERC20 standards. The most popular coins include BTC, ETH, LTC, BCH, VEN, EOS, TRX, and OMG.

Citowise also supports more than 1000 ETC coins and is available as a mobile app. The platform has offered financial solutions for 23 million+ companies in over 200 countries. All countries in the Eurozone are supported, and the number of currencies keeps growing, so it is advisable to check the information on the official site.

Citowise cost and fees

Setting up your Citowise wallet won’t cost a cent as the platform is free. No fee is charged for installing the wallet or using any integrated feature. Citowise is generally considered one of the budget-friendly digital wallets and charge the lowest fees in the market. The platform also scans all exchanges to minimize transaction costs.

While Citowise is free to use, network miners that verify and confirm transactions have their fees based on the network, transaction volume, speed of confirmation, and other factors. For instance, if you want speedy transactions from a system known to provide swift confirmations, you may pay a higher fee. The networks also have other restrictions, including limits on maximum and minimum transactions.

Customer support

Citowise offers various customer support channels to assist users in navigating all challenges they encounter using the wallet. A resourceful FAQ section provides insights concerning common questions, and the contact tab allows you to send an email describing your issue. Response time is fast compared to other wallets, and you can also reach the support team via social networks.

Setting up the Citowise crypto wallet

Step 1: Download and Install the Citowise app

To use Citowise, you need to download and install the wallet on your device. Citowise comes as a mobile app you can install on Android and iOS platforms. Head to the respective stores (Google Play and App Store) to download the wallet. They are also available on the homepage.

Step 2: Set up the wallet

Once you have the app installed on your device, launch it to set up your wallet. Like most crypto wallets, Citowise will require a unique wallet name and password. Enter and follow the prompts to create a wallet. You will be asked to back up the wallet, but this is optional, and you can do it later. However, it takes less than a minute to complete the backup.

Step 3: Enjoy Citowise

Once created, your Citowise wallet is ready for use. You can buy/sell cryptocurrencies, send and receive funds, and enjoy all the functionalities provided in the app. Citowise gives you total monetary control, so there’s a lot you can do with your account.

How to send currencies with Citowise

Step 1: Launch your Citowise app and log in. Click on balance on the bottom of the screen to see how much crypto you have.

Step 2: Click on the crypto balance you have and then Send Payments. Clicking on the Send icon that’s beside the Balance icon will also take you to the same page.

Step 3: Choose the recipient of the funds you are sending. You can do this by clicking on a contact list, using a QR code, or typing the wallet URL. Click Proceed.

Step 4: Enter the amount you wish to transfer in the To Pay section and click Proceed.

Step 5: Check if everything is okay and click the blue Send Payment button to send cryptocurrency. If you entered the wrong amount or address, click the back arrow to correct before submitting it.

How to receive currencies with Citowise

Step 1: Launch your Citowise mobile app and log in. Click on the Request icon on the bottom of the screen.

Step 2: In the request payment window, enter the amount you want to receive. You can change the cryptocurrency by clicking on the small arrow beside the current crypto. Converter and Setup Hint buttons also offer extra functionality on the window. Fill the description section for the request and input the wallet URL (the wallet you are requesting payments from). You can also request using QR code or sharing your URL.

Step 3: Check if all details are correct and click on Request Payment to ask for funds. Once the request is sent, the recipient will get a prompt notification on their app, and funds are added automatically when they pay.

Citowise supported currencies

Citowise supports various cryptocurrencies, but you will only have a few options to choose from during the account setup. The popular currencies supported include:

  • Bitcoin
  • Litecoin
  • Ethereum Classic
  • Ether
  • Bitcoin Cash
  • POA
  • Citowise Token

The wallet also supported various fiat currencies, including the Dollar (Canadian, Australian, and the US), Euro, British Pound, Swiss Franc, Chinese Yuan, Japanese Yen, Indian Rupee, Korean Won, and Russian Ruble.

Buying and selling crypto with Citowise

Citowise allows users to buy and sell cryptocurrencies, taking advantage of the best rates in the market. To buy and sell crypto, simply click on the three-row lines appearing on the top right corner and select Buy/Sell Crypto. This will open a service page where you can choose the preferred option. Some providers buy crypto while others sell, so choose accordingly. Specify the amount you want to buy or sell and trigger the request following the prompts given. Ensure you select the correct currency before buying or selling crypto.

How does Citowise compare with other wallets?

Citowise vs. eToro

Both Citowise and eToro are great crypto wallets you can use to accomplish various transactions. Citowise offers a simple interface and navigation. They also provide impressive ICO campaigns. Concerning features and functionality, Citowise and eToro don’t reflect much difference. However, eToro supports 120 different cryptos, which is way above the seven options available on Citowise. The wallets are both secure and relatively cheap, compared to other top-rated options.

Citowise vs CoolWallet S

CoolWallet S is a premium crypto wallet with advanced security features. Like Citowise, a hardware wallet is available for interested users. This obviously comes at a fee, but you get to enjoy top-notch security. CoolWallet S supports 22 cryptocurrencies, which is still above Citowise. However, this is nothing compared to wallets such as Ledger Nano S, which supports more than 1000 cryptos.

Pros and Cons of Citowise crypto wallet

Pros

  • Free secure crypto wallet available for mobile users
  • No transaction charges or subscriptions
  • Participate in ICO campaigns
  • Send, receive, buy or sell crypto easily
  • Choose from a wide variety of exchanges
  • Supports FIAT currency and in-app conversions
  • User-friendly interface appealing to both beginner and experienced crypto-traders

Cons

  • Supports fewer cryptocurrencies than most wallets
  • Very few service providers in the Buy/Sell Crypto section
  • Only available for mobile platforms

Final words

Citowise is an excellent mobile wallet you can use to facilitate various transactions. It allows you to exchange and convert cryptocurrencies and permits buying and selling of the same. You can also access popular FIAT currencies, pay for goods and services, or request invoice payments.

As a payment method, Citowise is safe and convenient to use, boasting a sleek interface with beginner-friendly navigation. Every important feature is within a click’s reach, and the mobile app is light on your device. If you are looking for a reliable, secure mobile crypto wallet, Citowise is worth a try. However, the platform could do better with support for more cryptocurrencies. Currently, users can only access a few popular options.

Categories
Cryptocurrencies

Copay Bitcoin Wallet Review: How Does It Work And Is It Secure?

Copay was developed by BitPay Inc. and introduced to the crypto industry in 2015. Its aim? To provide Bitcoin traders and enthusiasts with a single wallet that gives them absolute control over their funds. It is free and developed using open-sourced technology and is highly versatile. Key features that make this crypto wallet highly unique include its versatility and support for multiple operating systems, the fact that it is Bitcoin-specific, light, and highly transparent.

In this Copay Bitcoin wallet review, we will be explaining these features in detail, highlighting its security features, its pros and cons, and comparing it with equally popular wallets. We will also provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to install and activate the wallet, as well as how to send and receive Bitcoin.

Here is the detailed Copay wallet review:

Copay wallet key features

i) OS compatibility: Copay wallet is highly versatile and compatible with virtually any operating system. There is both a desktop and mobile app version of the wallet that is now compatible with all popular operating systems, including Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS.

ii) Bitcoin-specific: Unlike most other wallets that host hundreds of cryptocurrencies and altcoins, Copay is Bitcoin-specific. This implies that you can only deposit Bitcoin and its hard fork Bitcoin Cash into your Copay Wallet.

iii) Multiple accounts: There is no limit to the number of Bitcoin and Bitcoin Cash addresses you can host on the Copay wallet. This means that, unlike most other wallets that will only host one wallet address for each cryptocurrency or altcoin, you can hold as many private keys as you wish on the Copay Wallet.

iv) Compatible with hardware wallets: Copay bitcoin wallet is also compatible with several highly-secure crypto wallets, including Trezor and Ledger Nano S.. Such integration ensures that you get to enjoy the security aspects of an offline hardware wallet and the convenience of a mobile app wallet.

Security Features 

Password:

Like any other cryptocurrency wallet, Copay is secured with a multi-character password. You get to set this password when installing the wallet.

Recovery seed:

During the Copay wallet installation and activation process, you will be provided with a 12-word recovery seed. Record it on a piece of paper and store it in a secure environment. Note that the seed will be needed to reset the wallet password or recover your private keys should you lose the device holding the wallet.

Hierarchically deterministic:

The Copay Bitcoin wallet is hierarchically deterministic. This means that the wallet automatically generates new public and private addresses for every transaction, which makes it hard for hackers and other third parties to track your Bitcoin transactions.

Bitcoin Payment Protocol (BIP):

This feature is designed to guide users when making payments and prevent sending cryptocurrency to the wrong address. Technically, addresses are just a long line of numbers and letters, and often crypto users get them wrong.  BIP ensures you are sending it to the right address by helping you verify the wallet address before sending bitcoins.

Open source:

A Copay Bitcoin wallet is developed on an open-sourced technology. This guarantees its transparency as it is subjected to a lot of scrutiny and vetting by the crypto and blockchain industry experts. That further enhances its security.

Multi-signature:

Copay wallet allows multiple users to use one wallet. You can think of it as a joint account where 2 of 3 parties must sign to authorize the execution of a transaction.

Copay bitcoin wallet ease of use

Copay Bitcoin wallet has one of the friendliest user interfaces. The wallet is also highly customizable and allows you to tweak such aspects as the background themes and wallet name. Both the desktop and mobile wallet apps are also multi-lingual and currently supports seven of the world’s most popular languages, including English, French, Latin, Bahasa, Portuguese, Russian, and Turkish.

In addition to the highly interactive user interface, the Copay Crypto wallet also keeps you up to date with your digital asset balances and spending. The wallet app will, for instance, send you push notifications about your crypto balances to your phone’s display. And every time you spend or transfer cryptocurrencies, the wallet automatically sends you transaction receipt on your email.

In the case of shared or group payments, Copay Bitcoin wallet will present you with an easy to understand proposal on how to split the pay.

The multi-wallet feature also comes in handy when budgeting as it lets you organize your crypto balances and allocate funds to different types of expenditures/savings. You can, for example, create a family savings wallet, personal expenses wallet, end-year vacation savings wallet, retirement savings wallet, or even the Birthday in Las Vegas wallet. This feature comes in handy for budget-conscious individuals looking to have better control over their financial life.

Supported currencies 

Interestingly, the Copay wallet is specially designed to only support Bitcoin and Bitcoin Cash. There, however, is no limit to the number of BTC or BCH private keys you can store in the wallet or the number of wallets (partitions) you can create on Copay.

If you wish to hold, trade, or invest in other Altcoins like Ripple, Ethereum, Litecoin, or Dogecoin without letting go of Copay Bitcoin wallet, we suggest that you acquire a Hardware wallet and integrate it with the Copay crypto mobile app.

Copay bitcoin wallet costs and fees

BCopay Bitcoin is free. You will not be charged when you download, install, or store coins into the crypto wallet app. You can download the app from both Android and iOS app stores, on the official BitPay website or GitHub.

You will nonetheless, be charged network transaction fees every time you transfer Bitcoins and Bitcoin Cash out. These charges will vary according to the transaction volume and are collected by network administrators and not Copay.

When transacting via the Copay Wallet, you also have the choice of determining the transaction fees charged per transaction. The wallet has the ‘Super Economy’ as well as the ‘Urgently’ payment options.

Like the name suggests, ‘Super Economy’ is denoted from friendly transaction fees for slow transactions while the ‘Urgently’ pay plan involves higher transaction fees for faster (near real-time) transaction processing.

Copay bitcoin wallet customer support

Copay Bitcoin Wallet’s customer supports starts with an elaborate explanation of everything you need to know about the wallet on GitHub. On this page, you will also have access to the wallet’s updated version of both desktop and mobile apps, guidance on how to use and interact with the wallet app, and also learn everything there is to know about Copay.

For more personalized assistance, contact the Copay Bitcoin wallet team through their official handles on the different social media platforms.

How to activate a Copay Wallet

Step 1: Go to the official website and click on “Get Copay.”

Depending on the platform you intend to use, the first step should be to register your details with the site.

Step 2: Choose the Copay App version.

After clicking on “Get Copay,” you will be automatically redirected to GitHub, where you can select your desired app to install. Select the most recent app that corresponds with your device (mobile or desktop OS) from the list and download it.

Step 3: Click “Get started” after the download process completes

This opens the “Copay Installers” that provide you with all the important information about your Copay Bitcoin Wallet. It also hosts the registration process that captures such basic data as your name and email address.

Step 4: Back up your 12-word seed phrase.

The installer will also provide you with 12 random phrases known as the recovery seed that backs up your wallet app. Write them down on a piece of paper and keep them safe. You will need them to reset the app password or recover your private keys.

Step 5: Verify that you have captured the seed words correctly.

Confirm that you have correctly captured the recovery seed phrases.

Step 6: Add Bitcoin/Bitcoin Cash and start transacting

Your Copay Bitcoin wallet is now set. You can now add Bitcoin and Bitcoin Cash crypto coins and start transacting.

How to add/receive Bitcoins to your Copay wallet

Step 1: Start by launching the app and clicking on the ‘Receive’ icon on the app dashboard. This will reveal your copay wallet address in the form of letters and a QR Code.

Step 2: Copy the wallet address and send it to the party from whom you wish to receive Bitcoins or have them scan your app’s QR code.

Step 3: Wait for the crypto to reflect on your wallet. How long the coins take to reflect largely depends on the state of the Bitcoin network.

How to send Bitcoin or Bitcoin Cash via your Copay bitcoin wallet

Step 1: Start by launching your Copay wallet app. Click on the send icon and chose the crypto you wish to send. (Note that the send icon will only appear if you enough crypto to transfer)

Step 2: Enter the fund recipient’s wallet address or scan their QR Code.

Step 3: Enter the amounts of Bitcoins or Bitcoin Cash you wish to send

Step 4: Confirm that the number of Bitcoins or Bitcoin Cash and the recipient’s wallet address are okay before hitting send.

Copay Wallet Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • It has a user-friendly interface with customizable background and wallet names
  • Features multi-signature settings and is hierarchically deterministic
  • It is built around an open-sourced and highly vetted blockchain technology
  • Copay wallet is highly versatile and compatible with different operating systems
  • The Copay wallet app can be linked to an external hardware wallet
  • Uses Bitcoin Payment Protocol (BIP) to protect users from sending funds to wrong addresses

Cons:

  • It uses third-party servers to access Bitcoin Network data
  • it only supports Bitcoin and Bitcoin Cash
  • The app doesn’t support more secure technologies like two-factor authentication

Copay Wallet vs. Other Wallets- How Does it Compare?

Copay wallet vs. eToro

When compared to such other online wallets as eToro, Copay carries the day because of its ease of use. The app is highly customizable and allows its users to create partitions (mini wallets) that promote budgeting. It also allows you to tweak the apps theme and background colors as well as change your wallet’s name.  Plus, while Copay will only support two crypto coins, there is no limit to the number of private keys or wallet addresses that Copay can hold.

However, unlike Copay, which only hosts two crypto assets, the eToro wallet app can hold up to 700 cryptocurrencies and tokens. One may also consider eToro relatively safer as it implements more security safeguards on the wallet like two-factor authentication or military-grade encryption. Moreover, the eToro wallet app has the backing of one of the most secure and most popular crypto trading platforms. The same cant be said of Copay’s backer – Bitpay.

Copay wallet vs. Ledger Nano S

Copay Wallet app boasts convenience, ease of use, and its free to acquire as its key strengths when compared to the Ledger Nano S hardware wallet. Unlike Ledger Nano that sells for around $60 and has a rather complicated installation process, Copay is free to download, install, and use. The fact that the app is installed on your phone and still accessible as a chrome browser extension makes it more convenient for regular transactions.

Unlike the Copay crypto app or software wallet, however, the Ledger Nano S hardware wallet is more secure and harder to breach. It stores your private keys offline and is, therefore, more secure against online hacks or viruses that wipe off phone or desktop data. Moreover, Ledger Nano supports more than 1,000 cryptocurrencies and tokens against the two hosted on Copay.

Final Verdict: Is Capay safe?

The Copay Bitcoin wallet is relatively safe and has instituted reasonable security safeguards against unauthorized access to your private keys. They have a password mechanism to prevent, encrypt all data held by the wallet, and provide you with a 12-word backup seed.

In addition to this level of security, we liked the convenience and the versatility of the wallet given that it is compatible with virtually all the popular operating systems and is available on the move via the Copay mobile app and online via the software wallet.

Categories
Cryptocurrencies

Coinapult Wallet Review: Features, Pros and Cons, Privacy, and Supported Currencies 

When we talk of crypto wallets with a highly sophisticated security system, Coinapult leads the pack. The wallet was established in 2011 and boasts a team of specialists dedicated to providing crypto enthusiasts with a secure and easy way to send or receive cryptocurrencies. 

In 2015, they teamed up with Crypto Capital, a licensed financial institution, to offer seamless transactions and facilitate the accessibility of Bitcoins across the globe. Headquartered in Panama City, Panama, one of the top features at Coinapult is its security. It integrates SSL-encryption and two-factor authentication, plus their wallets have the multi-signature feature, which significantly enhances its security. 

Coinapult is easy to use and integrates intuitive features such as Tender Wallet Bot (Telegram), which allows users to send funds to other users through the in-app chat. In this Coinwallet crypto wallet guide, we take an in-depth look into its features, pros and cons, privacy, and many more. However, before we get into details, let’s first explore some of its top features. 

Coinapult wallet features

Superb security: Security is the greatest concern at Coinapult. For this reason, the wallet integrates a couple of top-notch features, including enhanced protection from DDoS attackers and SSL encryption. It also features such advanced security features, email reports of logins, and many more.

OS compatibility: Coinapult is also compatible with almost any operating system, including API, Web Interface, Windows, iOS, and Android. All you need to do is install the app. 

Traditional currency support: Unlike the majority of crypto wallets, Coinapult integrates a couple of traditional currencies, including US Dollar (USD) and Euros (EUR).

Security features

Password encryption: Apart from an elastic multi-stage wallet strategy that ensures 80 to 90% of your funds are secure, Coinapult uses an additional password protection mode to secure its users’ funds.  

Cold storage: As an added security measure, users can store their crypto assets or data in a USB-like device in a highly secure offline environment. What’s more, all this data is stored under a multilayered security system under a registered “custodian.”

Offline configuration: The best thing about Coinapult is that its settings can be configured offline. It is possible to configure the most sensitive aspects of your wallet’s security without an internet connection. 

Coinapult Privacy

One of the main reasons why crypto enthusiasts seek the services of Coinapult is because it adheres to privacy. The wallet integrates numerous privacy features such as a 2-factor authentication and a white list option. Plus, 80-90% of their user’s funds are stored offline. 

Moreover, all its transactions are required to pass through an enhanced verification process that requires users to provide their PINs or passwords to access the wallet. Their keys are also stored in an exchange platform to calculate crypto index prices, generate dynamic bidding as well as asking prices depending on transaction classes.  

Supported currencies 

Coinapult prides itself as one of the most popular coins with quite a huge number of currencies in the market. What’s more, it supports both traditional and cryptocurrencies. Below is an insight on some of these coins:

  • Cryptocurrencies supported: Bitcoin (BTC), Litecoin (LTC), Ethereum, DASH, Bitcoin Cash,  and many more. 
  • Traditional currencies: Euros (EUR), US Dollar (USD), Sterling pound (GBP)

In addition to these currencies, Coinapult also offers Gold and Silver commodities trading. 

Setting up the Coinapult wallet

Coinapult maintains one the easiest and fastest method to transfer, send, and accept Bitcoin payments. Below is a detailed guide on how to go about setting up your wallet:

Step 1: Download and install Coinapult

The first step is to download Coinapult. You can find it from Google Play, iOS, macOS. Alternatively, if you are using a desktop platform, you can sign up at https://coinapult.com/signup to create a new account. 

Step 2: Create a new account 

Whether using a mobile or desktop platform, the first step is going to the website’s homepage and creating an account. Ensure that you enter the required credentials before going to the next step.

Step 3: Backup your recovery phrase

This is perhaps the most important step while setting up a new wallet at Coinapult. You will be required to backup your recovery phrase, preferably writing it down on a piece of paper.  

Step 4: Verify your email

After registering an account, you will be required to verify your email before your account can be activated.

Step 5: Choose your ideal currency at https://coinapult.com/locks/

After activating your account, it is imperative to ensure you choose a list of your ideal currencies. 

Step 6: Fill in the total amount you want to send or receive

Key-in the amount you wish to send or receive at the “lock amount” box before heading to the next step.

Step 7: Complete your transaction

After going through all the above steps, your account will be ready for use. You will have successfully sent funds to your desired address through an encrypted .zil domain. It is that simple. 

Note that for a transaction to be successful, the platform should show the resulting invoice of the other transacting party at the top right corner. For subsequent transactions, you are required to repeat these steps. Bear in mind that the quick and easy merchant setup does not include bank statement capabilities. 

How to Send Bitcoin to an Address via SMS

So, what if you don’t have internet access? You can still send funds to any address – as long as they are registered with Coinapult. Technically, the addition of this feature also means that you can send Bitcoin to anyone across the world, with or without the internet. 

The best thing about this feature is that if the recipient does not have an existing account, one is automatically created. They will receive a confirmation message that their Bitcoin has successfully been sent and stored in their wallet as well as instructions on how to withdraw these coins.

To use the SMS feature, however, you will need to key in certain commands.

First, you will need to sign in and add your phone number. Use the command “send” + recipient’s phone number + {amount of Bitcoins}. Below is an example of such a command:

You: send +57744433331.3456

Coinapult: Send 3.4995btc to 8885532221 and Respond “yes 1q2hj6” to confirm

You: yes 2r4hh4

Coinapult: Funds sent. Balance: 4.56btc

Wallet security 101

Now that you have successfully created your Coinapult wallet, there are several things you should take into consideration. These include:

  • Watch out for malicious malware on your PC: Some malware is capable of using vulnerabilities in your PC to access your private keys. Ensure you have installed a powerful antivirus to enhance your safety.
  • Keep your recovery phrase safe: Note that in case you lose your “word seed,” “recovery phrase,” or “root key,” it is impossible to access your account. 

Customer support

Coinapult takes pride in its exceptional support team. They provide their customers with real-time feedback via their email or live chat. What’s more, they offer a plethora of user-friendly guides as well as a detailed Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) section. 

Additionally, you can also contact them via their interactive social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn accounts. 

Coinapult Wallet Compared to Other Competitors

Coinapult is indeed one of the most secure crypto wallets with sophisticated security features. It integrates 2-factor authentication and has a centralized validation mode of transaction. Further, it is quite easy to send or receive funds to the crypto wallet. You can even send your coins via SMS, which makes it a better method for individuals without an internet connection as well as for on-the-move transactions. 

All you need to do is follow the prompts while sending SMS commands, and you’ll be good to go. What’s more, it also features some amazing features, such as sending Bitcoin via email or directly from the Telegram app. The ability to integrate these unique features makes it one of the best platforms in the market. 

Pros and Cons of Coinapult Wallet

Pros

  • Its security is top-notch
  • The registration process is quite easy and straightforward
  • It is open-source
  • 2-factor authentication
  • Multi-signature

Cons

  • One may consider their customer support sluggish

Final Verdict: Is Coinapult Wallet Worth Your Money? 

Although Coinapult is not the top-rated crypto wallet in the market, it has gained a reputation and features among the safest platforms. It would be the go-to option for crypto enthusiasts looking for a Bitcoin wallet that supports such traditional currencies as the US Dollar (USD) and Euro (EUR).