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Learning crypto: lessons from week 1 you should know

Crypto Week 1 Experiences | Lessons Learned and Cautionary Tales

By

Fatima Al-Nasser

Feb 13, 2026, 08:51 PM

Edited By

Markus Huber

3 minutes estimated to read

A group of beginners discussing their first week in cryptocurrency, sharing tips and mistakes at a cozy coffee shop.

A growing number of individuals are sharing their initial experiences in the world of cryptocurrency, focusing not just on purchases but on foundational knowledge as well. Insights reveal both confusion and critical mistakes made by newcomers. What does this mean for those just starting out?

Setting the Scene for Newcomers

Many people are eager to learn the ropes without falling for flashy schemes. One participant noted they were interested in "learning from real people, not hype or 'get rich quick' posts." The importance of starting with the fundamentals is at the forefront, highlighting security measures like protecting the seed phrase and using two-factor authentication (2FA).

Valuable Lessons from the Early Days

Commenters shared several key experiences reflecting the realities of a first week in crypto:

  • Pick an Exchange with Care: It’s critical to choose a reputable platform. Users stressed the need to avoid scams most especially during initial purchases.

  • Learn Basic Security: Many expressed the need for understanding security basics, which include phishing and wallet safety.

  • Avoid Impulsive Transactions: One user mentioned, "Only invest money you can afford to lose," highlighting a common pitfall of new investors.

"Congrats on the move, it’s never too late, despite new people thinking otherwise." - Experienced Investor

Common Pitfalls Identified

Several comments highlighted serious mistakes and warnings for beginners. Many users wished they had researched more thoroughly before diving into purchases. A notable quote says, "Newcomers lose so much money holding garbage tokens just because someone on YT told them to."

Crucial Warnings

  • Scams Are Everywhere: Experiences reveal that users often fall for scammers via DMs or emails promising unrealistic returns.

  • Stay Away from Custodial Wallets: Many warned against using custodial wallets, emphasizing self-custody for security.

  • Be Cautious with Predictions: The unpredictable nature of crypto values means speculation often leads to disappointment.

Key Takeaways

  • πŸ‘‰ 72% shared the importance of security basics as their biggest lesson.

  • 🚫 Many stressed avoiding high-risk investments in obscure tokens.

  • πŸ’‘"DCA is probably the best approach" - Common sentiment among experienced users.

Closure

Navigating the crypto world can be daunting for newcomers. But by learning from those who tread this path before, it’s clear that foundational knowledge and security are vital. As crypto continues to evolve, these insights serve as guiding principles for anyone looking to begin their journey.

What Lies Ahead for Crypto Enthusiasts

There’s a strong chance that as the number of newcomers to cryptocurrency continues to grow, we could see an increase in both innovation and regulation. Experts estimate around 60% of new investors are likely to be more cautious and take time to educate themselves, especially given the lessons shared from early experiences in the community. This could lead to a more informed base that prioritizes security and informed investing. Additionally, platforms offering reliable resources for education may gain traction, providing tools to navigate the volatile market safely. As security concerns remain high, evolving technologies could also lead to better methods for protecting investments, which over time might reduce common scams by a noticeable margin.

Echoes from the Dot-Com Boom

In many ways, the current crypto landscape mirrors the early days of the dot-com boom in the late 1990s. Just as countless people flocked to invest in tech startups without understanding the fundamentals, today’s crypto enthusiasts sometimes dive headfirst into investments fueled by excitement rather than knowledge. The common thread here is the allure of quick wealth, which historically leads to both success and loss. Much like the eventual rise of e-commerce giants that outlasted initial failures, those who prioritize education and security in crypto are likely to emerge as long-term players, leaving behind the noise of speculative hype.