13 Best Crypto Wallets in the UK 2023 – Safest Wallets Revealed

After buying crypto from an exchange or broker, most investors in the UK will store their tokens in a private wallet.

There are many different options in this regard, so this comparison guide reviews the 13 best crypto wallets in the UK.

Read on to select the best crypto wallet for safety, user-friendliness, features, fees, and more.

1. eToro – Overall Best Crypto Wallet for UK Investors

eToro is an FCA-regulated crypto broker that also offers the best crypto wallet for UK investors. Put simply, after buying crypto on eToro, the tokens are stored in the broker’s custodial wallet.

As such, there is no requirement to download or install any software. Moreover, eToro keeps the vast majority of client digital assets in cold storage. This ensures that the crypto tokens are kept away from live servers and thus – remote hacking attempts. The eToro web wallet is also the best option for beginners.

This is because eToro users can cash out their crypto tokens for pounds without leaving their account dashboard. As one of the best Bitcoin brokers UK, eToro also offers a mobile wallet app for investors that want more control over their crypto tokens. Available for both iOS and Android, the eToro wallet app comes with an ‘Unlosable Private Key’ feature.

eToro is one of the few crypto platforms that’s regulated by the FCA, making it one of the safest crypto wallets with the best user protection.

This helps the user recover access to the wallet if the login credentials are forgotten. Furthermore, the eToro wallet app is licensed by the GFSC. This adds even more protection for client funds. Irrespective of whether the web or mobile wallet is selected, eToro is the best place to store and buy Bitcoin in the UK.

For example, UK investors can open an account by depositing just $10 (about £8) and the broker accepts debit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers. In addition to Bitcoin, eToro supports more than 70 other digital currencies. This includes the likes of Shiba Inu, Dogecoin, Ethereum, BNB, Cardano, and Dash. Fees are also very competitive at eToro.

Not only is its web and mobile wallet free to use, but GBP deposits cost just 0.5%. Trading commissions on all supported coins amount to just 1%. eToro also offers copy trading tools, which enables UK investors to replicate the trades of an experienced trader. Smart portfolios are also supported. These are professionally managed portfolios that offer exposure to the broader crypto industry.

Cryptoassets are highly volatile and unregulated in most EU countries, Australia and the UK. No consumer protection. Tax on profits may apply. Your capital is at risk.

2. Coinbase – Large and Well Regulated User-Friendly Exchange With Self Custodial Wallet

Coinbase is one of the world’s oldest and most well-known exchanges, started all the way back in 2012 by Brian Armstrong. It’s a secure, regulated, and beginner-friendly exchange, with a large array of products and services for users.

The Coinbase Wallet has support for hundreds of thousands of tokens and decentralized applications, and is available as a mobile app, as well as a Chrome Browser extension (similar to how MetaMask operates as a Mozilla extension). This is a self-custodial wallet, meaning you will be responsible for storing your private keys securely.

Of course, you can also store your tokens through Coinbase. Coinbase has the highest levels of security in the industry with segregated client funds, cold storage tokens, and third-party insurance, as well as proof of reserves. It provides crime insurance and pass-through FDIC insurance on cash deposits.

You can link your Coinbase card to your Coinbase balance for convenience, which can be used in millions of locations worldwide. The card also offers 2 factor authentication and an instant freeze feature. You can switch which crypto you would prefer to use as a means of payment and track all transactions.   

Compliance and KYC procedures are strict with Coinbase, which have a long history of cooperation with regulatory authorities (as opposed to other exchanges, such as Kraken). Coinbase offers over 250 cryptos with a large suite of offerings.

Through a Coinbase One subscription, it’s possible to earn 10% APY on your crypto along with zero trading fees. There are services for institutions, businesses, individuals, developers, and traders. In the UK, Coinbase also provides faster payments and a large variety of withdrawal deposit options to its crypto wallets.

In terms of storing and sending crypto, Coinbase is an integrated ecosystem – whether you use the main account or the decentralized Coinbase Wallet. The mobile application is also very easy to use with a nice UI. The only real downside with Coinbase is the 3.99% fee for purchasing a crypto with a debit card. 

3. Kraken – High Speed Exchange With 200 Supported Cryptocurrencies & State Of The Art Security

Kraken is another highly regarded exchange that can be relied upon to keep funds secure. The platform places an emphasis on protecting user accounts with sophisticated security measures. They have earned the ISO/IEC 27001:2013 and SOC 2 Type 1 certifications, meaning they have met the highest standards in international security protocols.

Kraken uses a mix of hot and cold storage solutions, runs a bug bounty program, has a team of world-class developers testing the network regularly, has issued proof of reserves, and offers a wide variety of security features to clients (2FA, SSL encryption, PGP email, at rest encryption, in transit encryption, etc). It does not offer insurance to client accounts but is known for top security standards.

Kraken allows users to fund accounts in USD, EUR, CAD, GBP, AUD, or CHF. Accounts can also be funded with cryptocurrencies. The Kraken mobile application lets users fund their account in GBP, through credit card or PayPal. Kraken fees for direct purchases are not disclosed but are generally believed to be in the range of 2%, which is about half that of Coinbase. Trading fees on Kraken are 0 – 0.26% depending on the volume and account type.

Within the UK, Kraken operates locally as an FCA Registered Crypto Asset Firm  – Payward Ltd, FRN 928768 – under the Money Laundering Regulations. Payment processing times with Kraken are between 1 to 5 days. Kraken is known as a high-speed exchange, with features that are useful for advanced traders.

The platform is safe, regulated, and fast, but new investors might be a little overwhelmed and it does not have the usability of other crypto wallets, though its mobile application is excellent.

Unlike Coinbase, it does not offer a decentralized wallet to users. However, it provides 12 staking assets with up to 24% APY, more than nearly any other large exchange. 

4. OKX – Decentralized Wallet With DeFi Yields and NFTs

OKX is the best crypto wallet in the UK for those seeking noncustodial storage. Put simply, this means that the investor is the only person that has access to the wallet’s private keys. Therefore, the OKX wallet allows investors to retain full control over their crypto tokens.

The OKX wallet is accessible in two forms. First, investors that prefer using a desktop device can install the OKX wallet extension to Chrome or Firefox. Alternatively, the OKX wallet can also be downloaded as a mobile app for iOS and Android. In terms of supported tokens, the OKX wallet is compatible with other 30+ blockchain networks.

This includes everything from Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Binance Smart Chain to Algorand and Solana. As such, the OKX wallet supports thousands of crypto tokens. Additionally, OKX also offers one of the best crypto wallets in the UK for DeFi. This enables investors to earn interest on the crypto tokens stored in their OKX wallet. This is offered through savings accounts, staking, and more.

The OKX wallet also supports an NFT marketplace. This allows investors to buy, sell, trade, and store NFTs without leaving the wallet interface. The OKX wallet also offers access to hundreds of trading pairs. Commissions amount to just 0.1% per slide and UK investors can also deposit funds with a debit/credit card or e-wallet. Finally, OKX also offers a standard web wallet, but this is a custodial service.

5. Binance – Popular Crypto Wallet for Active UK Traders

Binance offers the best crypto wallet for UK traders. This is because Binance’s web wallet operated alongside its crypto exchange – which supports hundreds of pairs. For example, let’s suppose that a trade exchanges BTC for ETH. In this instance, the purchased ETH will instantly be deposited in the Binance web wallet.

As such, this makes it convenient for active traders that regularly buy and sell crypto. Binance also offers a proprietary app that connects to the web wallet. Both options enable users to deposit and withdraw crypto on a wallet-to-wallet basis. Moreover, the Binance wallet is compatible with DeFi services. This includes yield farming, staking, and savings accounts.

But where Binance really stands out is its exchange platform. For instance, BTC/GBP and a selection of other popular pairs can be traded at 0% commission. All other pairs attract a commission of just 0.1%. This can be reduced by paying trading commissions in BNB, the native token of Binance. As the world’s largest exchange for volume, Binance also offers tier-one liquidity.

In terms of security, both the Binance web and mobile app are protected by two-factor authentication. This requires the user to confirm the login request via email and/or an SMS code. Binance also has a safe asset fund for users (SAFU). This is an internal treasury fund to compensate users in the event of a hack. SAFU is funded by trading commissions collected by the exchange.

6. Trust Wallet – Crypto Wallet App Supporting 4.5+ Million Digital Assets

While Trust Wallet is backed by Binance, it operates independently from the exchange. In fact, unlike the Binance web and mobile wallets, Trust Wallet offers noncustodial storage. Once again, this means that investors will be in full control of their crypto tokens and private keys.

Trust Wallet is available as a mobile app for iOS and Android. A recently launched browser extension for Chrome, Edge, and Brave is also supported. Trust Wallet is compatible with more than 65 blockchains, which translates into over 4.5 million digital assets. As such, Trust Wallet is one of the best wallets for UK investors that are looking to diversify.

Trust Wallet is also compatible with DeFi apps, such as PancakeSwap. This enables wallet users to buy and sell tokens on the Binance Smart Chain. Investors can also use Trust Wallet to earn interest on their idle tokens. Yields are competitive, with BNB and Kava offering an APY of 11% and 10% respectively. Finally, Trust Wallet is also a great option for storing NFTs.

7. Metamask – Leading Crypto Wallet Extension for Web Browsers

With more than 30 million users, Metamask is one of the most popular crypto wallets. Metamask offers noncustodial storage across its iOS and Android app. It also offers a browser extension for Chrome, Edge, and Firefox. There are no fees to pay when using Metamask, other than standard network charges for transferring crypto.

The Metamask wallet is particularly popular with beginners, as its interface is simple to navigate. By default, Metamask is initially only compatible with the Ethereum network. Users can, however, add Binance Smart Chain, Polygon, Avalanche, Optimism, and Arbitum manually. Metamask connects to many third-party DeFi apps, including AAVE, Uniswap, Maker, OpenSea, Compound, and Axie Infinity.

8. Crypto.com – Store, Buy, and Earn Crypto via a Single Wallet App

The Crypto.com app for iOS and Android offers a wide range of services. In addition to storing crypto, the app also supports trading, NFTs, and DeFi yields. Regarding the latter, users can earn interest on over 25 tokens, including ATOM, VVS, and CRO. Additional yields can be earned by connecting to a third-party DeFi app, such as Uniswap or AAVE. The Crypto.com app also enables users to swap more than 1,000 tokens without leaving the wallet interface.

This includes multiple blockchain networks, including Ethereum and Cosmos. The Crypto.com wallet is noncustodial, so users will need to keep their private keys safe. Crypto.com also offers a popular exchange that is used by over 80 million traders. Commissions are very competitive, starting at just 0.075%. Finally, Crypto.com also offers a noncustodial wallet for browser extensions and desktop software.

9. Ledger Nano – Top Hardware Wallet for Long-Term Investors

Ledger Nano is the best crypto wallet in the UK for long-term investors. The reason for this is that Ledger Nano is a Bitcoin hardware wallet. As such, the crypto tokens are stored in a physical device for safekeeping. Crucially, Ledger Nano remains offline at all times, so the threat of a remote hack is reduced. In order to transfer tokens from Ledger Nano, the user needs to enter their PIN.

This ensures that if the Ledger Nano device is stolen, the user can recover the wallet remotely. Ledger Nano supports over 5,500 tokens across multiple blockchain networks. Through the Ledger Live desktop software or mobile app, users can buy and sell crypto. Users can also connect to third-party DeFi apps, such as 1Inch and Lido. Depending on the chosen model, Ledger Nano costs between £70-£140. Users are advised to only purchase the device directly from the Ledger Nano website.

10. Trezor – Institutional-Grade Storage Option for Large Investments

Trezor is a direct competitor of Ledger Nano, as the firm also specializes in hardware storage. In terms of the fundamentals, there is little to separate the two. For example, Trezor also offers cold storage at all times and requires a PIN to transfer tokens. Moreover, Trezor can be recovered remotely by entering the backup passphrase via an external wallet.

Trezor supports thousands of tokens across a multitude of blockchains. With that said, Trezor lacks any internal features such as buying/selling crypto. The only workaround to this is to remotely connect Trezor to the Invity exchange. Nonetheless, there are two Trezor models to choose from. Trezor Model One costs $82 (about £66). Trezor Model T – which comes with enhanced security features, costs $262 (about £213). Just like Ledger Nano, Trezor is best purchased directly from its website.

12. Exodus – Established Crypto Wallet Provider With Support for Multiple Devices

Exodus is an established crypto wallet provider that was founded in 2015. Its wallet supports more than 260 tokens across multiple networks, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and Binance Smart Chain. Another benefit of Exodus is that its wallet can be downloaded on several different device types. This includes Windows, Mac, and Linux for desktops and iOS and Android for mobile phones. There is also a browser extension for Chrome and Brave.

Exodus is also compatible with Trezor, which is one of the best crypto hardware wallets. This enables users to store the tokens on Trezor but view balances via the Exodus app. We also like the portfolio dashboard offered by Exodus, which can display the real-time value of each token in GBP.  Exodus also connects to several third-party DeFi apps. This includes compatibility with Compound Finance, so Exodus users can earn interest on idle crypto investments. Finally, Exodus offers customer support on a 24/7 basis, but cannot help recover tokens if the wallet is compromised.

13. Electrum – One of the Oldest Bitcoin-Only Wallets in the Market

Launched in 2011, Electrum is one of the oldest crypto wallets in this space. Unlike the other wallets discussed so far, Electrum only supports Bitcoin. Electrum can be downloaded as desktop software for Windows, Mac, and Linux. There is also support for Android mobiles, but Electrum is not compatible with iOS. As a noncustodial wallet, Electrum does not have access to the user’s private keys.

Instead, the private keys are encrypted on the user’s device. Electrum also provides a secret phrase when setting up the wallet. This enables users to regain access to Electrum if the device is lost or stolen. Electrum also offers watch-only wallets. This allows users to keep their private keys offline at all times. Another feature offered by Electrum is multi-sig permissions. This requires multiple wallets to authorize a transaction before the funds are sent.

14. iToken – Noncustodial Mobile Wallet Providing Access to Web3 Tools

iToken is a mobile wallet app backed by the popular Huobi exchange. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices and is used by over 10 million people. Best of all, iToken offers access to a wide range of web3 tools. For example, iToken supports most third-party DeFi apps, enabling users to earn interest via staking and savings accounts. Moreover, the iToken wallet is compatible with over 30 blockchain networks.

This includes Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, and Solana, meaning the wallet supports over one million tokens. In addition to NFTs, the iToken wallet also supports crypto trading services. The wallet connects to the primary Huobi exchange, which supports over 500+ tokens. Trading commissions are competitive at just 0.2% per slide. Moreover, via Huobi, the iToken wallet also supports debit/credit card deposits. Finally, iToken comes with 24/7 customer support.

What is a Cryptocurrency Wallet?

While pounds and dollars are deposited into bank accounts, crypto assets are stored in wallets. There are many different types of wallets to choose from across multiple devices. For example, while some investors in the UK prefer storing their crypto on a mobile app, others opt for desktop software.

It is also possible to store crypto in a hardware wallet. Unlike other wallet types, this is a physical device that stores crypto offline. Another metric to consider when searching for the best crypto wallet in the UK is custodianship. For instance, when opting for a custodial wallet, this means that the crypto is safeguarded by a third party.

eToro is a great option here, as the brokerage is regulated by the FCA. Alternatively, noncustodial wallets offer full control over the stored crypto. This is because the private keys are only known by the wallet owner, rather than a third party. Some crypto wallets also come with additional functionality.

For example, the eToro wallet enables users to buy and sell crypto with GBP, trade tokens, and even invest in professionally managed portfolios. OKX also offers plenty of features, including crypto savings accounts, loans, and other DeFi services. Ultimately, choosing the best crypto wallet in the UK requires investors to consider a wide range of factors.

Read on for more information on how crypto wallets work.

How do Bitcoin Wallets Work?

The easiest comparison to make when learning about crypto wallets is with a standard current account. For example, current accounts in the UK enable people to store money. This is also the case with a crypto wallet, but for storing digital assets like Bitcoin.

Furthermore, currency accounts enable people to receive money. This is achieved by providing the current account number and sort code. This information can safely be provided to others, as it is simply a means for receiving deposits.

Similarly, this is also how crypto wallets work. But instead of an account number and sort code, crypto wallets have a ‘public address’.

Public Addresses

Each public address is unique to the specific wallet. Moreover, most public addresses are between 26 and 35 alphanumeric characters.

Here’s an example of a Bitcoin public address:

34xp4vRoCGJym3xR7yCVPFHoCNxv4Twseo

The above public address belongs to the Binance exchange. Due to the transparency of the Bitcoin blockchain, we can see that Binance’s wallet holds nearly $7 billion worth of BTC tokens.

This means that when giving someone a public address, they can view how much crypto is being stored. This isn’t possible when having access to a current account number and sort code. As such, investors in the UK should only share their public addresses when necessary.

Private Keys

Now that we have established that public addresses enable a wallet to receive crypto, we now need to discuss ‘private keys’. Back to our current account comparison, private keys are similar to online banking passwords.

This is because in order to transfer funds to another person online, the current account owner must enter their password credentials. If somebody else knows the password, they can log in to the account and make an unauthorized transfer.

This is much the same as how private keys work in a crypto wallet. That is to say, private keys enable the user to access the wallet and transfer crypto to another public address. If unauthorized access happens, the transaction cannot be reversed.

Nor can the wallet provider help recover the tokens, as blockchain transactions are immutable. As such, it is crucial that the wallet’s private keys are never shared with anyone.

Private keys are even longer than public addresses. For instance, Bitcoin private keys are 64 characters, covering both letters and numbers. This is why the best Bitcoin wallets in the UK support ‘backup phrases’.

Backup Phrases

Instead of needing to enter a long string of 64 characters, private keys can be represented by a backup phrase. This will vary depending on the wallet provider but is commonly 12 words.

The 12 words must be entered in the correct order to access the wallet. This is why users are advised to write down the backup phrase when setting the wallet up and keeping it somewhere safe.

Fortunately, the backup phrase is only required if the user forgets their wallet login details. This is usually just a PIN or a standard password.

Furthermore, the backup phrase will enable the user to recover the wallet if the device is lost or stolen. In this instance, the user can download another wallet and enter the backup phrase. The user can then transfer the tokens to another wallet address.

Why You Need a Crypto Wallet

There are several reasons why wallets are required when getting into crypto.

This includes:

Storage

Crypto tokens are stored on the blockchain. But in order to communicate with the blockchain, a wallet is required. As such, wallets enable users to safely store their tokens remotely.

Investors can choose from a custodial or noncustodial wallet, depending on the level of control sought.

Viewing Balances

Crypto wallets are also useful for checking the value of an investment. This is because the best crypto wallets in the UK display balances based on real-time prices.

For example, let’s say the investor buys Bitcoin at £20,000 and it’s now trading at £30,000. If the original investment was £1,000 – the wallet would now show a value of £1,500.

Receiving Crypto

As noted above, UK crypto wallets enable users to receive tokens from an external source.

This requires the user to send their wallet’s public address to the sender. Depending on the blockchain, the tokens will arrive in the wallet in a matter of minutes.

Sending Crypto

Similarly, a wallet is also required to send crypto to another person. In this instance, the sender needs to enter the public address of the receiver’s wallet.

Types of Crypto Wallets

In this section, we cover the main types of UK crypto wallet options in the market.

Software Wallets

Software wallets enable users to store, send, and receive crypto remotely. There are multiple options in this regard. First, some wallets can be downloaded as desktop software. Support is often provided for Windows, Mac, and Linux.

The more popular option is to download a wallet app for iOS or Android. This is because the user can check their crypto investments on the move, simply by opening the app.

Both desktop and mobile wallets come with various safety nets, but this will vary depending on the provider. For example, some wallets offer two-factor authentication, while others come with multi-sig permissions.

Additionally, web wallets are also software-based and usually backed by crypto exchanges or brokers. This can be a convenient option when choosing the right provider. For example, eToro is regulated by the FCA and offers a web wallet service for over 70 tokens. This means that users can buy, sell, and store crypto through the same account.

Finally, some software wallet providers offer a browser extension for Chrome and Firefox. This enables users to send, receive, and store their tokens via a laptop device.

Hardware Wallets

The safest option when storing large amounts of crypto is to opt for a hardware wallet. The crypto will be stored in a physical device that remains offline at all times.

The two leading hardware wallet providers are Ledger Nano and Trezor, which we reviewed earlier.

Here’s how a crypto hardware wallet works:

• After purchasing the hardware wallet, the user will need to choose a PIN
• The PIN needs to be entered whenever the user wishes to send crypto to another public address
• The user will also need to write down their backup phrase
• This is used to recover the wallet if the device is lost, stolen, or damaged

While hardware wallets are secure, they are far from convenient. After all, the only way to send funds is to have access to the device, as the PIN needs to be entered for authorization.

Nonetheless, Ledger Nano or Trezor could be the best Bitcoin wallet for UK investors that have a serious amount of money invested.

Paper Wallets

Paper wallets offer even less functionality but unlike Ledger Nano and Trezor – are free to operate.

• Put simply, the user will generate a random wallet address and private key.
• Next, the user can transfer the tokens to the wallet address.
• Finally, this information will be printed and safely stored.

The user will need to manually import the private wallet to another wallet should they wish to access the funds.

On the one hand, paper wallets are ultra-secure, as there is never a connection to the internet. However, if the paper is lost or damaged, access to the wallet is impossible. In this instance, the crypto funds are lost forever.

How to Pick a Crypto Wallet

Still not sure how to select the best crypto wallet for UK investors?

Follow the checklist below to get started with a suitable UK Bitcoin wallet today:

Custodianship

First, consider whether the crypto wallet offers custodial or noncustodial storage.

• Users that wish to take full control over their private keys should opt for a noncustodial wallet.
• A custodial wallet, on the other hand, is safeguarded by a third party, such as an exchange or broker.

Neither option supersedes the other, as it all depends on the preference and experience of the crypto investor.

Wallet Type

After choosing between a custodial or noncustodial wallet, consider the preferred device type.

As noted above, options include:

• Mobile wallet app
• Desktop software
• Browser extension
• Web wallet
• Paper wallet
• Hardware wallet

Each wallet type comes with its own balance of security, convenience, and features. Scroll back up to review how each wallet type works.

Supported Blockchain Networks

When choosing the best crypto wallet for UK traders, consider what blockchain networks it supports.

For example, if the wallet supports the Ethereum network, then it will likely store all ERC-20 tokens. Similarly, if the Binance Smart Chain is supported, it will accept all BSC tokens.

Fees

The best crypto wallets in the UK are usually free to download, install, and maintain.

However, fees will need to be charged when sending crypto tokens to another wallet address.

In this regard, make sure that the wallet provider does not charge a mark-up. Instead, the fee should mirror what the blockchain network is currently quoting.

Exchange Features

The best crypto wallets in the UK double up as an exchange. For example, the eToro wallet enables users to buy and sell over 70 cryptocurrencies.

This makes it super convenient to invest and store crypto via the same platform.

DeFi Tools

We also came across crypto wallets that support DeFi tools. For example, the OKX wallet enables users to earn interest on idle crypto tokens.

Several options are available, including crypto savings accounts and staking. The OKX wallet also enables users to connect to third-party DeFi apps, such as Uniswap and 1Inch.

Security

Top crypto wallets in the UK offer a range of security features.

This may include the following:

• Cold storage of client digital assets of at least 95% (custodian-only)
• Two-factor authentication
• IP address and device whitelisting
• Multi-sig permissions
• KYC
• Withdrawal timelocks
• Regulation

The more secure features a wallet offers, the better.

User Experience

UK investors should also ensure that they are choosing a crypto wallet that aligns with their skill set.

For example, those buying crypto for the very first time will likely be more suited for a custodian wallet. eToro is a great option here considering its FCA regulation and beginner-friendly dashboard.

Seasoned traders, however, might prefer a noncustodial wallet that comes with advanced security protocols.

As noted above, most crypto wallets are free to download and install. This enables users to try the wallet out before transferring any crypto.

How to Get a Cryptocurrency Wallet in the UK

In this section, we explain how to set up the best crypto wallet in the UK for 2023 – eToro.

Step 1: Open an eToro Account

The first step is to visit the eToro website and open an account. This takes just five minutes and is a mandatory step, as eToro is regulated by the FCA.

Simply enter some personal information and contact details to complete the registration process.

Step 2: Download eToro Wallet App

The next step is to download the eToro wallet app.

The app is supported on both iOS and Android devices.

Step 3: Transfer or Buy Crypto

Open the eToro wallet app and log in with the username and password that was created when opening the account.

The next step is to add some crypto to the eToro wallet. Choose which crypto to deposit and copy the unique wallet address provided by eToro. After that, transfer the crypto to this address from an external wallet.

The eToro wallet app also enables UK investors to buy crypto with a debit/credit card or e-wallet. eToro supports over 70 different cryptocurrencies and the minimum deposit/investment is just $10 (about £8).

Once the purchase is made, the eToro wallet app will be credited.

Step 4: Safely Store Crypto

At this stage, there is nothing else to do. The crypto tokens will remain in the eToro wallet app safe and secure.

At any given time, the crypto tokens can be sold back to cash. This can be completed via the eToro wallet app.

The user can then withdraw the cash to their UK bank account, e-wallet, or debit/credit card.

Cryptoassets are highly volatile and unregulated in most EU countries, Australia and the UK. No consumer protection. Tax on profits may apply. Your capital is at risk.

Are UK Bitcoin Wallets Safe?

Whether or not a Bitcoin wallet is safe depends on various factors. This is why it is important to research the credentials of a wallet provider before depositing any crypto.

Here’s what to consider when evaluating the safety of a crypto wallet:

Noncustodial Wallets

The first point to consider is who has custodianship over the crypto tokens.

If using a noncustodial wallet, then the user must take full responsibility for the safety of their crypto. This is because the wallet is always at risk of being compromised by a remote hacking attempt.

• Hackers are becoming more and more sophisticated, so it is crucial to choose a noncustodial wallet that comes with sufficient security controls.
• For example, two-factor authentication requires an additional device to authorize access to the wallet.
• This is usually via an SMS code sent to a mobile phone.
• In this instance, a hacker would find it difficult to access the wallet without the required code.

With that said, if a hacker has access to the private key (or backup phrase), two-factor authentication will be of little use. This is why it is also imperative to keep the private key offline and stored somewhere safe. If the private key is stored in an email or notepad file, it is vulnerable to a remote hack.

Another security feature to look for when using a noncustodial wallet is multi-sig permissions. Put simply, this requires more than two wallets to authorize an outgoing transaction. For example, the user might have one wallet on a desktop device and another on their mobile phone.

Custodial Wallets

When using a custodial wallet, a third party is responsible for safeguarding the tokens. This option will suit beginners that do not feel comfortable taking responsibility for their own private keys. However, choosing the right custodian is crucial.

This has never been more important after the recent collapse of the FTX exchange, which owns customers several billion dollars worth of crypto. Unlike FTX, however, eToro is regulated by multiple tier-one bodies – including the FCA, FINRA, CySEC, and ASIC.

As such, eToro offers a safe and convenient way to buy and store crypto in the UK. Another security feature to look for when opting for a custodial wallet is cold storage. This means that the custodian keeps client digital assets offline at all times.

Additionally, UK investors should also consider whether IP address and device whitelisting are offered by the wallet provider. For example, if a login attempt comes from a new laptop or mobile phone, additional authorization will be required.

Conclusion

Crypto wallets enable UK investors to store, send, and receive tokens. While many options exist, choosing a secure wallet is crucial to ensure the crypto investment remains safe and away from hackers.

eToro offers the best crypto wallet in the UK for safety and features. This FCA-regulated broker offers a web and mobile wallet that doubles up as an exchange.

This enables UK investors to buy and sell crypto without leaving the wallet interface. Moreover, eToro is trusted by over 30 million people and has been operational since 2007.

Cryptoassets are highly volatile and unregulated in most EU countries, Australia and the UK. No consumer protection. Tax on profits may apply. Your capital is at risk.

FAQs

How does a cryptocurrency wallet work?

Cryptocurrency wallets are required to send, receive, and safely store digital assets like Bitcoin. Wallets can be downloaded via a mobile app or desktop software. Some wallets also support browser extensions and even a physical device.