Set up a hardware security key and strengthen your Bitcoin Security

Cryptocurrency

January 17, 2025

Written by Xapo Bank

Enable an extra layer of protection for your BTC Vault by adding a hardware security key to your Xapo Bank account.

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Enhance your BTC Vault defenses

Security is paramount when it comes to your Bitcoin. To help you protect your holdings, Xapo Bank now supports hardware security keys — physical devices that add another strong layer of defense on top of the BTC Vault’s existing safeguards.

With hardware security keys, even if someone gains access to your phone and passwords, they cannot withdraw funds without possessing the physical key. This approach complements our standard security measures, including email approvals, a 48-hour withdrawal delay, and PIN/biometric verification, giving you more control and greater peace of mind.

Quick setup guide

Before you begin, ensure your security key supports the FIDO2 or U2F standards. Yubico’s YubiKey is a popular choice, but any compatible key works. Here's the step-by-step guide for how to setup a hardware security key with your Xapo Bank account:

Enabling your security key with Xapo Bank

Log in to your Xapo Bank account.
Click your profile icon (top-right corner)
Go to Security & privacy > Hardware security key
Select the type of hardware security key you’ll use (NFC or USB)
Follow the on-screen prompts to configure your key

Retain control and access to your Bitcoin assets

Setting up a hardware security key isn’t mandatory, but if you hold substantial Bitcoin and want maximum protection, it’s a smart addition. This physical layer of authentication can be more effective than traditional cold storage solutions for certain users, offering a blend of online accessibility and offline security measures.

Take a look at the Xapo Bank security key FAQ for any unanswered questions you may have.

Disclaimer

Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high‑risk investment and you are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong. Capital at risk. This information is not investment advice. Crypto asset values can go up as well as down and you could lose all the money you invest. You are not protected if it loses all or some of its value. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Bitcoin deposits are not covered by the Gibraltar Deposit Guarantee Scheme.

This article is for general information purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal or other professional advice or a recommendation of any kind whatsoever and should not be relied upon or treated as a substitute for specific advice relevant to particular circumstances.

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