Attend conferences and handle private deals
Crypto events bring together identity, professional interests and sometimes visible wealth. Separate networking from custody and settlement.
Before and during an event
Review what the organiser publishes about you. Use a business contact identity that does not recover financial accounts. Keep reserve apps and sensitive portfolio views off demo devices. Treat QR codes, airdrops, giveaways, USB devices and new extensions as untrusted until independently verified.
Do not connect a reserve wallet to claim a benefit or prove eligibility. If a demonstration is necessary, use an appropriately isolated environment with only a tolerable amount at risk. A separate browser profile alone may not isolate malware on the same computer.
Confirm side event invitations independently. A recognizable name in a messaging group, photograph with a founder or VIP badge does not validate a private venue or deal. Avoid publishing your live movements and changing transport based solely on a direct message.
Private sales and OTC transactions
The default should be a properly regulated service suitable for your jurisdiction and client status, with formal due diligence and documented settlement. A shared background, family introduction, mall, office, bodyguard or previous payment does not replace verification. Community accounts describe both success and loss; neither certifies a dealer. See chapter 52.
Before a material transaction, independently establish the legal entity, regulatory status, permitted activity, beneficial counterparty, official contact details, custody arrangements, fees, settlement process and dispute route. Match payment instructions to the verified entity and agreement. Seek legal and compliance advice on source of funds, sanctions, reporting and cross border restrictions.
Decline: cash or crypto handovers in private locations; third party bank accounts without a legitimate verified explanation; borrowed accounts; “no questions asked” conversion; unexplained discounts; last minute recipient changes; or instructions to split transactions to avoid controls.
Operational discipline
Use pre-approved addresses and independent confirmation. Record the correct chain, token contract where relevant, destination and required memo. A screenshot is not proof of final settlement. Account restrictions, freezes, stablecoin issuer controls and network delays can affect completion.
Do not arrive needing an immediate large conversion to pay for the trip. Maintain ordinary spending access so you can walk away from a questionable deal.
If the meeting becomes coercive: prioritize personal safety and involve police when safe. Financial due diligence cannot rescue an unsafe physical setting.
Regulatory check: destination chapters link to official registers. Check the entry on the day you use it; application, registration and full permission to provide a particular service are different concepts.