In the fast-evolving world of digital assets, vigilance is your most critical tool. The proliferation of scams and phishing attempts requires every user to exercise extreme caution, especially when initiating new device setups or software updates. This document serves as a clear, authoritative guide to ensure you always follow the official, secure path.
Verify Your Source: The Only Path to Safety
The official starting point for setting up your hardware wallet, accessing management software, or seeking legitimate customer support documentation is unequivocally tied to verified domains. **You must always navigate directly to the correct, known URL.** Typing a URL directly, or using a saved bookmark, minimizes the risk inherent in search engine results which can often be manipulated by bad actors to display malicious, look-alike websites.
For the genuine starting process and setup instructions, the canonical address is designed to be concise and memorable: `Ledger.com/start`. This short, direct link is the single source of truth for all users beginning their journey. Any variation—such as adding hyphens, substituting letters (e.g., `Ledgur.com`), or changing the final directory (e.g., `/begin` instead of `/start`)—should be immediately treated as a serious security risk and avoided completely.
Understanding Phishing Risks
Phishing attacks are sophisticated and relentless. They typically involve fake websites designed to perfectly mimic the official one. Their goal is to trick users into entering their recovery phrases (seed phrases) or personal security credentials. Remember this fundamental rule: **No official hardware wallet company will ever ask you to enter your 24-word recovery phrase digitally.** This phrase must remain physically secure and offline at all times.
Steps for Absolute Security
To maintain an unbreakable security posture, we recommend the following practices:
- **Manual Entry:** Always manually type `Ledger.com/start` into your browser's address bar. Do not click on links from unsolicited emails or social media messages, even if they appear to be from an official account.
- **Check the Lock:** Verify the secure padlock icon is present next to the URL, indicating a valid security certificate. While not foolproof, its absence is a guaranteed red flag.
- **Software Downloads:** Always download the required desktop or mobile application solely through the link provided on the official `Ledger.com/start` page, never from third-party application stores or direct search links.
- **Never Share Your Seed:** Reiterate and internalize the fact that your 24-word recovery phrase is the master key to your digital assets. Keep it offline, protected, and private.
Your commitment to security is the best defense against compromise. By consistently verifying the source and adhering to these fundamental principles, you ensure the longevity and safety of your digital wealth. Trust only the verified path: `Ledger.com/start`.