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Coinbase Security & Compliance Policy Overview

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Mandate

Coinbase mandates the use of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to protect all user accounts. This is a critical security layer requiring users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access. The primary MFA method recommended is a **Time-based One-Time Password (TOTP)** generated by an authenticator application (e.g., Google Authenticator, Authy). SMS-based 2FA is supported but carries inherent risks associated with SIM-swapping attacks and is discouraged for high-value accounts. Upon successful completion of the email and password entry on the **Coinbase Login** page, users are immediately directed to the MFA screen. This layer prevents unauthorized access even if an attacker manages to obtain your primary credentials. Users are strongly encouraged to enable a security key (e.g., YubiKey) using the **FIDO2 standard** for the highest level of account protection, as hardware keys are immune to phishing and man-in-the-middle attacks. Account lockouts are temporary and triggered by excessive failed MFA attempts, a measure taken to prevent brute-force attacks on the second factor.

Phishing and Social Engineering Prevention

Users should always verify they are on the official **Coinbase Login** domain: **https://www.coinbase.com/signin**. Never click on login links sent via unsolicited emails. Coinbase will never ask for your password, 2FA code, or recovery phrases via email or phone call. Social engineering attempts are a leading cause of crypto theft. To combat this, Coinbase employs proprietary anti-phishing technologies. Furthermore, users can enroll in the **Coinbase Phishing Protection** program, which may add a unique code to legitimate emails, helping you distinguish official communications from fraudulent ones. If you receive a suspicious communication, do not interact with it; instead, forward the email to the dedicated Coinbase security team for investigation and immediate action. Reporting phishing attempts helps protect the entire community.

Regulatory Compliance and Custody

Coinbase operates under stringent regulatory oversight across numerous jurisdictions, adhering to **Know Your Customer (KYC)** and **Anti-Money Laundering (AML)** laws. All accounts must undergo identity verification before trading or withdrawal can commence. Our custody solution uses a combination of cold storage (offline) and hot storage (online) wallets. **98% of all customer crypto funds are held in cold storage**, which is geographically dispersed and secured by physical vault technology and multi-signature authorization protocols, offering unparalleled protection against cyber theft. Only a small percentage of assets required for liquidity are held in the hot wallet, and these funds are insured. FDIC insurance covers USD balances held in your Coinbase accounts, up to the maximum allowable limit, ensuring the safety of your fiat currency holdings, separate from the crypto assets. This bifurcated storage strategy is central to Coinbase’s commitment to security and compliance, ensuring that our operations meet or exceed industry best practices globally.

Password Hygiene and Device Security

Maintaining strong password hygiene is the user's first line of defense. Passwords for your **Coinbase Login** should be complex, unique, and stored securely, preferably using a dedicated password manager. Never reuse passwords across different online services. Coinbase enforces minimum complexity requirements and encourages the use of passphrases rather than simple words. Furthermore, it is critical to keep the operating system, browser, and all antivirus software on your devices updated. Using a dedicated device or a clean browser profile solely for crypto trading and financial transactions can further mitigate risks associated with malware or keyloggers on personal computers. Always log out of your session, especially on shared or public devices, and monitor the **Account Activity** section within your profile regularly for any unrecognized login attempts or transaction history.

Account Recovery and Legal Disclaimers

The account recovery process is deliberately complex to ensure security. If you lose access to your 2FA device, you must undergo a rigorous identity verification process, which includes video verification and waiting periods, to prevent unauthorized takeover. This process, while lengthy, prioritizes the security of your assets. Users must understand that while Coinbase protects the security of the platform and the custody of assets through technical and physical means, the **volatility of cryptocurrency markets means the value of digital assets is subject to significant risk and can result in losses**. Coinbase is an execution venue and a custodian, not a financial advisor. This document constitutes a general overview of security policies and does not form a binding contract. For complete terms and conditions governing the **Coinbase Login** and platform usage, please refer to the official Coinbase User Agreement and Privacy Policy, accessible via the footer links below. Continued use of the platform signifies acceptance of these terms and acknowledges the inherent risks involved in trading and holding digital currencies. All users are responsible for understanding the regulatory and tax implications of their trading activities in their respective jurisdictions.

The Coinbase security architecture is designed with the assumption that user credentials may, at some point, be exposed. Therefore, multiple layers of defense, including advanced DDoS mitigation, continuous monitoring of network activity, and cryptographic signing requirements for internal transfers, are employed 24/7. The security framework aligns with established global standards for financial technology providers. Your cooperation in maintaining strong personal security practices, such as verifying the **Coinbase Login** URL and securing your MFA device, completes this critical defense ecosystem.