Here are some points a user can check to avoid using a bad or scam wallet:
**Wallet Security Checks:**
1. **Open Source & Audited:** Prefer wallets that are open-source. This allows the community to review the code for malicious behavior. Check if the wallet has undergone a security audit by a reputable firm.
2. **Reputation:** Research the wallet's reputation. Look for reviews, mentions in the community, and any past incidents of security breaches or scams.
3. **Permissions:** Check the permissions the wallet requests on your device. If a wallet is asking for unnecessary permissions (like access to your contacts or location) it could be a red flag.
4. **Developer Anonymity:** Be wary of wallets where the developers are completely anonymous or have a history of shady projects.
5. **Community Support:** Active community support channels (like forums, Telegram groups, or Discord servers) can be a good sign. A lack of community or reports of unresolved issues should raise concerns.
**Transaction Verification:**
1. **Verify the address:** Before sending any transaction, double-check the recipient's address. Malicious wallets might attempt to replace the intended address with the attacker's. Always copy and paste the address and compare it character by character.
2. **Test Transactions:** Send a small test transaction first. This allows you to confirm that the wallet is functioning correctly and that the transaction is going to the correct address before sending a large amount.
3. **Transaction Confirmation:** Use a block explorer (like mempool.space) to independently verify that the transaction was sent to the correct address and that the amount is correct. Do not rely solely on the wallet's display.
4. **Hardware Wallets:** For larger amounts, consider using a hardware wallet. These devices keep your private keys offline, making it much harder for malicious software to steal your funds.
5. **Be Skeptical:** If something seems too good to be true (like a wallet promising unusually high returns or bonuses), it probably is.
By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of using a bad or scam wallet. Remember to always stay vigilant and do your own research.