Bitcoin Self-Custody Explained: Keep Your Crypto Safe in 2026

Want to get into crypto without getting scammed?  In this episode of Smarter Online Safety, I sit down with Bitcoin expert Andrew Melnychuk-Oseen to break down cryptocurrency, self-custody, and crypto security for beginners — so you can protect your money before you ever buy your first coin. I'll be honest: most people lose crypto not to bad markets, but to bad security. So Andrew and I get practical. We cover what Bitcoin actually is (hint: it's new market infrastructure, not just "internet money"), why self-custody matters, how hardware wallets and private keys work, and the single biggest red flag that means someone is trying to steal your money. If anyone ever asks for your private key — they're scamming you. Full stop. Whether you're crypto-curious, a total beginner, or you've been burned before, this is your no-hype, safety-first guide to entering the crypto world with confidence. 🔐 In this episode, you'll learn: * How to buy and store Bitcoin safely as a beginner * What self-custody is and why "not your keys, not your coins" matters * How hardware wallets, private keys & multi-signature wallets protect you * The most common crypto scams in 2026 — and how to avoid them * Why crypto volatility happens and how to manage your risk * How to start small and "dip your toes in" the smart way * Where AI agents and cryptocurrency are heading next 🔗 Connect with Andrew: LinkedIn @AMOVFX | saagasolve.com