Why login security matters
Cryptocurrency accounts on exchanges are high-value targets. Gaining access to your login or 2FA can allow immediate withdrawals or trades that are often irreversible. A secure login is the first and most important layer of defense. Building that defense means using unique credentials, strong second factors, careful device hygiene, and knowing how to respond if anything looks wrong.
Quick login checklist
- Always use the official domain
coinsquare.com
or a bookmark you control. - Use a unique, long password stored in a password manager.
- Enable two-factor authentication (prefer TOTP or hardware keys).
- Secure your recovery email with its own 2FA.
- Keep backup codes in a safe, offline place.
Step-by-step: sign in safely
- Navigate directly: Type
coinsquare.com/login
or use a bookmark. Avoid links from unsolicited emails or social media messages. - Confirm the connection: Look for HTTPS and ensure the certificate is for
coinsquare.com
. If the URL or certificate looks unusual, close the tab. - Enter credentials: Use your password manager to fill credentials — this avoids typos and prevents you from logging into fake forms created to capture keystrokes.
- Complete 2FA: Approve the login with your chosen second factor. If you use an authenticator app (TOTP), enter the current code. If you use a hardware security key, insert and confirm the key as prompted.
- Check account prompts: After login, quickly review recent activity and account settings. If you see anything unfamiliar, sign out and secure the account immediately.
Two-factor authentication (2FA)
2FA dramatically reduces the chance an attacker can log in with only your password. Coinsquare supports multiple second-factor methods. Prioritize them as follows:
- Hardware security keys (FIDO2/WebAuthn): The strongest and phishing-resistant option. Keep a primary and a securely stored backup key.
- TOTP authenticator apps: Google Authenticator, Authy, or other TOTP apps provide reliable codes. Save the account's recovery/backup codes after enabling.
- SMS: Acceptable only if no better option is available; SMS can be vulnerable to SIM-swap attacks.
Protecting your recovery channels
Your registered email and any phone numbers are potential recovery paths attackers will try to exploit. Secure them separately:
- Enable 2FA on your recovery email and use a unique password.
- Store backup/one-time recovery codes offline in a safe place.
- If you register a phone number for SMS recovery, contact your carrier about adding anti-SIM-swap protections.
Managing devices, sessions, and API keys
Regularly review devices and active sessions in your account settings. Revoke sessions you don’t recognize. If you use API keys for trading or integrations, apply least-privilege principles:
- Grant only the permissions required (e.g., read-only, trade; avoid withdraw unless absolutely necessary).
- Limit API access to specific IP addresses if the platform allows it.
- Rotate keys periodically and delete keys you no longer use.
Recognizing phishing and scam attempts
Phishing remains the most common way attackers obtain credentials. Be suspicious of:
- Unexpected emails that demand immediate action or threats of account closure.
- Links that use unfamiliar domains, extra words, or look-alike characters (e.g., unicode homographs).
- Requests to provide your password, 2FA code, or to install remote-control software.
Troubleshooting common login problems
Forgot password
Use Coinsquare’s official password reset flow on the login page. Make sure you have access to the recovery email. If you don’t receive an email, check spam folders and ensure your email provider is not blocking messages from Coinsquare.
Lost 2FA device
If you lose your authenticator device, use stored backup codes to regain access, or follow Coinsquare’s account recovery steps which may require identity verification. Keep backup codes offline and secure.
Unexpected account activity
Change your password immediately, revoke active sessions and API keys, and contact Coinsquare support. Document timestamps, IP addresses, and any transaction IDs to assist an investigation.
Authenticator time drift
Time desynchronization can cause TOTP codes to fail. Ensure your device clock is set to automatic network time or resync the authenticator app if it supports that feature.
Account recovery — plan ahead
Prepare recovery materials before you need them: save backup codes in a safe place, maintain secure access to your recovery email, and consider storing a record of identity documents you might need for support verification. Planning ahead shortens recovery time and reduces friction during stressful incidents.
Best-practice summary
- Always visit
coinsquare.com
via bookmark or typed URL. - Use a password manager for a unique, strong password.
- Enable hardware 2FA or TOTP and store backup codes offline.
- Secure recovery email and phone with their own protections.
- Regularly review sessions, devices, and API keys; revoke what you don’t use.
- If something looks wrong, change credentials from a clean device and contact Coinsquare support immediately.