How to secure your Bybit account?

Enable 2FA on Bybit using Google Authenticator or Authy, store your recovery key securely, and avoid SMS for stronger account protection.

Aug 10, 2025 at 06:35 pm

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on Bybit

Securing your Bybit account begins with activating two-factor authentication (2FA), which adds a critical layer of protection beyond your password. Without 2FA, your account is vulnerable to unauthorized access even if your password is compromised. Bybit supports Google Authenticator and Authy, both of which generate time-sensitive codes. To set this up, navigate to your Bybit account settings, select the "Security" tab, and click on "Two-Factor Authentication." Follow the on-screen instructions to scan the QR code using your authenticator app. After scanning, enter the six-digit code generated by the app into the Bybit interface to confirm. It is essential to store your recovery key in a secure offline location, such as a password manager or encrypted file, because losing access to your authenticator could lock you out permanently.

• Download Google Authenticator or Authy from your device’s app store
• Open the app and tap the "+" icon to add a new account
• Scan the QR code displayed in your Bybit security settings
• Enter the 6-digit code from the app into the Bybit verification field
• Save the recovery key in a secure, offline location

Use a Strong and Unique Password

A robust password is your first line of defense. Many users reuse passwords across platforms, making them susceptible to credential stuffing attacks. Your Bybit password must be at least 12 characters long and include a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special symbols. Avoid using personal information such as birthdays or common words. Consider using a password manager like Bitwarden or 1Password to generate and store complex passwords. When creating or updating your password on Bybit, ensure no other service uses the same one. If a data breach occurs on another platform, having a unique password prevents attackers from accessing your Bybit funds.

• Create a password with random character combinations
• Use a password manager to store and autofill credentials
• Change your password immediately if you suspect a breach
• Never share your password via email, messages, or calls

Whitelist Withdrawal Addresses

Bybit allows users to whitelist cryptocurrency withdrawal addresses, meaning only pre-approved addresses can receive funds from your account. This feature is crucial in preventing hackers from redirecting your assets even if they gain partial access. To enable this, go to your Security settings and locate the "Withdrawal Address Whitelist" option. Click "Add Address," enter the destination wallet address, and confirm via your 2FA app. Once added, any withdrawal request to a non-whitelisted address will be automatically blocked. Note that whitelisting takes 24 hours to become active for security reasons, so plan accordingly. You can manage multiple addresses and remove them if needed, but each removal also requires 2FA and may have a cooldown period.

• Access the "Whitelist Addresses" section under Security settings
• Enter the full wallet address you intend to withdraw to
• Confirm the addition using your 2FA code
• Wait 24 hours before the address becomes active for withdrawals

Activate Email and SMS Notifications

Real-time alerts help detect suspicious activity early. Bybit enables email and SMS notifications for logins, withdrawals, and security changes. These alerts allow you to respond quickly if an unauthorized action occurs. To configure notifications, go to your Account Settings and select the "Notifications" tab. Enable alerts for critical events such as login attempts from new devices, withdrawal requests, and 2FA modifications. Ensure your registered email and phone number are current and secured. Your email should also have 2FA enabled, preferably using an app-based method rather than SMS, as SIM swapping attacks can intercept text messages. Treat your email as a gateway to your crypto accounts and protect it accordingly.

• Log in to your Bybit account and navigate to Notifications settings
• Toggle on alerts for login activities and fund movements
• Verify your email and phone number if not already confirmed
• Secure your email account with app-based 2FA and a strong password

Avoid Phishing and Malware Risks

Phishing remains one of the most common threats to cryptocurrency users. Scammers create fake websites or send fraudulent emails that mimic Bybit’s official domain. Always double-check the URL before logging in — the correct address is https://www.bybit.com. Bookmark the official site to avoid accidental navigation to counterfeit pages. Never click on links in unsolicited emails or social media messages claiming to be from Bybit. Additionally, install reputable antivirus and anti-malware software on your devices. Malware such as keyloggers can capture your keystrokes and steal login details. Use a dedicated device for crypto transactions when possible, and avoid logging in on public or shared computers. Consider using a hardware wallet to store large amounts, as private keys never leave the device.

• Manually type the Bybit URL or use a saved bookmark
• Ignore emails asking for login credentials or 2FA codes
• Install trusted antivirus software like Bitdefender or Malwarebytes
• Use a hardware wallet like Ledger or Trezor for long-term storage

Secure Your Recovery Options

Bybit provides recovery mechanisms such as security questions and backup codes, but these must be handled with care. If you opt to set security questions, avoid answers that can be guessed or found online. Instead, treat them like additional passwords and store them securely. For backup codes, download and print them immediately after enabling 2FA. Keep the printed copy in a fireproof safe or another physically secure location. Never store backup codes in cloud storage, email, or unencrypted digital files. If you lose both your 2FA device and backup codes, account recovery may not be possible, resulting in permanent loss of access.

• Answer security questions with non-obvious, randomized responses
• Download and print 2FA backup codes upon setup
• Store physical copies in a locked, secure location
• Never share recovery information with anyone, including support staff

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I lose my 2FA device?

If you lose access to your authenticator app, use your backup codes to log in. After logging in, disable 2FA and set it up again with a new device. If you don’t have backup codes, contact Bybit support with proof of identity, but recovery is not guaranteed.

Can I use SMS instead of an authenticator app for 2FA?

Bybit supports SMS 2FA, but it is less secure due to the risk of SIM swapping. App-based 2FA (Google Authenticator or Authy) is strongly recommended for better protection.

How do I verify the authenticity of a Bybit email?

Check the sender’s email address — official communications come from domains ending in @bybit.com. Hover over links to preview the URL without clicking. When in doubt, log in directly through the official website instead of using email links.

Is it safe to log in to Bybit from a mobile app?

Yes, the Bybit mobile app is secure if downloaded from the official App Store or Google Play. Avoid third-party app stores, which may distribute modified or malicious versions. Keep your device’s operating system and the app updated.