#GateGuardNowAvailableForFree

Your crypto account can have a strong password, 2FA and a decent balance — but is it actually prepared for a security breach?

Account security is one of those things many traders ignore until something goes wrong. Phishing links, malicious software, stolen SIM cards and remote device access can turn a normal account into a serious financial risk.

That is why the availability of Gate Security Guard is worth discussing. Eligible users can activate this account protection plan for free, adding another layer of security beyond the usual login protections.

But there is an important distinction: activating a protection plan does not mean every type of crypto loss is automatically covered.

Free Protection Comes With Specific Requirements

To apply, users need to meet the platform's eligibility conditions, including:

A security score of at least 80.

Completed KYC 2 identity verification.

Completion of the required security verification.

An account in normal standing and compliance with applicable regional requirements.

Eligible users can apply through the Gate App by navigating to Profile → Security Center → Gate Security Guard. The Web option is also available.

The most important part, however, comes after activation.

The 30-Day Period Is Not Just a Formality

Once activated, the account enters a 30-day security strengthening period.

Protection does not become effective immediately. The account must maintain a security score of at least 80 for 30 consecutive days before entering the active protection state.

If the score falls below 80, the plan can be suspended. This means users cannot simply activate the feature once and forget about their security settings.

There is another detail worth understanding: changing or disabling important security protections can reset the qualifying period. Maintaining security is an ongoing responsibility, not a one-time setup.

What Does the Protection Actually Cover?

The plan is designed for certain cases involving unauthorized asset transfers caused by account compromise.

That can include situations involving phishing, malware, SIM theft or remote control of a device, provided the incident meets the plan's conditions.

But I would strongly advise everyone to read the exclusions before relying on it.

For example, a transfer personally authorized or confirmed by the account holder may not qualify for compensation, even if the person was manipulated, deceived or pressured into making that transfer.

The plan also has documentation and reporting requirements. Eligible claims require verifiable direct asset losses, and users must follow the stated reporting deadlines and provide supporting evidence.

Most importantly, this is not an insurance policy or a guarantee that every submitted claim will be approved. Each incident is subject to review under the applicable rules.

Security Habits I Would Never Ignore

Even with an additional protection plan, I would keep these practices in place:

Use a passkey: Add a stronger authentication layer wherever supported.

Protect your email: Your email account can become an entry point to other accounts if compromised.

Keep your devices clean: Avoid unofficial applications, suspicious downloads and unknown remote-access tools.

Review API permissions: Disable unnecessary API write access and regularly check active keys.

Set withdrawal limits: Use available withdrawal controls to reduce potential exposure.

Never trust urgent messages: Fake support agents and phishing links often rely on creating panic.

My Take

I see Gate Security Guard as a useful additional layer for eligible users, especially because activation is free. But the real value depends on understanding its conditions and maintaining the required security standards.

Personally, I would rather spend a few minutes strengthening account protection today than discover a security weakness after assets have already been transferred.

A protection plan can help under specific circumstances, but prevention remains the first line of defence.

What concerns you most when it comes to crypto account security: phishing attacks, SIM theft, malware, compromised devices or fake support messages? And what security measure do you consider absolutely essential beyond passwords and 2FA?

Not financial advice.

@Gate_Square