In the cryptocurrency world, one principle has stood the test of time: not your keys, not your crypto.
Despite this, a large portion of users still keep their digital assets on centralized exchanges, prioritizing convenience over security.
With hacks, freezes, and insolvencies becoming recurring events in the crypto industry, self-custody is no longer a niche practice reserved for advanced users. It is quickly becoming the standard for anyone who wants to truly own and protect their assets.
To promote awareness around this topic, Cryptonomist has partnered with Trezor, one of the most established names in crypto security, to launch a giveaway featuring the Trezor Safe 7 hardware wallet.
The Hidden Risk of Keeping Crypto on Exchanges
Centralized exchanges play an important role in onboarding users into crypto. However, they also introduce a fundamental trade-off: you do not control your private keys.
When assets are held on an exchange:
- Funds are exposed to platform hacks
- Withdrawals can be frozen without notice
- Users depend entirely on third-party security practices
History has repeatedly shown that even large and reputable platforms are not immune to failure. From exchange collapses to sudden regulatory actions, the risk profile of custodial platforms remains high.
Self-custody removes this dependency by putting full ownership back in the hands of the user.
What Is Self-Custody and Why It’s Essential
Self-custody means that only you control your private keys, and therefore only you have access to your crypto assets. No intermediary, company, or government can move or freeze your funds without your consent.
The most secure way to achieve self-custody is through a hardware wallet.
Unlike software wallets connected to the internet, hardware wallets store private keys offline, drastically reducing exposure to:
- Malware
- Phishing attacks
- Remote exploits
This is where devices like the Trezor Safe 7 come into play.
Why the Trezor Safe 7 Stands Out
Trezor has been a pioneer in hardware wallet development since the early days of Bitcoin. The Trezor Safe 7 continues this legacy with a focus on usability, transparency, and security.
Key advantages include:
- Offline storage of private keys
- Open-source firmware for full transparency
- Protection against unauthorized access
- Compatibility with major cryptocurrencies
Designed for both beginners and experienced users, the Trezor Safe 7 makes secure self-custody accessible without unnecessary complexity.
Cryptonomist × Trezor: A Giveaway Focused on Education
Rather than promoting self-custody through abstract concepts, Cryptonomist and Trezor aim to make it tangible and actionable.
As part of this initiative, one Trezor Safe 7 hardware wallet (worth approximately €250) will be given away to a member of the crypto community.
The goal is not only to reward participation, but also to encourage users to reflect on an essential question:
Why does self-custody matter in crypto?
By asking participants to engage with this topic, the giveaway becomes an educational moment rather than a simple promotional event.
How to Participate in the Giveaway
Participation is open and straightforward:
- Follow Cryptonomist and Trezor on Instagram
- Like the official IG giveaway post
- Comment explaining why self-custody matters
- Share the post in your Instagram Stories
Additional bonus entries are available for those who tag friends interested in crypto.
The giveaway will remain open until 3 February, with the winner announced via Instagram Stories.
Self-Custody as a Long-Term Mindset
While giveaways are temporary, the principles behind them are not.
Self-custody represents a shift in mindset — from trusting intermediaries to taking personal responsibility for digital wealth.
As the crypto ecosystem continues to mature, tools like hardware wallets are becoming less optional and more foundational. Education, awareness, and correct practices will define the next generation of crypto users.
This collaboration between Cryptonomist and Trezor is a step in that direction.
Final Thoughts
Owning crypto is not just about price exposure or speculation. It is about sovereignty, control, and security.
Whether or not you participate in the giveaway, understanding the importance of self-custody is essential for anyone operating in the digital asset space.
And for one participant, that journey will begin with a Trezor Safe 7.
Source: https://en.cryptonomist.ch/2026/02/01/cryptonomist-trezor-launch-trezor-safe-7-giveaway/
