TAKE CUSTODY
a structured curriculum designed to educate individuals on the self-custody of Bitcoin, focusing on security, privacy, and operational management:
Module 1: Introduction to Bitcoin and Self-Custody
Lesson 1.1: Bitcoin Basics
What is Bitcoin?
Blockchain technology explained.
Why self-custody is important ("Not your keys, not your coins").
Lesson 1.2: Fundamentals of Cryptography
Basics of public and private keys.
Understanding hash functions and digital signatures.
Module 2: Understanding Wallets
Lesson 2.1: Types of Wallets
Hot Wallets vs. Cold Wallets
Custodial vs. Non-Custodial Wallets
Lesson 2.2: Wallet Setup
Choosing the right wallet (software, hardware).
Software Wallets: Electrum, Blue Wallet, etc.
Hardware Wallets: Ledger, Trezor, Coldcard, etc.
Step-by-step guide on setting up a wallet.
Lesson 2.3: Key Management
Importance of seed phrases and mnemonic backups.
Best practices for storing seed phrases securely.
Module 3: Security Practices
Lesson 3.1: Physical Security
Protecting hardware wallets and backups.
Travel security for physical keys.
Lesson 3.2: Digital Security
Securing your devices: antivirus, updates, and secure browsing.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).
Lesson 3.3: Social Engineering and Phishing
Recognizing and avoiding common scams.
Best practices for secure online interactions.
Module 4: Advanced Self-Custody Techniques
Lesson 4.1: Multi-Signature (Multisig) Wallets
Basics of multisig and why it adds security.
Setting up and managing a multisig wallet.
Lesson 4.2: Transaction Management
Understanding transaction fees and confirmations.
Timelocks and conditional transactions.
Lesson 4.3: Privacy in Bitcoin
CoinJoin and mixing services for privacy.
Avoiding address reuse.
Module 5: Practical Use and Testing
Lesson 5.1: Sending and Receiving Bitcoin
How to send Bitcoin securely.
Receiving Bitcoin with privacy considerations.
Lesson 5.2: Recovery Practices
Simulating loss of wallet to test recovery methods.
Regular backup checks.
Lesson 5.3: Node Operation
Basics of running a Bitcoin node for enhanced privacy and security.
Setup of a full node or light node.
Module 6: Legal and Ethical Considerations
Lesson 6.1: Regulatory Landscape
Understanding the legal status of Bitcoin in various jurisdictions.
Tax implications of Bitcoin ownership and transactions.
Lesson 6.2: Inheritance and Estate Planning
Planning for the inheritance of your Bitcoin.
Legal tools for ensuring access by heirs.
Module 7: Future Trends and Continuous Learning
Lesson 7.1: Emerging Technologies
Introduction to Lightning Network and its implications for self-custody.
Other layer 2 solutions.
Lesson 7.2: Staying Updated
Resources for staying informed about Bitcoin updates and security practices.
Community involvement and forums.
Hands-On Projects:
Project 1: Set up a hardware wallet from scratch, transfer funds, and then simulate its loss to recover the funds.
Project 2: Create and manage a multisig wallet with friends or family.
Project 3: Participate in a CoinJoin transaction to enhance privacy.
Assessment:
Regular quizzes on each module.
A comprehensive final project where learners set up a secure self-custody environment from scratch, involving all learned techniques.
Resources:
Books: "Mastering Bitcoin" by Andreas M. Antonopoulos
Online Courses: Bitcoin Academy, BitMEX Academy
Videos: YouTube series by BTC Sessions, Natalie Brunell
Forums: Reddit (r/Bitcoin), Bitcointalk
This curriculum aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of Bitcoin self-custody, blending theoretical knowledge with practical application to ensure users are well-equipped to manage their digital assets securely and independently.