What to Do When Opening Binance App for the First Time? Do These 5 Things First

After installing the Binance App, do not rush to deposit or buy crypto. Spend 10 minutes completing these five basic security settings first for peace of mind. You can do this on either the Binance Official Website or the Binance Official App on your phone. For iOS region-switching steps, please refer to Binance App Download. Here is the essential checklist for beginners.

1. Log In or Register an Account

If You Already Have an Account

Open the App, tap "Log In", and enter your registered email/phone number + password. If you have enabled 2FA, you will also need to enter the 6-digit dynamic code.

If You Don't Have an Account

Tap "Register" and follow the guide:

1. Choose email or phone number.
2. Set a login password (complex one required).
3. Receive the verification code.
4. Agree to the Terms of Service.
5. Done.

Detailed registration procedures are covered in a separate article.

2. Enable 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication)

It is highly recommended to enable this immediately. 2FA adds a layer of security required for logins, withdrawals, and password changes.

Steps:

1. In the App, tap your Avatar → Security.
2. Find "Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)".
3. Select "Google Authenticator" or "Binance Authenticator".
4. A QR code and a backup key will be displayed.
5. Write down the backup key on paper and keep it safe (crucial step).
6. Scan the QR code using Google Authenticator or Authy.
7. Enter the 6-digit code shown in the authenticator app to complete the binding.

Importance of the Backup Key

If you switch phones or lose your authenticator app, this backup key is the only way to reactivate your 2FA. Without it, you will have to undergo a manual 7-15 day identity verification process with customer support.

3. Set Up an Anti-Phishing Code

An Anti-Phishing Code helps you distinguish genuine Binance emails from fake ones at a glance.

Steps:

1. Security → Anti-Phishing Code.
2. Enable it.
3. Enter a string of 4-20 characters (8 characters recommended).
4. Example: FoxBN26 or YourName+Numbers.
5. Save.

After this, all official emails sent to you by Binance will include this string. Any "Binance email" that does not display this code is a phishing attempt.

4. Enable App Lock

Ensure that even if someone else gets hold of your unlocked phone, they cannot open the Binance App.

For iOS:

Settings → Security → Toggle "Require Face ID/Touch ID to unlock". Once enabled, every time you launch the app, it will require biometric verification.

For Android:

Settings → Security → "App Lock". Once enabled, the app will require a password or fingerprint to launch.

Some Android brands (Xiaomi, OPPO, vivo) also offer system-level app locks for an extra layer of protection.

5. Privacy Settings

Disable "Show Balance"

Settings → General → Toggle off "Show Assets". This prevents the app from displaying specific amounts on the home screen, avoiding prying eyes. You can tap to show the balance manually when needed.

Disable Notification Previews

• iOS: Settings → Notifications → Binance → Change "Show Previews" to "When Unlocked" or "Never".
• Android: Similar settings can be found under Notification settings.

This prevents sensitive information, such as login verification codes, from appearing on your lock screen.

Additional Steps

Sync 2FA Across Devices (Disaster Recovery)

Use the "Sync to Cloud" or "Export Account" feature in your authenticator app (Google Authenticator now supports cloud sync). This ensures you don't lose access when switching phones.

Secure Your Login Email with 2FA

Recovery of your Binance account is tied to your email. Email 2FA is arguably more important than Binance 2FA. Gmail, Outlook, and iCloud all support 2FA—enable it now.

Set Up Withdrawal Whitelist

Before your first deposit, set up a whitelist:

• Wallet → Withdraw → Address Management → Whitelist.
• Allow withdrawals only to addresses on this whitelist.
• This ensures that even if a hacker gains access to your account, they cannot withdraw funds to an unauthorized address.

Post-Installation Workflow Summary

Order	Action	Duration
1	Log In / Register	5 mins
2	Enable 2FA + Backup	3 mins
3	Anti-Phishing Code	1 min
4	App Lock	1 min
5	Privacy Settings	2 mins
6	Email 2FA	5 mins
7	Withdrawal Whitelist	2 mins

Total time: approximately 20 minutes. Beginners should complete all steps before making their first deposit.

Common Excuses for Delay

• "I'll just look around first." → It might be too late when something happens.
• "I don't have much money yet." → Hackers don't discriminate by account size.
• "I'm the only one who uses my phone." → Malware doesn't care whose phone it is.
• "I won't get scammed." → This is the most dangerous mindset.

Just take 20 minutes and do it.

Signs of a Successful Setup

Open the App and check each item:

• 2FA shows as "Enabled" on the Security page.
• The Anti-Phishing Code displays your custom string.
• App Lock is active (test by closing and reopening).
• Binance emails in your inbox show your Anti-Phishing Code.
• At least one address is in your Withdrawal Whitelist.

Only when all are ✅ are you fully equipped.

FAQ

Q: What is the safest way to store the 2FA backup key?
A: Write it on paper and lock it in a drawer, or save it in an offline password manager. Never store it in cloud notes or your email.

Q: Can someone guess my Anti-Phishing Code?
A: It is only shown in emails and isn't public, so guessing is pointless. However, avoid weak strings like "123456".

Q: What if I forget my App Lock password?
A: You will need to uninstall and reinstall the app. However, this will lose your 2FA link if you haven't backed it up, so do not forget the password.

Q: Is my account absolutely safe after these settings?
A: Risks are significantly reduced, but security is a dynamic process. Stay vigilant: never click phishing links and never change passwords on public WiFi.

Further Reading

• Managing Permissions: What Permissions Does the Binance App Need?
• Complete 2FA Setup Guide: Two-Factor Authentication
• Setting Up Anti-Phishing Codes in 5 Minutes