If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve heard things like:

"Bitcoin will make you rich!"

"Buy this coin now it’s the next big thing!"

"If you don’t invest now, you’ll miss out!"

Slow down. Breathe. The crypto world is exciting, yes but it’s not magic. And it’s not something you dive into just because your cousin or TikTok told you to.

Let’s walk through the Top 5 things you MUST do before buying any crypto especially if you’re in Uganda, Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, or anywhere else where financial scams and poor education are common.

1. Educate Yourself First. No Shortcuts

If you don’t understand it, don’t put your money in it.

Crypto is not a gamble it’s technology.

And like any tech (think smartphones, internet, or mobile money), it takes learning to use it right.

Start with:

1. What is blockchain?
2. What is Bitcoin vs. Ethereum?
3. How do wallets work?
4. What is a seed phrase?
5. What’s a scam vs. a real project?

📚 Where to learn:

1. This blog (Cryptolised Academy 👏)
2. YouTube (e.g., Whiteboard Crypto, Finematics)
3. Podcasts like Bankless or Crypto Voices
4. Free courses (e.g., Binance Academy, Coinbase Learn)

Don’t spend a shilling until you understand the basics.

. Join a Real Community – Not a WhatsApp "Quick Profits" Group

You’ll hear a lot of noise in crypto spaces: “gurus,” Telegram channels, and quick-money WhatsApp groups promising 2x or 5x returns.

🚩 Red flag.

These are often scams. Or pump-and-dump groups where you’re the last to know when to exit.

Instead, find real communities where people:

1. Ask questions without shame
2. Share news, tools, and tutorials
3. Talk about wallets, projects, and safety

Examples:

1. Local meetups (e.g., Crypto Barazas in Nairobi or Kampala)
2. Twitter/X crypto educators from Africa
3. Telegram groups with moderators
4. Discord servers from real projects

Remember: Crypto is global, but local voices matter.

3. Never Invest What You Can’t Afford to Lose

This isn’t a motivational quote, it’s a survival rule.

Crypto prices go up and down. Sometimes fast.

That’s why:

1. Don’t borrow to invest.
2. Don’t use rent or school fees.
3. Don’t sell your boda boda, goats, or land.
4. Start with as little as $5 or $10 just to learn.

Rule of thumb:

Invest in crypto like you’re paying to learn. If it grows great.

If it crashes the lesson was worth it.

4. Understand Security Before You Buy Anything

Before you ever touch an exchange or wallet app:

✅ Learn what a private key is

✅ Know what a seed phrase is and how to store it

✅ Understand wallet scams and fake apps

✅ Know how to avoid phishing links (fake websites that steal your info)

Your phone is your bank. Treat it like gold.

And never say, “I’ll figure it out later” — that’s how crypto disappears.

5. Research Projects, Not Just Prices

Don’t just chase coin prices going up. Ask:

1. What does this project do?
2. Who created it?
3. Is it solving a real problem in Africa or the world?
4. Is there a whitepaper (roadmap/mission)?
5. Are there any real users?

For example:

1. Bitcoin is digital gold.
2. Ethereum powers decentralized apps (DeFi, NFTs, Web3).
3. Stablecoins (like USDT/USDC) are used for saving or sending dollars.

If a coin promises “guaranteed profits,” walk away.

Bonus: Red Flags to Avoid Like Ebola

❌ “Double your money in 7 days”

❌ “VIP investment group” with locked profits

❌ “Pay to join” investment apps

❌ Pressure to act NOW or miss out

❌ Projects without a website or real founders

If it sounds too good to be true — it is.

TL;DR – 5 Things to Do Before You Buy Crypto

1. Educate yourself – learn the basics first
2. Join a real community – avoid hype groups
3. Invest only what you can afford to lose
4. Secure your wallet and know your keys
5. Research real projects, not just price charts