The Current State and Ideal Future of User Security in Web3

Security is not a destination but a journey.

One of the most critical challenges we face is user security. Despite technological advancements that have brought us to this decentralized era, ours included, the persistent threat of malicious actors and social engineering exploits continues to undermine user confidence and safety. At GoPlus, our mission is to enhance security in the Web3 ecosystem, but we recognize that technology alone is not a panacea. This long-form piece will explore the current state of user security, the role of technology such as GoPlus SecNet, and the indispensable importance of user education and awareness in achieving a more secure Web3 environment.

The Current State of User Security in Web3

User security in Web3 is a multifaceted issue. While the decentralization of applications and services promises greater control and privacy for users, it also presents unique challenges. Traditional security measures often fall short in this new paradigm, leaving users vulnerable to a variety of threats. Among these, social engineering stands out as one of the most pervasive.

Social engineering attacks exploit human psychology rather than technical vulnerabilities. Malicious actors use tactics such as phishing, pretexting, and baiting to deceive users into revealing sensitive information or performing actions that compromise their security. These attacks can be highly sophisticated, like with Lazarus, leveraging automation and other tools to target retail users and employees at Web3 companies on a large scale.

In this environment, the limitations of relying solely on tech become painfully apparent. Even the most robust technical defenses can be circumvented by a well-crafted social engineering attack, let alone the uprise of deep fakes and malicious actors leveraging AI technology. As such, a comprehensive approach to security must encompass both technological solutions and human factors.

The Promise of Technological Solutions

As we mentioned, at GoPlus, we are committed to advancing user security through innovative technologies. Our APIs provide crucial security features that help protect users from various threats. However, the cornerstone of our vision for a more secure Web3 is GoPlus SecNet and what comes after that.

GoPlus SecNet is a secure blockchain RPC (Remote Procedure Call) service designed to facilitate secure interactions with blockchains. By integrating the security features of the GoPlus Network, SecNet provides a fortified layer of protection for users across multiple blockchains, including Ethereum and BNB Chain. With your permission, it injects itself into your Metamask wallet.

You can then further enhance your security by activating the SecWareX Personal SecHub, a tool that offers advanced protection features tailored to your individual needs. This combination of secure infrastructure and user-specific safeguards makes us very bullish on the ever-improving quest for better user security.

Despite these advancements, we acknowledge that no technology can offer absolute protection. The nature of threats in the Web3 space means that security is a continuous process, requiring constant vigilance and adaptation.

The Unmistakeable Role of Education and Awareness

While tech is a vital component of user security, it is not sufficient on its own. The human element is equally important, and this is where education and awareness come into play. Users must be equipped with the knowledge and skills to recognize and respond to potential threats.

Security education should cover a broad spectrum of topics, from basic concepts like password management and recognizing phishing attempts to more advanced subjects such as secure transaction practices and understanding smart contract vulnerabilities. Lastly, you should train your peers and be trained to understand how social engineering works, how it starts, which methods are employed, and how “pigs are slaughtered.” Continuous learning is essential, as the tactics used by malicious actors are constantly evolving.

We strongly believe that fostering a culture of security awareness is fundamental to protecting users. This involves not only providing educational resources but also encouraging a mindset of skepticism and caution. Users should be empowered to question unexpected requests, verify sources of information, and report suspicious activities.

Security as an Ongoing Mission

In conclusion, the state of user security in Web3 is one that is both challenging and dynamic. While technological solutions like GoPlus SecNet provide essential defenses, they must be complemented by robust user education and awareness. Security is not a destination but a journey; it is a mission that requires continuous effort and adaptation.

We envision a future where users can interact with blockchains confidently and securely. However, we must accept that we might never reach a utopian state where bad actors do not exist, and exploitation is entirely eradicated. Our goal is to create an environment where security measures and user vigilance are sufficiently evolved to diminish risks and protect against the majority of threats.

We are committed to this mission, continually developing our product suite and educational initiatives to support a safer Web3 ecosystem. By working together, leveraging the tech, fostering awareness, and maintaining a proactive and transparent stance, we can create a more secure and resilient future for all users.