When Shift Happens Podcast

E149: Trezor CEO: How 98% of Crypto Users Are Vulnerable to HACKS (you could be next)

17 snips
Nov 27, 2025
Matej Zak, CEO of Trezor and co-creator of the first hardware wallet, discusses the shocking reality that 98% of crypto users are susceptible to hacks. He explains the risks of trusting exchanges versus embracing self-custody, making a compelling case for why proper ownership is essential. Matej also dives into the significance of hardware wallets, highlights the challenges for widespread adoption, and warns about the vulnerabilities of popular wallet options. His insights into open-source security and innovations in wallet technology provide a fascinating glimpse into the future of crypto safety.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
ANECDOTE

1953 Monetary Reform Shaped Czech Skepticism

  • Matej recounts the 1953 Czechoslovak monetary reform where citizens lost over 90% of savings overnight.
  • He links that trauma to Czech skepticism of institutions and explains why Bitcoin resonates locally.
ADVICE

Hold Your Keys To Keep Control

  • Use self-custody to hold crypto so no intermediary can seize or block access to your funds.
  • Control private keys directly to move funds anytime without asking permission.
ADVICE

Convert And Self‑Custody Before Crises

  • Combine converting savings to Bitcoin with self-custody on a hardware wallet to resist confiscation.
  • Use hardware backups disconnected from custodians so states or banks can't seize your assets.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app