Ledger Live is a popular companion app commonly used with Ledger hardware wallets. While most user experiences are worry-free, there may be cases where the app becomes unavailable (goes down) or when users accidentally download a malicious copy. In this article, we will discuss what happens if your Ledger Live app is unavailable (goes down) and how to stay safe from malicious copies.
When Ledger Live app experiences downtime
When the Ledger Live app experiences downtime, it is usually due to one of several common causes: scheduled maintenance by Ledger, server outages or network connectivity issues, or software bugs and incompatibility with the user’s operating system.
As a result, users may be unable to view account balances, transaction history, and real-time market data. Additionally, the ability to send or receive assets through Ledger Live may be temporarily disrupted.
Are your assets at risk?
No. Ledger Live is only a management interface. Your assets are securely stored on the blockchain and protected by the private keys held inside your Ledger device. The app being unavailable does not affect your ownership or access to your funds.
If Ledger Live is down, you can still manage your assets by connecting your Ledger device to third-party wallets like Electrum or Sparrow Wallet (for Bitcoin), or MetaMask and MyEtherWallet (for Ethereum and EVM networks). You can also check your balances and transactions using blockchain explorers such as blockchair.com or etherscan.io. If you don’t need to make urgent transactions, simply wait for Ledger to restore the app and your assets remain safe on the blockchain.
If your Ledger Live app is hacked or compromised
The main attack vector against Ledger Live is users unknowingly downloading a fake or modified version of the app from phishing websites, online ads, or fraudulent emails. These malicious copies may trick users into entering their 24-word recovery phrase or approving fake transactions.
If a user reveals their recovery phrase, attackers can gain full control over their assets. Malicious software may also simulate false balances or transactions, tricking users into approving transfers.
The main risks in these scenarios are: users may be tricked into revealing their 24-word recovery phrase. If this happens, attackers can gain full control of their assets. Additionally, malicious software may display fake transactions, causing users to unknowingly approve them.
Are your assets at risk?
Yes, our assets are only at risk if you make critical mistakes during use.
Specifically:
- Entering your 24-word recovery phrase into a fake app or phishing website. This is a serious error, as attackers can use the phrase to access and steal all of your assets.
- Signing a transaction without verifying the recipient address and the amount on the Ledger device screen. In this case, your next transaction may go to an attacker instead of the intended recipient.
How can you recognize if their Ledger Live app is genuine?
To recognize if your Ledger Live app is genuine, you should follow a few essential steps. Here’s how to verify authenticity clearly and safely:
Red flags that suggest a fake Ledger Live app
- It prompts you to enter your recovery phrase.
- It redirects you to external sites to complete setup or transactions.
- The app appears in unofficial stores or obscure websites.
- There are grammatical errors or broken UI elements.
- It asks you to download “updates” from outside the app.
Download only from official sources
Always install Ledger Live from:
- The official website: https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live
- Google Play Store: Ledger Live – Android
- Apple App Store: Ledger Live – iOS
Reminder: Never download the app from third-party websites, pop-up ads, or links sent via email or social media. These are common phishing methods.
Check digital signatures (for desktop users)
On both Windows and macOS, Ledger Live installers are digitally signed to confirm their authenticity.
- On Windows: Right-click the installer file → select Properties → go to the Digital Signatures tab. Make sure the publisher is listed as “Ledger” and that the signature is valid.
- On macOS: When opening the installer, macOS will display a warning if the app is from an unverified developer. A genuine Ledger app should be properly signed and pass the system’s verification check without warnings.
What if you can no longer use your Ledger?
If something does go wrong, never fear! You can still access and manage your assets as long as you have your 24-word recovery phrase.
Specifically, you can:
- Restore your seed on any hardware wallet that supports your asset.
- Recover and access your assets using other compatible wallet software.
While it is important to stay vigilant, with proper opsec practices, there is no need to fear.
Looking for further guidance?
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Where can I buy an authentic Ledger Wallet in Vietnam?
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- Official supplier in Vietnam – BitcoinVN Shop is an authorized supplier of Ledger devices in Vietnam, ensuring 100% authentic, high-quality products.
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