The original article is posted on CoinMarketCap.

Web3 is one of the most hyped industries of the last few years. At the same time, it remains one of the most mystified to a common user. Consequently, this brings the lack of trust to the play.

Trust remains one of the biggest hurdles for the industry. But trust isn’t just about regulation – it’s about how projects operate, communicate, and secure their users. 

This article breaks down how crypto projects can establish credibility and what users should check to identify a truly reliable platform.

Where the scepticism roots from

Skepticism surrounding Web3 isn’t about the tech – it’s about execution. Blockchain itself isn’t the problem; it’s how projects handle security, compliance, and usability that determines trust. 

Poor development practices, security flaws, and regulatory gray areas have made mainstream users hesitant, and rightfully so. When smart contracts get exploited for millions, when unclear regulations leave investors stranded, and when crypto interfaces feel like navigating a cockpit, skepticism isn’t just expected—it’s inevitable.

From the other end, regulatory uncertainty keeps institutions at arm’s length, as different jurisdictions enforce fragmented policies. 

Security risks from smart contract exploits make even seasoned users wary of engaging with new protocols. Cumbersome user experiences mean mainstream adoption remains a work in progress. And then there’s market volatility, which, for all its opportunities, can make even the most promising projects look unstable overnight.

Trust isn’t built on promises – it’s built on execution. Until crypto projects prioritize security, transparency, and usability, skepticism will remain a defining force in the market. 

But how to do that properly?

Everything begins at security

With illicit cryptocurrency transactions reaching $46.1 billion in 2023, security and compliance are no longer optional—they’re essential. 

Here comes a rule of thumb: Web3 projects must balance compliance with decentralization to remain credible. 

That means integrating robust KYC/AML processes, ensuring transparent financial reporting, and demonstrating an active compliance to legal standards. While decentralization remains a core principle, operating in regulatory limbo only fuels skepticism.

Security is another non-negotiable pillar of trust. Regular smart contract audits help identify vulnerabilities before they turn into exploits. Multi-signature wallets add an extra layer of protection, preventing unauthorized access and reducing single points of failure. Real-time monitoring systems detect anomalies before they escalate, ensuring users aren’t blindsided by security breaches.

For users and investors, these measures separate serious projects from speculative experiments. 

Let users know why you are trusted

A well-secured, compliant platform doesn’t just reassure regulators. 

Instead, it reassures users that their assets and data won’t vanish overnight. 

Establishing trust in crypto requires a commitment to education and open communication. The complexity of blockchain technology often deters mainstream adoption, making clear and accessible resources essential. 

A well-informed user base is less susceptible to misinformation, security breaches, and impulsive financial decisions.

Leading crypto firms prioritize structured educational initiatives to demystify the industry. 

Coinbase, for example, integrates learning into its platform with Coinbase Earn, rewarding users for engaging with educational content. By simplifying onboarding and maintaining an intuitive interface, it fosters confidence among both retail and institutional investors. 

Similarly, WhiteBIT has built a reputation for transparency, reinforcing trust through third-party audits and verifiable proof of reserves. As one of the exchanges to receive a AAA security rating from CER.live, it actively communicates security measures and fund safety to users. 

At the same time, Binance stands out with its SAFU emergency fund, up and ready to cover the losses of users in cases of exploits, while Bybit utilises a robust multi-signature system for withdrawals.

Crucially, the volume of exchange does not ensure its security. Bybit, while being one of the largest exchanges worldwide, suffered a $1 billion-worth exploit on February 21. According to onchain data, the attacker appears to have gained access to Bybit’s hot wallets. This once again underscores the necessity of cold storage and robust security measures.

What’s more, after the collapse of the infamous FTX exchange, custodial providers have grown in popularity as they provide safe custody of assets, reducing the risk of loss for institutional clients. Many leading exchanges are integrating with custody providers such as Fireblocks to provide an even higher level of security. 

Consistent, open communication also plays a crucial role. Regular updates on development progress and security enhancements provide reassurance to users, preventing speculation and misinformation from taking hold. A majority of trusted exchanges actively engage with their communities through social media, offering clarity on regulatory changes, product updates, and security enhancements.

Trust in crypto isn’t built overnight. It’s a product of continuous education, transparent operations, and active engagement.

Now, for users: how to define a trusted exchange?

First off:

• a reliable platform maintains active community engagement, 

regularly updating users on security measures, platform developments, and service enhancements. Transparent leadership – where the team is publicly identifiable and responsive to user concerns – fosters trust and credibility.

Secondly, technical trust signals also play a crucial role. Look for platforms with 

• liquidity locks, which prevent sudden fund withdrawals that could indicate fraudulent activity. 

• regular third-party security audits and compliance updates. They demonstrate a commitment to protecting user assets and adhering to industry standards. 

Exchanges with proven fund transparency, such as proof-of-reserves verification, offer additional reassurance.

A strong user protection framework, responsive support, and visible regulatory compliance further differentiate trustworthy exchanges. If an exchange lacks clear information about its security policies, leadership, or liquidity safeguards, consider it a red flag.