# Security Tips

To use Degen Ape Bot you must enter your private key.&#x20;

{% hint style="info" %}
Disclaimer: Your private key is only stored and encrypted locally on your machine. The team, of course, has no access to it. &#x20;
{% endhint %}

### Why do I need to enter my private key?&#x20;

Degen Ape Bot interacts directly with Ethereum nodes and routes your orders more quickly than any web-based platform. The private key is needed to create buy/sell orders.

### Basic advice:

Once again, Degen Ape Bot is safe and you can trust us. But a piece of basic advice is:&#x20;

* Create a brand-new wallet specifically for Degen Ape Bot.
* Send only the funds required for your operations to the fresh address.
* Make use of a VPS or a dedicated laptop. &#x20;