Before clicking “Register,” your digital environment is key. This setup minimizes future headaches related to verification or access.

1. Network Preparation: Use a stable, private internet connection. While a VPN might be necessary for access in some regions, ensure it is reputable and connects to a stable location (e.g., Singapore, Hong Kong). Avoid frequently switching server locations.
2. Document Scan: Prepare a high-quality, clear scan or photo of your government-issued ID (Passport is highly recommended for international platforms). Ensure all four corners are visible, text is legible, and there is no glare.
3. Phone Number: Have your Chinese mobile phone number ready. This number must be active and able to receive SMS verification codes. It will be a primary recovery method.
4. Email Address: Create a dedicated, secure email account (e.g., ProtonMail, Tutanota) solely for your crypto activities. Do not use this email for social media or other public registrations.

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Now, navigate to the official OKX website. Be extremely cautious of phishing sites—always double-check the URL.

1. Click the “Sign Up” button, usually located in the top right corner.
2. Select Registration Method: Choose “Phone Number.”
3. Country/Region: Select “China (+86)” from the dropdown menu.
4. Enter Your Number: Input your full Chinese mobile number.
5. The Crucial Step – Referral Code: Look for a field labeled “Referral Code,” “Invitation Code,” or “Promo Code.” This is often optional or found in an “Advanced” section. This is where you input the code to activate your fee rebate. Carefully enter: BTC699
6. Complete the SMS verification, create a strong password, and agree to the terms.

[!CAUTION] Verification is Mandatory: An unverified account has severe limitations. You must complete KYC (Know Your Customer) to deposit, trade, or withdraw. Attempting to bypass this is a surefire way to get your account frozen.

This step links your identity to your account, a non-negotiable requirement for reputable exchanges.

1. Navigate to “Verification” or “KYC” in your account center.
2. Select the appropriate verification level (usually “Individual” and the highest tier available for full access).
3. Document Upload: Follow the on-screen prompts to upload the pre-prepared ID scan. The system will guide you for a live selfie. Ensure good lighting and that your face matches the ID.
4. Residential Address Proof: You may need to provide proof of address (e.g., a utility bill or bank statement from the last 3 months). Have this document ready.
5. Submit and wait for review, which can take from a few minutes to several hours.

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This is the most critical operational phase to avoid bank card issues.

1. Fiat On-Ramp: After KYC approval, go to “Buy Crypto” or “Deposit.” OKX offers P2P trading and third-party payment gateways.
2. P2P Trading Best Practices:
   • Use the platform’s official P2P marketplace.
   • Select Verified Merchants with high completion rates and positive long-term history.
   • Small, Test Transactions First: For your first few transactions, use small amounts (e.g., 500 RMB) to test the flow.
   • Communicate Within the App: Never move communication to Telegram or WhatsApp. All chat and payment proof must be on-platform.
   • Clear Payment Notes: When transferring money via Alipay/WeChat Pay, DO NOT include words like “Bitcoin,” “BTC,” “Crypto,” or “OKX” in the payment备注 (notes). Use ambiguous terms like “product payment” or “service fee.”
3. Card Linking (If Available): If linking a card directly, use a secondary debit card from a bank you don’t use for primary salary deposits. Never use a credit card for crypto purchases due to high fees and potential cash advance charges.

Securing your account is an ongoing process, not a one-time setup.

1. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Immediately set up 2FA using an authenticator app like Google Authenticator or Authy. This is more secure than SMS-based 2FA.
2. Anti-Phishing Code: Set a unique anti-phishing code in your account settings. OKX will include this code in all genuine emails, helping you identify phishing attempts.
3. Withdrawal Address Whitelisting: Activate this feature. It means you can only withdraw crypto to pre-approved wallet addresses you have saved. This prevents hackers from draining your funds even if they access your account.
4. API Key Management: If you plan to use trading bots or portfolio trackers, create API keys with STRICTLY “Read-Only” or “Spot Trading” permissions. Never grant withdrawal permissions to a third-party service.
5. Regular Security Checks: Periodically review your active sessions and linked devices, logging out any you don’t recognize.