We’ve been writing about crypto airdrops for 8–9 years now, and sometimes I forget something important:
not every reader has been with us for years.
At AirdropAlert, I pride myself on making airdrop guides beginner-friendly. Still, I regularly get the same question from people who have never participated in an airdrop before:
“How do I actually join one?”
So today, we’re writing this guide for the virgin airdrop farmer.
Everyone is nervous their first time. That’s normal.
And that’s exactly why we’re here — to walk you through it calmly, step by step, using a real example.
Read our updated airdrop farming strategy for 2026.
What Is a Crypto Airdrop (And Why You Should Care)
A crypto airdrop is when a project rewards early users with free tokens for participating in their ecosystem.
Instead of buying tokens, you earn them by:
- testing apps
- running nodes
- using wallets
- providing feedback
- staying active over time
Why do we like airdrops so much?
Because airdrop farming is far more consistent than trading.
Trading requires:
- timing
- emotions
- constant chart watching
Airdrops reward:
- patience
- consistency
- participation
You don’t need to predict prices.
There is no leverage.
You just need to show up early and follow instructions.
That’s why airdrops have paid out billions to regular users over the years.
Before You Start: Understand the Risks
Let’s be very clear about one thing.
Airdrops are not risk-free.
I recently received an email from someone who lost 6 SOL because he clicked a link in a YouTube comment. His wallet was drained instantly.
This is exactly why we write detailed airdrop guides.
Basic risks you must understand:
- fake websites
- wallet drainers
- malicious approvals
- impersonators on X, Discord, and YouTube
One wrong click can cost you real money.
Basic Safety Rules (Non-Negotiable)
Before joining any airdrop, follow these rules:
- never click links from YouTube or Twitter comments
- only use links from trusted sources
- never connect a wallet holding large funds
- read what you are signing before approving
- assume strangers online do not have your best interest
Think of it like real life.
If you’re walking through a dark alley, you don’t flex a Rolex.
That’s basic survival instinct.
So why would you click a random link from John123 in a comment section?
You shouldn’t.
Why We Use Verified Airdrop Guides
At AirdropAlert, all airdrop listings are tested before publication.
Does that mean zero risk? No.
Projects can:
- change requirements later
- update contracts
- act maliciously after launch
But here’s the difference:
We test the flow.
We verify the links.
And if we spot changes or suspicious behavior, we alert the community.
This already protects you from the majority of beginner mistakes.
Still, you need basic street smarts to farm airdrops safely.
How to Join Your First Airdrop (Real Example)
Below is a real step-by-step walkthrough using the MinionLab airdrop campaign.
Follow each step carefully and do not skip anything.
For this example we use the MinionLab airdrop campaign
Step 1: Create your account →
Head to the MinionLab application portal and register using your email or Google login to access the main dashboard.
During registration, make sure you:
- enter a valid email address
- request the verification code
- create your password
- agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
After submitting the form, MinionLab will send a verification code to your email. Enter this code to complete account creation.
Once verified, you’ll be redirected to the main dashboard.
Step 2: Rewards setup →
Go to the Rewards section from the left menu to prepare your account for future airdrop rewards.
Here, you’ll complete three actions:
• connect a Solana wallet such as Phantom
• confirm the wallet address through email
This step links your account activity to your onchain identity.
After confirmation, the wallet address becomes locked and cannot be changed.
This step is required before earning eligible points.
Step 3: Run your Minion Node →
Next, go to your Profile section.
From here, install the MinionLab browser extension to activate your Minion Node.
The Minion Node runs quietly in the background and allows your device to contribute network activity.
Once installed, your Minion Node becomes active automatically.
Step 4: Earn Minion Points →
After your Minion Node is running, points begin accumulating through uptime.
Minion Points are earned based on:
- how long your node stays active
- consistent background uptime
- ongoing participation across epochs
Points update periodically inside the dashboard.
💡 Tip: Installing the desktop application increases your point-earning rate and allows higher long-term accumulation.
Step 5: Tier progression and referrals →
MinionLab uses a tier system that rewards long-term users.
You can unlock higher tiers by:
- accumulating more Minion Points
- inviting friends using your referral link
To access this, go to the Referral Plan section and copy your unique referral link.
Each successful referral contributes toward:
- tier upgrades
- higher earning potential
- stronger overall rewards
This system encourages consistent participation rather than one-time activity.
What happens next?
At this stage, you are fully participating in the airdrop.
Minion Points will later convert into $MINION tokens after the token launch, with allocations based on:
- uptime
- participation duration
- referrals
- tier level
No daily tasks are required.
Keeping your Minion Node active is the main action.
If you’ve never used MetaMask or Phantom, this may feel overwhelming at first.
That’s okay.
But be honest with yourself:
- if you don’t understand wallets
- if you don’t read transactions
- if you panic easily
Then you must slow down and learn the basics first.
Important beginner rules:
- use separate wallets for airdrops
- keep only small amounts on them
- never reuse your main wallet
- learn what approvals mean
Most airdrops are free.
Some require small gas fees.
Treat these wallets like pocket change, not savings accounts.
You can also use protection tools like Wallet Guard, which warn you when a transaction looks malicious.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is joining a crypto airdrop really free?
Most crypto airdrops are free to join.
You usually only need time, a wallet, and basic participation. Some airdrops may require small gas fees, but you should never need to deposit large amounts of money.
Do I need experience to join my first airdrop?
No prior experience is required, but you do need to understand how wallets work.
If you’ve never used MetaMask, Phantom, or any crypto wallet before, take time to learn the basics first. Understanding what you are signing is essential.
How long does it take to receive an airdrop?
Airdrops are not instant.
Most projects use snapshots, seasons, or point systems. It can take weeks or months before points convert into tokens and are distributed.
Can I lose money by joining an airdrop?
Yes, if you are careless.
Most losses happen because people click fake links, sign malicious transactions, or use wallets with too much money. Using separate wallets and trusted sources greatly reduces risk.
How many airdrops can I join at the same time?
There is no fixed limit.
Many users participate in multiple airdrops at once by using the same wallet across different projects. The key is staying organized and only joining campaigns you understand.
Should I use a new wallet for airdrops?
Yes, always.
Never use your main wallet for airdrops. Create a separate wallet with small balances to limit damage in case something goes wrong.
What wallet should I use for my first airdrop?
Use a beginner-friendly wallet supported by the project.
For Ethereum-based airdrops, MetaMask is common. For Solana-based airdrops, Phantom is widely used. Always download wallets from official sources.
Is it safe to follow links from social media?
No.
You should never click random links from comments, DMs, or replies on social media. Always use links from trusted platforms or official project pages.
What happens if I make a mistake during the steps?
In most cases, you can simply continue.
Missing a day or making a small mistake usually does not disqualify you completely. However, signing a malicious transaction can permanently damage your wallet.
Why should I use AirdropAlert to find airdrops?
Because all listed airdrops are reviewed before publication.
While no platform can guarantee zero risk, using verified guides significantly reduces the chance of falling for scams or fake campaigns.
Final Words
Airdrops are one of the best on-ramps into crypto.
They reward:
- curiosity
- consistency
- early participation
But they also require responsibility.
At AirdropAlert, we write guides that are easy to follow and beginner friendly. Still, if you’re completely new, you may need to dig a little deeper into our older beginner content. We’ve been publishing these guides since 2017, so some of the best fundamentals are already there.
Take your time.
Use trusted sources.
Don’t rush.
And remember:
Free crypto is great — losing funds to a scam is not.
If you farm smart, airdrops can be one of the most consistent ways to earn crypto over time.
If you enjoyed this blog, check out our strategy for testnet airdrops.
As always, don’t forget to claim your bonus below on Bybit. See you next time!
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