That's right, security should come first. Also, you need to minimize the risks as much as possible, then you will not be able to lose everything.
I know only one way to minimize risks when trading, it is to work only with large exchanges, and everything else depends on luck.
You're right, I've been following the rule to minimize the risks but sometimes i'm wondering how others haven't known at least this basic knowledge. It's hard feeling especially when you only have little money to lose so learn act quickly when you need to. Newbie people need to get educated to not fall into this trap. Most people need to be careful though.