There is a chance of a Bitcoin chain split on August 1st to implement segregated witness (SegWit).
In other words Bitcoin could split into two separate coins. This can be a scary scenario for those new to Bitcoin, i know it was for me at first.
So if you hold Bitcoin right now, you will still own Bitcoin after, as well as the other coin if Bitcoin does split; but this is where things can get messy.
Here are 3 simple rules to follow to make sure your ready for the Fork on August 1st...
STEP #1 If you store Bitcoin on an exchange or in an online wallet, such as Coinbase I highly recommend that you move your Bitcoin to a private wallet that is controlled by you such as the desktop wallet ( EXODUS ) https://www.exodus.io/ or a hardware wallet such as a ( KEEPKEY ) https://www.keepkey.com/ like I use.
STEP #2 Avoid buying or selling any Bitcoin ON or SHORTLY AFTER August 1st. This is to insure that while the transition is happening, your Bitcoin is kept safe. If you spend Bitcoin during this time you could be spending more then what you think...
STEP #3 Ensure that YOU control your private keys!!