Seed phrase: never share it
Lesson 6 of 39 in the course “Crypto”. Free, with animations and a quiz.
Seed phrase = full access
A seed phrase is the 12 or 24 words that restore your wallet. Anyone who learns them can restore your wallet on their own device in a minute and move every coin. They will not need a password, an SMS or any confirmation. A blockchain transfer cannot be reversed, so the phrase stays with you alone, and offline only.
Real people never ask for it
Support staff, a chat admin, an "exchange manager" or a "wallet sync" site never ask for your seed phrase. A common trick from the picture: a phishing site, a copy of the real one whose address differs by a couple of letters. It asks you to enter the phrase and steals it instantly. Any request for your seed is a scam. No exceptions.
How to store the phrase
Store the phrase by the same rule as the cold wallet in the picture: offline. Paper or a metal plate (it does not burn or get soaked), in a safe spot at home or in a safe. Two copies in different places is better, so a fire or flood cannot cost you access. Never: a photo, the cloud, a messenger, notes, or an email to yourself.
Check yourself
- Who can legitimately ask for your seed phrase?
Correct answer: Nobody, ever. Only you need the seed, to restore your wallet. Anyone asking for it is trying to steal your coins. - Where should you keep the seed phrase?
Correct answer: Offline: on paper or metal. An offline copy cannot be stolen remotely. Your gallery and cloud are tied to the internet and can leak. - What happens if your seed phrase is stolen?
Correct answer: The thief can move all your coins. The phrase gives full access with no password, and blockchain transfers cannot be reversed. If it may have leaked, move your coins to a new wallet right away.
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