A seed phrase is a wallet recovery backup. It is often 12 or 24 words. If your phone, computer or hardware wallet fails, the seed phrase can restore access. If someone else gets it, they may be able to steal the funds.

Do not digitize it

Avoid screenshots, email drafts, cloud notes and messaging apps. Digital copies are easy to search, sync and leak.

Backup basics

  • Write the words clearly and in order.
  • Store the backup offline.
  • Protect it from fire, water and accidental disposal.
  • Do not tell anyone where it is unless that is part of a deliberate inheritance plan.

Test recovery

Before moving meaningful value, learn how recovery works with a small wallet. Some users test a restore on a separate device or reset flow before trusting the setup.

Beware recovery websites

Never enter the seed phrase into a website that claims to check, repair or unlock a wallet. Wallet recovery should happen inside trusted wallet software or on a hardware wallet device.

For storage choices, read Bitcoin wallets. For social engineering risk, read common Bitcoin scams.