Crypto Wallets and Seed Phrases
When you set up a crypto wallet like Ledger, Trezor, or MetaMask, it generates a string of 12-24 simple words called a seed phrase. The wallet uses the seed phrase to create private keys – private keys enable you to send or spend crypto.
In essence, a seed phrase is like a master password that enables you to access the crypto assets associated with the wallet that generated the seed phrase, even if you misplace or delete the wallet. Only YOU know your seed phrase and by now, you know how important it is in the grand scheme of things.
NEVER share your seed phrase with anyone, not even your spouse (this is not an invitation to a fight!). Remember, anyone with your seed phrase can access the associated crypto wallet, so it is important to store it safely. Here is how.
How to Store Your Seed Phrase Safely
If you lose or delete your crypto wallet, you can recreate it just by using your seed phrase. Here is how to store your seed phrase securely in the first place:
- The simplest way to secure your seed phrase is by writing it down on multiple pieces of paper and storing these pieces of paper in multiple locations.
- You could split your seed phrase into multiple groups of words and store each group in a separate location or safe deposit box.
- Some savvy people use specialized services to engrave their seed phrases into durable substances such as stainless steel. You can then store your seed phrase in a safe deposit box.
- You can use an encryption tool to encrypt your seed phrase. You can then store the encrypted seed phrase securely and decrypt it as and when necessary.
If you lose your seed phrase, you lose access to your crypto forever, so be smart and secure your seed phrase today. I recommend attempting to memorize your seed phrase AND implementing one or more of the techniques mentioned in this article. That said, refrain from creating too many copies of your seed phrase – you do not want it to fall in the wrong hands.