BitcoinMadeClear

What is a seed phrase?

A seed phrase is an ordered list of words used by many wallets to restore spending keys. Anyone who gets the necessary recovery information may be able to spend the bitcoin.

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Is it a password?

It is not an ordinary account password. A password may let you log in to a service. Recovery words can rebuild wallet keys, so keeping them private is essential. The order matters, and extra recovery settings may also be needed.

Not every wallet uses the same backup method. Follow the instructions for your setup rather than assuming that a familiar-looking list of words is all you need.

Recovery words are secret recovery informationA receiving address can be shared with a sender. Recovery words and private keys must stay private.Share to receiveA receiving addressKeep privateRecovery words and spending keys
A receiving address can be shared with a sender. Recovery words and private keys must stay private.

When would the words help?

Imagine your phone stops working. A compatible wallet may be able to restore access using your recovery backup. The bitcoin is still on the shared record; you are rebuilding the information needed to spend it.

Now imagine someone messages you, offering to fix the phone problem if you send the words. That could hand them spending access. A person sending you bitcoin does not need your recovery phrase.

What should stay private?

Keep recovery words offline and protected from damage and other people's access. Avoid screenshots, email and shared documents. Do not enter the words into an unexpected website or support message. A backup is useful only if you can recover it without giving it away.

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