Self-custody and private-key risk
Self-custody gives the user control of signing keys and removes reliance on an exchange for withdrawals. It also transfers backup, transaction, device, and inheritance responsibilities to the user.
In this guide
Control and responsibility
Anyone with the seed phrase or private key can usually control the assets. Legitimate support staff never need the seed phrase.
Hardware wallets reduce key exposure but do not protect against approving a malicious transaction or sending to the wrong address.
A safer operating process
Back up recovery material offline, verify addresses on the signing device, use small test transfers, and separate long-term storage from daily activity.
Plan for loss, damage, and inheritance without placing all recovery information in one location.
Frequently asked questions
Should I photograph my seed phrase?⌄
Generally no. Cloud and device backups create additional theft paths.
Can a wrong-chain transfer always be recovered?⌄
No. Recovery depends on address compatibility and control of the receiving system.
Review custody risks →