SECURITY

How Crypto Wallets Work

Learn how crypto wallets work, including addresses, private keys, seed phrases and the basics of protecting digital assets.

Crypto wallet security
Security Guide

Protecting Your Digital Assets

How Crypto Wallets Work

What Is a Crypto Wallet?

A crypto wallet is a tool that helps users manage the information required to interact with blockchain networks and digital assets.

Wallets are commonly associated with addresses and cryptographic keys. The wallet itself does not simply work like a physical wallet holding coins.

Understanding the difference between a wallet, an address, a private key and a seed phrase is an important foundation for crypto security.

WALLET TYPES

Different Ways to Manage Crypto

Crypto wallets can be designed in different ways depending on how users access and protect their keys.

01

Software Wallet

A wallet application that allows users to interact with blockchain networks through a computer, browser or mobile device.

02

Hardware Wallet

A dedicated physical device designed to provide an additional layer of protection for sensitive cryptographic information.

03

Custodial Wallet

A service where another provider manages the private-key infrastructure on behalf of the user.

KEY INFORMATION

Address, Private Key and Seed Phrase

These terms appear frequently when learning about crypto wallets and security.

01

Public Address

An address can generally be shared with others when receiving compatible digital assets.

02

Private Key

Private cryptographic information that may authorize transactions or other actions involving assets.

03

Seed Phrase

A recovery phrase that can be used by compatible wallet systems to restore access to wallet information.

HOW IT WORKS

From Wallet to Blockchain

A wallet provides the tools required for a user to interact with a blockchain network.

STEP 01

Select Destination

The user specifies the destination address and the amount involved in the transaction.

STEP 02

Authorize

The wallet uses the relevant cryptographic information to authorize the transaction.

STEP 03

Network Confirmation

The transaction is submitted to the relevant blockchain network for processing and confirmation.

SECURITY FIRST

Protect the Information That Protects Your Wallet

Wallet security starts with understanding which information can be shared and which information must remain private.

Public Address Used to receive compatible digital assets.
Private Key Sensitive information that should remain private.
Seed Phrase Keep recovery information confidential and secure.
Password Use strong credentials and avoid sharing them.
SECURITY BEST PRACTICES

Simple Habits for Better Wallet Security

Good security practices can reduce common risks when interacting with digital assets.

Protect Your Seed Phrase

Keep recovery information private and avoid entering it into unknown websites or applications.

Verify Addresses

Carefully check destination information before confirming transactions.

Beware of Phishing

Be cautious with unexpected links, messages and requests for wallet information.

Keep Software Updated

Use trusted wallet software and keep supported applications and devices updated.

KEEP LEARNING

Build Stronger Crypto Security Knowledge

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