Frequently Asked Questions
A seed phrase, also known as a recovery phrase or mnemonic phrase, is a list of words that serves as a backup to your Bitcoin wallet. It’s used to restore access to your wallet and funds in case you lose your device or forget your password.
Think of it as a master password, but in the form of a series of words.
BIP39 is a standard for generating and storing Bitcoin seed phrases using a set of 2,048 words. BIP stands for Bitcoin Improvement Proposal, which is a formal proposal for improving the Bitcoin protocol.
BIP39 was created by the Bitcoin community as a way to make it easier for people to backup and restore their wallets. It uses a combination of words to represent the seed phrase, which is derived from the wallet’s private key.
This standard is widely adopted by many cryptocurrency wallets and is considered a secure and reliable method for generating and storing seed phrases.
No, it is extremely unlikely that someone can guess your seed phrase.
A standard seed phrase consists of 12-24 words, each chosen from a dictionary of 2,048 words. This corresponds to a high level of entropy, typically 128 bits or more, which is considered cryptographically secure.
To put it into perspective, with 12 words and 2,048 possible choices for each word, the total number of possible seed phrases is approximately 5 duodecillion (5.44 x 10^39). This is an enormously large number, far beyond what can be reasonably comprehended.
Furthermore, not only do the words have to be guessed correctly, but they also have to be in the exact right order, which makes it even more difficult.
A seed phrase and private keys are two related but distinct concepts in the context of Bitcoin wallets.
Private keys are the raw, randomly generated strings of characters that are used to control and manage a Bitcoin wallet. They are the actual keys that unlock the wallet and allow transactions to be signed and broadcast to the network.
A seed phrase, on the other hand, is a human-readable representation of the private key. The seed phrase is not the actual key, but rather a way to encode and store the private key in a more user-friendly format.
Yes, but it’s not recommended to use the same seed phrase for multiple wallets. A seed phrase is a unique backup of a single wallet’s private key, and using it for multiple wallets can compromise the security of all associated wallets.
If multiple wallets share the same seed phrase, an attacker who gains access to the seed phrase can potentially access and control all of the associated wallets. This increases the risk of financial loss and undermines the security benefits of using a seed phrase in the first place.
If someone gets access to your seed phrase, they have full control over your wallet and its associated funds. This means that they can send your Bitcoin to any address they choose.
A secure seed phrase is typically generated when you set up a new Bitcoin wallet. The wallet will guide you through the process of creating a seed phrase.
No, it’s not recommended to store your seed phrase in a password manager. Because it may not provide the necessary level of protection.
Password managers are often connected to the internet and may be vulnerable to hacking or other security risks.
Instead, consider using a secure offline storage method, such as a metal backup, in a safe or a secure container, where it is protected from unauthorized access.
No, it’s not safe to store your seed phrase in a cloud storage service. Cloud storage services are connected to the internet and are vulnerable to hacking and other security risks.
Storing your seed phrase in a cloud storage service could expose it to unauthorized access. Additionally, cloud storage services may also have access to your data, which could further compromise the security of your seed phrase.
It’s also important to note that you should not take a photo of your seed phrase, as it could end up being automatically uploaded to a cloud storage service through your device’s backup or syncing features.
Instead, consider storing your seed phrase in a physical location that is difficult to access, such as a safe or a secure container, and use a tamper-proof method like a metal backup to protect it.
Having a metal recovery phrase backup is important because it provides a secure and reliable way to store your seed phrase, which is the key to accessing your Bitcoin wallet. The physical device is designed to withstand extreme conditions, such as fire, water, and physical damage.
Seed Keys are metal recovery phrase backup devices designed to securely store your Bitcoin seed phrase.
Seed Keys are made of 316L stainless steel, a high-quality, corrosion-resistant metal that is designed to withstand extreme conditions. This durable material ensures that your seed phrase remains secure and intact, even in the face of physical damage or environmental stress.
Seed Keys are extremely durable and designed to withstand extreme conditions, including:
- High temperatures: resistant to fire and heat damage
- Water and moisture: resistant to corrosion and rust
- Physical damage: resistant to scratches, bends, and breaks
Made from 316L stainless steel, Seed Keys are built to last and provide a secure and reliable way to store your seed phrase.
No, but Seed Keys devices can be made tamper-evident by using the pull-tight seals that come with the device or by storing the device in a tamper-evident bag. These additional security measures ensure that any attempts to access the seed phrase will be evident, providing an additional layer of protection.
Yes, Seed Keys devices are compatible with all Bitcoin wallets that use a standard BIP39, BIP44, or SLIP39 seed phrase. This means that you can store the seed phrase for any wallet that supports this standard, regardless of the wallet’s brand or type.
Example of popular compatible brands:
- BitBox
- BlueWallet
- Coldcard
- Electrum
- Ledger
- Phoenix
- SafePal
- SeedSigner
- Sparrow
- Tangem
- Trezor
Yes, Seed Keys can be used with any cryptocurrency that uses a BIP39, BIP44, or SLIP39 seed phrase. This includes many popular cryptocurrencies, such as Ethereum, Litecoin, and others.
Yes, you can personalize your Seed Keys device to a certain extent. There is an extra key that can be used to stamp two more 4-letter words, providing an extra layer of identification or security.
You also have the option to select your pull-tight seal color, which can be used to differentiate backups. Seals come in green, yellow, and red.
When you no longer need your metal backup, it is a good practice to split the keys and dispose of them in separate locations. This ensures that no one will be able to access your Bitcoin wallet.
Even after you sent your coins, the transaction history is still available with your recovery phrase. So, it’s essential to properly dispose of your Seed Keys to maintain your financial privacy.
No, you don’t need to share your seed phrase with Seed Keys, or with any company.
When you order a key set, blank metal keys are provided for you to stamp manually. This ensures you maintain complete control over your seed phrase and keep it fully confidential.
Currently, Bitcoin is the only accepted payment method. You can make payments on-chain or via the Lightning Network.
Yes. Seed Keys supports bulk orders via wholesale channels. Bulk pricing and logistics solutions are available for businesses, resellers, or institutional needs. Visit the Contact page to submit a request via the form.
Orders are processed and shipped as quickly as possible. If you need to cancel, or modify, your order, fill out the contact form on the Support page as soon as possible. Every effort will be made to accommodate your request, but please note that it may not be possible to cancel orders that have already been processed or shipped. In such cases, you may need to follow the Refund and Return Policy instead.
Yes, Seed Keys ships worldwide to most countries.
However, some exceptions apply due to international restrictions and logistical limitations.
Refer to the Shipping Policy for more information on shipping availability and restrictions.
The cost of shipping varies depending on your location and the shipping method you choose.
You can estimate the shipping cost by adding the items you’d like to purchase to your cart and proceeding to checkout. The system will provide you with a quote for shipping based on your location and the shipping options available.
For more detailed information on shipping costs and methods, please refer to the Shipping Policy.
Shipping times vary depending on the shipping method and your location. Estimated delivery times are provided during checkout, and tracking information is available once your order is shipped.
Refer to the Shipping Policy for more information on delivery timeframes and tracking.
Yes, you can track your order.
Once your order is shipped, you will receive a tracking number that allows you to monitor the status of your package. You can use this tracking number on Fastship to track the progress of your shipment and estimate the delivery date.
If your order is taking longer than expected to arrive, please check the shipping tracking information to see if there are any updates on the status of your package.
If the tracking information indicates that the package was delivered, but you haven’t received it, please check with your local post office or delivery service to see if they have any information about the package.
If you’re still unable to locate your order, please fill out the contact form on the Support page.
Please note that the Shipping Policy outlines the terms and conditions for lost packages, and customer support will do its best to assist you within those guidelines.
If damage occurred during transit, retain all packaging materials and damaged items, and fill out the contact form on the Support page within 48 hours, including your order number and a detailed description of the issue.
Please note that the Shipping Policy outlines the terms and conditions for damaged packages, including liability and insurance coverage.
Seed Keys offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with your purchase, you can request a full refund within 30 days of delivery.
Please note that returns are accepted only if the keys are in their original condition, with no stamps or alterations.
For more information, visit the Money-Back Guarantee page.
Seed Keys offers a lifetime warranty on metal seed phrase backups.
This warranty covers manufacturing defects, material failures, accidental damage, and normal wear and tear. And it excludes damage caused by misuse, tampering, or deliberate destruction.
This warranty is valid for the lifetime of the product, defined as the period during which Seed Keys remain in the possession of the original user. And it is non-transferable.
To make a warranty claim, proof of purchase and photo/video documentation are required.
If a valid warranty claim is made, Seed Keys will replace the defective product free of charge.
For more information, visit the Warranty page.
To initiate a refund or an exchange, submit a request through the form on the Support page, including your order number and a brief explanation of the reason for the return or exchange.
Yes, you are responsible for the cost of return shipping. Please use a trackable shipping method and retain a record of the tracking number, as you will be responsible for ensuring the package is delivered safely.
You will receive your refund in Bitcoin.
Refunds are processed via the same method as the original payment (on-chain or Lightning Network) whenever possible. However, in cases where on-chain fees are excessively high, refunds may be sent via the Lightning Network to minimize fees, even if the original payment was made on-chain.
Refunds are issued for the original amount of Bitcoin paid, minus any applicable transaction fees.
To securely set up your Seed Keys, you’ll need:
- Your Seed Keys plate
- The orange stamping jig
- The letter punch set
- A hammer (not included)
The 5-step process is straightforward. But it can take around 15–20 minutes to complete, as it’s essential to focus on accuracy rather than speed.
- Stamp the first 4 letters of the first word on key 1, ensuring the correct orientation.
- Repeat the process for the remaining words, matching each word to its key.
- Remove the keys from the plate, by rotating them around their horizontal axis.
- Add the keys to the key ring, maintaining the correct order.
- Secure the keys with the cable tie, to activate the tamper-evident feature.
For a detailed step-by-step walkthrough, read the how-to guide.
Yes, stamping only the first four letters of each word is a secure way to store your seed phrase. This is because each word is uniquely identified by its first four letters, as confirmed in the characteristics of the BIP-39 word list. As a result, you can recover your wallet by entering just the first four letters of each word, making the recovery process easier and faster.
It depends on the length of your seed phrases.
If you have two 12-word seed phrases, you can store them on a single Seed Keys ring, but you need to be careful to maintain the correct word order for each phrase.
However, if you have a single 24-word seed phrase, it will all the keys, and you will not be able to store an additional seed phrase on the same device.
To keep your Seed Keys safe and secure, it’s essential to store it in a way that protects them from physical damage, loss, and unauthorized access. Here are some recommendations:
- Store it in a secure location, such as a safe or a security deposit box.
- Avoid storing it in a location that is easily accessible to others, such as a desk drawer or a shared living space.
- Use pull-tight seals, a tamper-evident bag or a secure container to store it.
- Consider splitting up your recovery phrase and storing a key in a different location.
- Keep it separate from any other sensitive information, such as your wallet or other personal documents.
- Limit access to your Seed Keys to only those who need to know, and make sure they understand the importance of keeping the information secure.
- Establish a protocol for emergency situations, such as incapacitation or death, to ensure that your loved ones can access your assets according to your wishes.
If you suspect that your Seed Keys is compromised, it’s essential to take immediate action to protect your Bitcoin. Here are some steps to follow:
- Check if your funds are still in your wallet. If they are, proceed to the next step.
- Create a new wallet with a new seed phrase.
- Move your funds to the new wallet as soon as possible.
- Create a new metal backup (such as a new Seed Keys) with the new seed phrase and store it in a secure location.
If you lose your Seed Keys, you may still be able to access your Bitcoin wallet and funds if you have memorized your seed phrase or have an extra backup of it. Alternatively, if your hardware wallet is still set up, you can also access your funds.
However, in either case, it’s essential to consider your seed phrase as compromised and take immediate action to secure your funds. This means sending your funds to a new wallet with a new seed phrase as soon as possible.
If you have not taken any of these precautions and you lose your Seed Keys, you may lose access to your Bitcoin wallet. Unfortunately, in this case, it’s unlikely that you will be able to recover your funds.
To recover your Bitcoin wallet using Seed Keys, follow these steps:
- Locate your Seed Keys and ensure that it is intact and has not been tampered with.
- Open your wallet software or app and select the option to restore or recover your wallet.
- Enter the first 4 letters of each word from your Seed Keys, in the correct order, into the wallet software or app.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the recovery process.
Once the recovery process is complete, your wallet should be restored, and you should be able to access your funds.
Still Have Questions?
If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to customer service.