What Is a Seed Phrase?

Q: Does My Wallet know my seed phrase?

No. My Wallet is non-custodial, so the phrase stays with you. That is why support cannot reset it.

Quick answer

A seed phrase (also called a recovery phrase or secret words) recreates the private keys behind your wallet. In a non-custodial wallet like My Wallet, you hold those words. Anyone who has them can move your funds, and if you lose them, nobody can restore access for you. Official support (@mysupport) will never ask for your seed phrase.

Why a seed phrase exists

Blockchains have no "forgot password" button.
Your wallet generates the phrase when you create it and derives your keys from it.
The same phrase restores the same wallet on another device.

12 words vs 24 words

In My Wallet, new wallets get a 12-word seed phrase by default (previously 24).
12-word and 24-word phrases are equally reliable for recovery.
When you import, you can enter either length.

What matters more than length: the words are spelled correctly, in the right order, and nobody else has a copy.

What a seed phrase is not

Not your password or Face ID. Those only unlock the app on one device.
Not your public address. That is what you share to receive crypto.
Not something support needs. No real service will ever ask for it.

How to store a seed phrase

Based on the Help Center guidance:

Screenshot or photo on your wallet device: unsafe.
Screenshot on another device: better, but still weak.
Password manager: convenient, but needs extra care.
Encrypted offline digital storage: a strong option.
Paper in a secure place: a good option if protected from damage.

Devices with internet access can be hacked, and paper can be damaged, so think about both risks.

Check your backup regularly

Read your backup from time to time to make sure it is legible and complete.
Do this before you need it, not during a lost-phone emergency.

Common mistakes

Keeping the phrase in your camera roll or cloud photos.
Typing it into a website, form, or "support" chat.
Sending it in a message, even to yourself.
Keeping one copy that can be lost or damaged.

Seed phrase vs private key

The seed phrase is the root. Private keys for individual accounts are generated from it. Protecting the phrase protects every account that comes from it. See What Is a Private Key?.

How it works in My Wallet

When you create a wallet, tap Show words, write them down, then confirm 3 of them.
When you import, choose 12/24 Secret Words and enter your phrase.
Later, you can view it in Settings → Security → Back Up. Never do this while sharing your screen.

Start with a secure wallet

Download My Wallet to explore crypto with self-custody—you hold the keys.

FAQ

Can I change my seed phrase?

No. A new seed phrase means a new wallet. If you think your phrase was exposed, create a new wallet and move your funds to it.

What if I lose my seed phrase?

If the app is still unlocked, back up the phrase right away from Settings → Security → Back Up. Without the phrase, access to the wallet cannot be restored.

Does My Wallet know my seed phrase?

No. My Wallet is non-custodial, so the phrase stays with you. That is why support cannot reset it.

Is a 12-word phrase safe enough?

Yes. 12-word and 24-word phrases are equally reliable when generated by the wallet and kept secret.

Will support ask for my seed phrase?

No. Official support never reaches out first and never asks for your seed phrase. Anyone who does is a scammer.