How do I securely back up my Trezor recovery phrase?

Understanding the Importance of Your Trezor Recovery Phrase

1. The recovery phrase, often referred to as a seed phrase, is a set of 12, 18, or 24 words generated by your Trezor wallet during setup. This sequence acts as the master key to access all cryptocurrencies stored in the device. Without it, you cannot recover your funds if the device is lost, damaged, or stolen.

2. Unlike passwords that can be reset, the recovery phrase cannot be changed or recovered through customer support. It is entirely your responsibility to store it securely. If someone gains access to your recovery phrase, they have full control over your digital assets.

3. Digital storage methods such as saving the phrase in a text file, email, cloud service, or taking a photo are highly discouraged. These methods expose the phrase to hacking, malware, and unauthorized access, significantly increasing the risk of theft.

4. The safest approach is to keep the recovery phrase offline, also known as 'cold storage.' This minimizes exposure to cyber threats and ensures that physical possession is required to access the information.

5. Never share your recovery phrase with anyone, not even Trezor support staff. Legitimate companies will never ask for your seed phrase under any circumstances.

Best Practices for Physical Storage

1. Write down the recovery phrase manually using pen and paper. Avoid typing it on any device to prevent digital traces. Use clear handwriting and double-check each word against the BIP39 word list to ensure accuracy.

2. Store multiple copies in separate secure locations. For example, one copy can be kept in a home safe, another in a safety deposit box at a bank. This protects against loss due to fire, flood, or theft affecting a single location.

3. Use tamper-evident storage solutions such as metal backup plates made from stainless steel or titanium. These are resistant to water, fire, and corrosion, offering long-term durability compared to paper, which can degrade over time.

4. Avoid labeling the container or envelope containing the phrase with terms like “crypto” or “Bitcoin.” Neutrally label it to avoid drawing attention from intruders who may target valuables.

5. Ensure that trusted family members or executors know the existence and location of the recovery phrase in case of emergencies, but do not disclose the full phrase unless absolutely necessary.

Avoiding Common Security Pitfalls

1. Never enter your recovery phrase into any website, application, or software outside your Trezor device. Phishing sites often mimic legitimate wallet interfaces to steal seed phrases.

2. Do not store the recovery phrase on devices connected to the internet, including computers, smartphones, or USB drives. Malware can easily capture files or clipboard data containing sensitive information.

3. Avoid splitting the phrase and storing parts in different places unless using a proven method like Shamir Backup (available on Trezor Model T). Randomly splitting words renders the phrase useless and irrecoverable.

4. Regularly inspect physical backups for signs of damage, especially paper copies. Replace them if fading, moisture, or wear compromises readability.

5. When traveling with your Trezor, never carry the recovery phrase with the device. If both are lost or seized, your funds become vulnerable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a password manager to store my recovery phrase?

No. Password managers are digital tools connected to the internet, making them vulnerable to breaches. Storing your recovery phrase in such systems defeats the purpose of offline security. Always keep it physically secured and offline.

What should I do if someone sees my recovery phrase?

If you suspect that your recovery phrase has been compromised, immediately transfer all funds to a new wallet created with a fresh recovery phrase. Do not reuse the original device without wiping it and generating a new seed.

Is it safe to take a photo of my recovery phrase and store it on an encrypted device?

No. Even encrypted devices can be hacked or updated in ways that expose data. Photos can be synced to cloud backups without your knowledge. This introduces unacceptable risks. Stick to physical, non-digital storage methods.

Can I write down my recovery phrase on something other than paper?

Yes. Metal engraving or embossing kits designed for crypto backups are recommended. They offer superior resistance to environmental damage. Ensure the material is corrosion-resistant and the engraving is precise and legible.