How do I set an auto-lock period on Trezor?

Understanding Auto-Lock in Trezor Devices

1. The auto-lock feature on a Trezor hardware wallet is not something users manually configure through a setting labeled “auto-lock period.” Instead, the device automatically locks itself after a period of inactivity. This behavior is built into the firmware and ensures that even if someone gains physical access to your device while it’s connected, they cannot access your funds without your PIN.

2. When you interact with your Trezor—such as confirming a transaction or accessing your wallet—the device remains unlocked for that session. Once you disconnect it from your computer or mobile device, or after a short idle time, it immediately re-locks. There is no customizable timer within the Trezor Suite interface to extend or reduce this idle time.

3. The security model relies on immediate locking upon disconnection or inactivity, minimizing exposure to unauthorized access. This design choice reflects the core principle of hardware wallets: maximum protection with minimal user configuration.

4. Even when the screen shows the home screen or your account balances, the private keys remain isolated in the secure element of the device. No data is exposed during display, and unlocking always requires physical interaction with the buttons and correct PIN entry.

5. Firmware updates from SatoshiLabs, the company behind Trezor, may refine how quickly the device locks, but these changes are automatic and applied uniformly across devices for consistency and security.

Steps to Ensure Proper Locking Behavior

1. Always physically disconnect your Trezor from the USB port or NFC connection after completing transactions. This triggers an instant lock, securing your wallet.

2. Avoid leaving the device plugged in unattended, especially on public or shared computers. An unattended connected device, even if locked, increases the risk of tampering or phishing attempts.

3. Confirm that your PIN is set and has never been entered on any potentially compromised system. The PIN is required every time you reconnect the device, acting as the primary defense layer.

4. Use passphrase protection (if enabled) with caution. A passphrase adds another dimension to your seed phrase, but entering it repeatedly can create patterns that might be exploited if someone observes your habits.

5. Regularly check for firmware updates via the official Trezor Suite application. Updated firmware often includes enhancements to session management and lock timing logic.

Security Implications of Device Idle States

1. Unlike software wallets that may offer adjustable timeout periods, Trezor operates under a zero-trust policy toward active sessions. As soon as user interaction ceases, the device treats itself as untrusted until re-authenticated.

2. There is no background process or cached authentication token stored on the device. Each new action requires full re-verification through button presses and PIN input.

3. This approach eliminates risks associated with session hijacking or malware attempting to intercept temporary unlock windows. Even advanced attackers with physical access face cryptographic barriers enforced by the secure chip.

4. The lack of user-configurable lock settings reduces attack surface. Attackers cannot exploit misconfigured timeouts because no such configuration exists.

5. Users should still treat their Trezor like a physical key to a vault—safe only when kept secure and used with disciplined habits around disconnection and storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change how long my Trezor stays unlocked?No, there is no option to adjust the unlock duration. The device locks immediately upon disconnection or after a brief inactive state. This behavior is hardcoded for security reasons and cannot be modified by users.

Does Trezor lock when the screen turns off?Yes, the screen turning off is part of the locking mechanism. Once the display goes dark due to inactivity or manual button press, the device is considered locked and requires PIN entry upon next use.

What happens if someone tries to access my Trezor after it locks?They will be prompted to enter the PIN. After multiple incorrect attempts, the device initiates a delay escalation, eventually leading to complete wipe after a predefined number of failures, protecting against brute-force attacks.

Is there a way to remotely lock my Trezor?There is no remote locking function. Physical possession of the device is required for any interaction. To secure it, simply disconnect it from power and store it safely. If lost or stolen, assume it is locked unless the attacker knows your PIN or passphrase.