Seed Phrase
A seed phrase is a list of words that backs up a crypto wallet and can restore access to its private keys and funds.
A seed phrase, also called a recovery phrase or mnemonic phrase, is a set of common words generated when you create many crypto wallets. It usually contains 12 or 24 words in a specific order. The wallet uses this phrase to create the private keys that control your addresses, so anyone with the phrase can usually restore the wallet and move the assets linked to it.
It matters because it is the main backup for a self-custody wallet. If your phone, laptop, or hardware wallet is lost or damaged, entering the seed phrase into a compatible wallet can recover access. But if someone else sees or copies it, they may be able to take the funds without needing your password. A helpful comparison is a master key: your wallet app is like the door you use every day, while the seed phrase is the backup key that can recreate the lock. Store it offline, keep it private, and never type it into a website or share it with support staff.
Other terms in Wallets & Security
Address Poisoning
A wallet scam where attackers plant lookalike addresses in your transaction history so you might copy the wrong recipient later.
Approval Phishing
A scam that tricks users into granting a malicious wallet or smart contract permission to spend tokens from their wallet.
BIP-39
A standard for turning wallet backup data into a human-readable seed phrase, usually 12 or 24 words.
Crypto Wallet
A tool that stores and manages the private keys needed to access and use cryptocurrency on a blockchain.