B Not Your KeysSelf-Custody Safety Guide
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Self-Custody Checklist

Review the most important self-custody steps before taking full responsibility for your Bitcoin or crypto.

Warning Box This checklist does not require a wallet connection and does not ask for your seed phrase, private key or recovery phrase.
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Review your setup

Self-custody gives you control, but it also gives you responsibility. This checklist helps you identify basic weaknesses in your setup.

Custody & keys

Do you know whether your wallet is custodial or non-custodial?
Do you understand that private keys control the funds?
Do you avoid sharing wallet secrets with anyone?

Seed backup

Is your seed phrase written down offline?
Is your seed phrase stored away from cloud services and online notes?
Is your backup protected from theft, fire or accidental loss?
Do you have a second backup or a clear backup strategy?

Device & exchange security

Are your main devices protected with strong passwords or biometrics?
Do you keep your devices and wallet software updated?
Do you avoid installing wallet software from unofficial links?
Do you use two-factor authentication on exchange accounts?
Do you use withdrawal whitelist if available?
Do you avoid keeping long-term holdings fully on exchanges?

Transaction & recovery

Do you verify receiving addresses before sending funds?
Do you send a small test transaction before larger transfers?
Do you avoid signing transactions you do not understand?
Do you know how to restore your wallet from backup?
Have you considered what happens if you are unavailable?
Is your recovery plan understandable without exposing secrets?

What this checklist can and cannot do

This checklist can help you think through common self-custody risks. It cannot verify your wallet, guarantee safety or recover lost funds.

Security depends on your actual setup, behavior and environment.

The biggest self-custody mistakes

Common mistakes include storing a seed phrase online, losing the backup, trusting fake support agents, downloading malicious wallet software or signing transactions without understanding them.

Use small steps

If you are new to self-custody, start with small amounts and test transactions. Do not move large amounts until you understand the process and risks.

AdOptional education-page placement after the audit, outside the primary checklist flow.

FAQ

Does this checklist store my answers?

No. The checklist should run locally and does not require an account.

Do I need to connect my wallet?

No. Never connect a wallet to use this checklist.

Can this checklist make my wallet safe?

No checklist can guarantee safety. It only helps you identify basic issues.

What is the most important rule?

Never reveal your seed phrase or private key.

What should I do if I already shared my seed phrase?

Assume the wallet may be compromised. Consider moving funds to a new secure wallet immediately, if it is safe and you understand the process.

DisclaimerThis checklist is educational and does not guarantee security. Never enter or share wallet secrets.