How to Recover Lost Access to a Wallet

Losing access to your cryptocurrency wallet can feel like watching your life savings disappear into thin air. One moment you’re checking your portfolio, the next you’re staring at an error message or a blank screen where your funds should be. The panic sets in quickly, and it’s justified. Unlike traditional banking, there’s no helpline that can instantly reset your password or reverse a mistake with a quick phone call.

But here’s the thing: lost access doesn’t always mean lost funds. Whether you’ve forgotten your password, misplaced your recovery phrase, or experienced a hardware failure, there are proven methods to regain control of your wallet. The key lies in understanding what went wrong, what recovery tools you have at your disposal, and how to use them safely without falling prey to scams.

This guide will walk you through every major recovery scenario, from using seed phrases and private keys to dealing with hardware wallet failures and navigating custodial wallet support. You’ll learn what information you need, how to troubleshoot common issues, and crucially, how to protect yourself from making things worse. Let’s get your access back.

Understanding Why Wallet Access Is Lost

Before you can recover your wallet, you need to pinpoint exactly why you’ve lost access. The recovery method that works depends entirely on the root cause, and jumping to the wrong solution wastes time and could even jeopardise your assets further.

Common Causes of Lost Wallet Access

Most wallet access problems fall into a handful of predictable categories. The most common culprit? Misplacing or forgetting your seed phrase or private keys. These are the master keys to your wallet, without them, recovery becomes exponentially harder, if not impossible.

Forgotten passwords or passphrases are another frequent issue, especially for wallets that encrypt your private keys behind an additional password layer. It’s easy to think you’ll remember a password forever, but months or years later, that confidence often proves misplaced.

Wallet file corruption or accidental deletion catches many users off guard. If you’ve stored your wallet.dat file (common with software wallets) on a single device and it gets deleted, corrupted, or lost in a system crash, you’re locked out unless you have backups elsewhere.

Hardware failures are equally problematic. A crashed hard drive, a water-damaged phone, or a malfunctioning SSD can make your wallet file inaccessible. Hardware wallets themselves can break, get lost, or fail due to manufacturing defects.

Finally, there’s the human error factor: mistaken transactions sent to the wrong address or wallets abandoned after setting them up incorrectly. Whilst these don’t always mean “lost access” in the traditional sense, they often feel just as irreversible.

The Importance of Backup Information

If there’s one lesson that unites every successful wallet recovery story, it’s this: backups save everything.

Your seed phrase, that list of 12 or 24 seemingly random words, is the single most important piece of information tied to your wallet. It’s a cryptographic representation of your private keys, meaning anyone with access to it can restore your wallet on any compatible device. Lose it, and your recovery options shrink dramatically.

Wallet files, particularly the wallet.dat used by Bitcoin Core and other software wallets, are another critical backup. Even if you forget your password, having the wallet file gives you something tangible to work with, whether through brute-force recovery tools or professional services.

Without these backups, your odds of recovery drop to near zero. Professional recovery services can sometimes retrieve data from damaged hardware or attempt password cracking, but these methods are expensive, time-consuming, and far from guaranteed. In many cases, assets become permanently inaccessible.

The harsh reality: the blockchain doesn’t care about your circumstances. There’s no centralised authority to appeal to, no “forgot password” link that emails you a reset. Your responsibility for safeguarding access is absolute.

Preparing for Recovery: What You’ll Need

Recovery isn’t something you want to rush into unprepared. Taking time to gather the right information and secure your environment dramatically improves your chances of success, and reduces the risk of making things worse.

Essential Information to Gather

Start by assembling everything you might possibly need. The more you have on hand, the more recovery options become available to you.

Your seed phrase or recovery words (typically 12 or 24 words) should be your first priority. Check everywhere: written notes, password managers, encrypted files, safe deposit boxes, or anywhere else you might have stored them. Even if you’re not certain they’re correct, having something to test is better than nothing.

If you have your private key, locate it. Private keys are long alphanumeric strings that provide direct access to specific wallet addresses. They’re less common than seed phrases for everyday users but are still used in certain wallet types.

Wallet files, especially wallet.dat files, are critical for software wallets. Check your computer’s backup folders, external drives, cloud storage, or any old devices where the wallet might have been installed.

For custodial wallets (those managed by exchanges or third-party services), you’ll need access to the email address and phone number associated with your account. You’ll also want any backup codes, security questions, or 2FA recovery methods you set up during registration.

Finally, have legal identification ready. Many custodial services require proof of identity before assisting with recovery, particularly if account details have changed or the account has been inactive.

Security Considerations Before Starting

Before you type a single character of your seed phrase or private key, make sure your environment is secure.

First, scan your device thoroughly for malware. Keyloggers, clipboard hijackers, and remote access trojans can steal your recovery information the moment you enter it. Use reputable antivirus software and consider performing recovery steps on a clean, freshly installed operating system if you suspect compromise.

Only use official wallet software or recovery interfaces. Fake wallet apps and phishing websites are rampant in the crypto space. Double-check URLs, verify digital signatures, and download software only from the wallet’s official website or trusted repositories.

Never share your seed phrase or private key with anyone, ever. Legitimate wallet providers will never ask for this information. If someone claiming to be “support” requests it, you’re dealing with a scammer. There are no exceptions to this rule.

Consider working offline where possible. For sensitive operations like importing a seed phrase or private key, disconnecting from the internet reduces exposure to online threats. You can reconnect once the wallet is restored and secured.

Finally, take your time. Rushing through recovery steps increases the chance of errors, entering the wrong seed phrase, importing keys into the wrong wallet type, or accidentally overwriting important data. A methodical approach pays off.

Recovering Access Using Your Seed Phrase

The seed phrase is the gold standard for wallet recovery. If you have it, you’re in a strong position to regain access regardless of what happened to your device, wallet file, or password.

Locating Your Seed Phrase or Recovery Words

Your first task is finding where you stored those critical words. If you wrote them down when you first created your wallet, check all the places you typically keep important documents: drawers, safes, filing cabinets, or lockboxes.

Some users store seed phrases digitally, either in encrypted files, password managers, or even cloud storage (not recommended, but common). Search your devices for text files, notes apps, or any document containing “seed,” “recovery,” or “phrase.”

If you shared wallet access responsibilities with family or business partners, check whether anyone else might have a copy. Some people split their seed phrase across multiple locations for security, if you did this, you’ll need to reassemble all the pieces.

Don’t overlook physical locations outside your home. Safe deposit boxes, trusted friends or family members, or secure storage facilities might hold a backup you’d forgotten about.

Step-by-Step Seed Phrase Recovery Process

Once you’ve located your seed phrase, the recovery process is typically straightforward, though the exact steps vary slightly by wallet type.

First, download and install the wallet software you originally used, or a compatible alternative if the original is no longer available. Most wallets that use BIP39-standard seed phrases are interoperable, meaning a seed phrase from one wallet can often restore funds in another compatible wallet.

Open the wallet application and look for an option like “Restore Wallet,” “Import Wallet,” or “Recover from Seed Phrase.” This is usually presented during the initial setup process when you first launch the wallet.

You’ll be prompted to enter your seed phrase. Type or select each word in the exact order they were given to you. Order matters, entering words in the wrong sequence will generate a completely different wallet.

Most wallets provide a dropdown or auto-complete feature as you type, which helps prevent misspellings. Take advantage of this, but double-check each word before moving to the next.

If your wallet used a passphrase (an optional additional word or phrase beyond the standard 12/24 words), you’ll need to enter that as well. This feature, sometimes called the “13th word” or “25th word,” adds an extra layer of security but must be entered exactly as originally set.

After entering all the words, the wallet will generate your addresses and begin syncing with the blockchain to check for transactions. This can take anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes, depending on the wallet type and your internet connection.

Once syncing completes, your balance should appear. If everything looks correct, immediately create a new backup and secure it properly, consider this a second chance you don’t want to waste.

Troubleshooting Seed Phrase Issues

Sometimes the recovery process doesn’t go smoothly. If your wallet shows a zero balance or an error message, don’t panic, there are several common issues and solutions.

First, verify that every word is spelled correctly and in the right order. Even a single incorrect word or transposed pair will generate the wrong wallet. Cross-reference your written seed phrase against the BIP39 word list (available online) to confirm each word is valid.

Check whether you’re using the correct derivation path. Different wallets sometimes use different standards (BIP44, BIP49, BIP84), which affects which addresses are generated from your seed. Some recovery tools let you specify or scan multiple derivation paths.

If you used a passphrase, make sure you’re entering it exactly as originally created, including capitalisation, spaces, and special characters. Passphrases are case-sensitive and unforgiving of typos.

If you’ve verified everything and recovery still fails, consider whether you might have multiple seed phrases or wallets mixed up. It’s not uncommon for users who’ve created several wallets over time to confuse which seed belongs to which wallet.

When all else fails and you’re certain your seed phrase is correct but recovery isn’t working, professional recovery services may be able to help. These services specialise in identifying seed phrase errors, testing variations, and recovering wallets under strict confidentiality agreements. They typically charge a percentage of recovered funds, but for significant amounts, it’s often worth it.

Recovering Access Using Your Private Key

Private keys offer another route to recovery, though they work differently from seed phrases and are typically used in specific scenarios.

Understanding Private Keys vs Seed Phrases

A private key is a single, long alphanumeric string that controls one specific wallet address. Think of it as the password to a single account, whereas a seed phrase is more like a master key that generates multiple accounts.

Private keys are usually 64 hexadecimal characters (or sometimes displayed in WIF format, which looks different but contains the same information). They’re deterministic: the same private key always generates the same public address.

Seed phrases, on the other hand, generate a hierarchical tree of private keys and addresses. One seed phrase can create billions of unique addresses, which is why modern wallets favour them.

You’re more likely to encounter private keys if you’re using older wallet software, paper wallets, or if you specifically exported your keys for backup purposes. Some blockchain explorers and tools also provide private keys when you create single-use addresses.

The key difference for recovery: importing a private key only restores access to that one address and its balance. Importing a seed phrase restores access to your entire wallet structure, including all derived addresses and associated funds.

How to Import Your Private Key

Importing a private key is generally simpler than seed phrase recovery, but the process varies by wallet.

Start by opening your wallet software and looking for an “Import Private Key” or “Sweep Private Key” option. This is sometimes found under advanced settings or tools menus rather than the main interface.

You’ll be prompted to enter or paste your private key. Make sure you’re entering it exactly as stored, private keys are case-sensitive, and even a single wrong character renders them useless.

Some wallets offer two import methods: “import” (which adds the private key to your wallet file) or “sweep” (which transfers the funds from that address to a new address in your wallet). Sweeping is generally more secure because it moves your funds to a new key pair, reducing exposure if your original private key was compromised.

Once imported, the wallet will check the blockchain for any transactions associated with that address. Your balance should appear shortly.

As with seed phrase recovery, immediately back up your wallet after importing, and consider transferring funds to a new wallet with fresh seed phrase and private keys if you suspect any security issues.

Recovering Access to Hardware Wallets

Hardware wallets are designed to be highly secure, but they’re not immune to access problems. Fortunately, they’re also built with recovery in mind.

Hardware Wallet Recovery Methods

The primary recovery method for hardware wallets relies on your seed phrase, just like software wallets. When you first set up a hardware wallet, you were prompted to write down a recovery phrase, typically 12 or 24 words. This is your lifeline.

If your hardware wallet is lost, stolen, or destroyed but you have your seed phrase, recovery is straightforward. Simply purchase a new hardware wallet (it doesn’t have to be the same brand, as most use compatible standards), and use the “Restore from Recovery Phrase” option during setup.

Enter your seed phrase in the correct order using the device’s interface. The wallet will regenerate all your private keys and addresses from the seed, and your funds will reappear once the device syncs with the blockchain.

If you’ve forgotten your PIN code but the device is still functional, most hardware wallets allow a limited number of attempts before wiping themselves. Don’t waste these attempts guessing blindly. If you’re not confident, wipe the device manually and restore from your seed phrase instead.

Some hardware wallets offer additional recovery features. For example, certain models support duress PINs (which open a decoy wallet under threat) or passphrase extensions for advanced security. If you used these features, you’ll need to recreate them during recovery.

Dealing with Damaged or Malfunctioning Devices

Physical damage to a hardware wallet can be unsettling, but as long as you have your seed phrase, your funds are safe. The device itself is just an interface, your actual assets exist on the blockchain, not in the device.

If the device won’t turn on or respond, first try basic troubleshooting: different USB cables, different ports, different computers. Sometimes what appears to be device failure is actually a connection issue.

If the device is genuinely broken and you don’t have your seed phrase, your options become much more limited. Some professional recovery services specialise in extracting data from damaged hardware wallets, but this is expensive and not always successful. The process typically involves carefully disassembling the device and accessing the secure chip where data is stored.

For water damage, don’t attempt to power on the device immediately. Dry it thoroughly (silica gel packets or rice can help) and wait at least 48 hours. Powering on a wet device can cause short circuits that make recovery impossible.

Corrosion or physical destruction (like a device that’s been crushed or burned) makes chip-level recovery much harder, and in many cases, impossible. This underscores why seed phrase backups are non-negotiable.

If you’re facing hardware wallet recovery without a seed phrase, contact the manufacturer first. They may have specific guidance or recommended recovery partners. Be extremely cautious of anyone claiming they can recover your wallet without the seed phrase, whilst technically possible in some scenarios, this claim is also a favourite tactic of scammers.

Recovering Access to Exchange and Custodial Wallets

Custodial wallets, those managed by exchanges or third-party services, work differently from self-custody wallets. You don’t control the private keys: the service does. This changes the recovery process entirely.

Contacting Customer Support Services

Your first and often only option with custodial wallets is to contact the platform’s customer support. Most major exchanges have dedicated account recovery processes for users who’ve lost access.

Start by visiting the exchange’s official website and looking for the support or help section. Many platforms have a specific “account recovery” or “can’t log in” workflow that guides you through the process.

Be prepared to provide detailed information about your account: the email address you used to register, your username, the last time you accessed the account, approximate balance, recent transactions, and any other identifying information. The more specific you can be, the faster the process typically goes.

Response times vary wildly by platform. Major exchanges may respond within hours, whilst smaller services can take days or even weeks. Be patient but persistent, follow up if you don’t hear back within the timeframe they specify.

Never respond to support offers via direct messages on social media or email that you didn’t initiate. Scammers actively monitor crypto-related complaints and pose as support staff. Always work through official channels only.

Identity Verification Processes

Because custodial services hold your funds and are responsible for security, they typically require thorough identity verification before restoring account access.

You’ll likely need to provide government-issued photo ID, passport, driving licence, or national ID card. The document should be valid (not expired) and clearly legible.

Many platforms also require a “selfie verification,” where you take a photo of yourself holding your ID and a piece of paper with the current date and the exchange’s name. This proves that you’re the person in the ID photo and that you’re submitting the request now, not using old photos.

Some exchanges require additional documentation if your account details have changed. For example, if you no longer have access to your original email address, you might need to prove your identity more extensively or explain why your contact information changed.

Proof of address (utility bill, bank statement, or government correspondence showing your name and current address) may also be requested, particularly for accounts with large balances or those flagged for additional security.

The verification process can feel invasive, but it’s designed to protect your funds from unauthorised access. A legitimate holder should be able to provide this information: someone who gained access to just your email or password cannot.

Two-Factor Authentication Recovery Options

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a common stumbling block in account recovery. If you’ve lost access to your 2FA device, whether it’s a phone with an authenticator app, an SMS-receiving number, or a hardware token, you can’t log in even with the correct password.

The best scenario is that you saved your 2FA backup codes when you initially set up authentication. These are usually provided as a list of one-time-use codes that can be entered in place of your regular 2FA code. Check wherever you store passwords and important information.

If you used an authenticator app like Google Authenticator or Authy, the recovery process depends on the app. Google Authenticator doesn’t back up codes by default (a design flaw many users discover the hard way), but Authy offers cloud backup if you enabled it.

For SMS-based 2FA, you may be able to recover access by contacting your mobile provider to port your number to a new SIM card or device. Be aware that SIM swapping is also a known attack vector, so providers have tightened these processes.

If you’ve lost all 2FA recovery options, you’ll need to work through the exchange’s support process. This typically involves the identity verification steps mentioned above, plus additional security questions or information about your account history.

Some exchanges allow you to remove 2FA if you can prove your identity sufficiently, though this process deliberately takes time, often days or weeks, to prevent attackers from quickly bypassing security.

Once you regain access, immediately set up new 2FA, save the backup codes in multiple secure locations, and consider using a 2FA method with backup options (like Authy instead of Google Authenticator).

What to Do When All Recovery Options Fail

Sometimes, even though your best efforts, standard recovery methods don’t work. This is where professional services, and unfortunately, scammers, enter the picture.

Professional Recovery Services: Pros and Cons

Professional wallet recovery services specialise in scenarios where typical methods have failed. They employ cryptographers, data recovery specialists, and engineers who can sometimes achieve what seems impossible.

These services can help with several scenarios: brute-forcing forgotten passwords if you remember partial information, recovering data from corrupted or damaged wallet files, extracting data from failed hard drives or damaged hardware wallets, and identifying errors in seed phrases (like transposed words or misspellings).

The advantages are clear: if your assets are valuable and you’ve exhausted other options, professionals represent your best remaining chance. Reputable services maintain strict confidentiality, use secure processes, and have verifiable track records of successful recoveries.

But there are significant downsides too. First, there’s cost. Most recovery services charge a percentage of recovered funds, often 20% or more. For small balances, this may not be economically viable. Some charge upfront fees regardless of success, which can feel like throwing good money after bad.

Second, there’s the security risk. You’re entrusting sensitive information, possibly including partial seed phrases, private keys, or wallet files, to a third party. Even with the best intentions, this increases your attack surface.

Third, success isn’t guaranteed. If your seed phrase is completely lost, your hardware is irretrievably destroyed, or you have literally zero recovery information, even professionals can’t help. The laws of cryptography don’t bend for anyone.

If you decide to use a professional service, research thoroughly. Look for services with verifiable testimonials, transparent processes, and clear terms. Be wary of anyone who guarantees success or asks for full payment upfront. Legitimate services typically work on a “no recovery, no fee” basis for the percentage model.

Recognising and Avoiding Recovery Scams

Where there are desperate people with locked funds, scammers inevitably follow. Wallet recovery scams are depressingly common and sophisticated.

The most blatant scam: anyone who contacts you offering recovery services after you’ve posted about lost access on social media or forums. Legitimate services don’t cold-contact potential clients. These “support representatives” will ask for your seed phrase or private keys, promising they need it to “unlock” your wallet. The moment you share this information, your funds disappear.

Another variant: fake recovery software or websites. These look professional, convincing design, technical jargon, even fabricated testimonials, but they’re designed to steal your recovery information. Always verify you’re using official software from the actual wallet provider.

Some scammers ask for payment upfront, claiming they need it for “processing fees,” “blockchain access costs,” or “decryption tools.” Cryptocurrency payment is demanded, and naturally, you’ll never hear from them again once it’s sent.

Warning signs to watch for include: guarantees of success regardless of circumstances, pressure to act immediately, requests for your seed phrase or private keys, refusal to verify credentials or provide references, poor grammar or spelling in communications, and contact initiated by them rather than you reaching out.

Legitimate recovery services never need your full seed phrase or private keys in plaintext. They work with encrypted files, partial information, or damaged hardware, never with the complete secret information that would give them direct access to your funds.

If something feels wrong, trust that instinct. It’s better to leave funds potentially unrecoverable than to hand them directly to a scammer. When in doubt, consult with the wallet’s official support channels or trusted community members before engaging any recovery service.

Preventing Future Wallet Access Loss

If you’ve successfully recovered access to your wallet, congratulations, you’ve been given a second chance that many don’t get. Now it’s time to ensure you never need to go through this again.

Best Practices for Backing Up Wallet Information

The single most important backup is your seed phrase. Write it down, physically, with pen and paper, immediately. Digital backups can fail, be hacked, or become corrupted: paper endures.

Use durable materials if possible. Specialised metal plates designed for seed phrase storage offer protection against fire, water, and degradation that paper can’t match. These aren’t expensive and are worth every penny for significant holdings.

Never store your seed phrase in plain text on any device connected to the internet. That means no photos on your phone, no documents in cloud storage, no emails to yourself, and no notes apps. Each of these can be compromised.

If you must store seed phrases digitally, use robust encryption. Tools like VeraCrypt create encrypted containers that require a password to access. Just make sure you don’t forget the encryption password, you’d be back where you started.

For software wallets, regularly back up your wallet file (wallet.dat or equivalent). Set a recurring calendar reminder monthly to copy this file to multiple locations.

Document your wallet structure. Create a separate, secure record that lists which wallets you have, what types they are, where recovery information is stored, and any special settings (like passphrases or derivation paths). If something happens to you, your family should be able to access this information.

Secure Storage Methods for Recovery Phrases

Where you store recovery information matters as much as having it in the first place.

For physical backups, consider using a safe or lockbox in your home. Fireproof and waterproof models provide additional protection. Make sure trusted family members know the combination or where to find the key, not to access the safe regularly, but so your assets aren’t lost if something happens to you.

Safe deposit boxes at banks offer another layer of security. They’re protected by the bank’s physical security, and you control access. The downside is that you can’t access them outside banking hours, and there are ongoing rental costs.

For particularly valuable wallets, consider splitting your seed phrase across multiple locations using a threshold scheme (like Shamir’s Secret Sharing). This allows you to divide your seed into multiple parts, where you need any N of M parts to recover. For example, create five parts where any three can restore the wallet, then distribute them to trusted locations or people.

Never store all recovery information in a single location. House fires, floods, theft, or natural disasters can destroy everything in one place. Geographic distribution, backups in your home, a safe deposit box, and with a trusted family member in another city, provides resilience.

If you travel frequently or worry about physical security, consider using a passphrase (the 13th/25th word) plus to your standard seed phrase. You can store the seed phrase in one secure location and memorise only the passphrase. Without both pieces, the wallet can’t be recovered, which protects you if one backup is compromised.

Setting Up Multiple Access Points

Redundancy extends beyond just backing up the same information multiple times, it’s about creating different routes to access.

For custodial wallets and exchanges, maintain access to multiple contact methods. If your account uses your email address and phone number, keep both active and accessible. Set up alternative email addresses or phone numbers if the platform allows it.

Save your 2FA backup codes in multiple locations immediately after enabling two-factor authentication. Print them, write them down, and store copies wherever you keep other critical recovery information.

For shared wallets or business accounts, carry out multi-signature setups where multiple people must approve transactions. This distributes control and ensures that if one person loses access, others can still manage the wallet.

Consider maintaining a “recovery wallet” with a small amount of funds that you specifically use to test your recovery process periodically. Once or twice a year, perform a practice restoration using your backups. This verifies that your recovery information is correct and that you remember how to use it.

Document your security setup thoroughly. Write down which 2FA method you’re using, which email addresses are associated with which accounts, and any security questions you’ve set. Store this with your other recovery information.

Finally, establish a dead man’s switch or inheritance plan. Services exist that can release information to designated beneficiaries if you don’t check in regularly. At minimum, leave clear instructions with your will about where recovery information is stored and how to access your wallets.

Conclusion

Losing access to your wallet doesn’t have to mean losing your funds permanently. Whether it’s a forgotten password, a misplaced seed phrase, or a failed device, recovery is often possible, if you have the right information and approach the process methodically.

The seed phrase remains your most powerful recovery tool for self-custody wallets. Guard it jealously, back it up redundantly, and never share it with anyone. For custodial wallets, maintaining secure access to your account credentials and 2FA methods is equally critical.

If you’ve successfully recovered your wallet, don’t waste the lesson. Carry out proper backup practices now, whilst the memory of nearly losing access is fresh. Multiple physical backups, secure storage, and regular verification of your recovery methods will prevent future panic.

And if recovery proves impossible, accept it and move on. Don’t compound the loss by falling victim to scammers promising guaranteed recovery in exchange for upfront payment or sensitive information.

The blockchain doesn’t offer second chances through customer service or centralised recovery processes, that’s both its strength and its unforgiving nature. Your security is entirely in your hands, which means your preparation and caution today directly determine whether you’ll have access tomorrow.

Take that responsibility seriously, and you’ll never need to search for “how to recover lost wallet access” again.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to recover lost access to a wallet without a seed phrase?

Without a seed phrase, recovery options are severely limited. If you have the wallet.dat file, you may use password recovery tools or professional services. For hardware wallets without a seed phrase, chip-level data extraction is possible but expensive and rarely successful. Prevention through proper backup is essential.

What should I do immediately after losing access to my cryptocurrency wallet?

First, remain calm and identify the cause of lost access. Gather all possible recovery information including seed phrases, private keys, wallet files, and account credentials. Secure your device by scanning for malware before attempting recovery. Avoid rushed decisions and never share sensitive information with unsolicited support offers.

Can I recover a wallet using just the private key?

Yes, importing a private key restores access to that specific address and its balance. However, it only recovers one address, unlike a seed phrase which restores your entire wallet structure. Use your wallet’s ‘Import Private Key’ or ‘Sweep’ function to regain access to those funds.

How do I recover access to a hardware wallet with a broken device?

If you have your recovery seed phrase, simply purchase a new hardware wallet and use the ‘Restore from Recovery Phrase’ option during setup. Your funds exist on the blockchain, not the device itself, so device failure doesn’t mean lost funds if you’ve backed up your seed properly.

Are professional wallet recovery services legitimate or scams?

Legitimate services do exist and can help with password recovery, corrupted files, or damaged hardware. They typically charge a percentage of recovered funds on a ‘no recovery, no fee’ basis. However, avoid anyone contacting you unsolicited, requesting your seed phrase, or demanding upfront payment.

What is the difference between a seed phrase and a private key for wallet recovery?

A seed phrase (12–24 words) is a master key that generates multiple private keys and addresses for your entire wallet structure. A private key is a single alphanumeric string controlling one specific address. Seed phrases provide comprehensive wallet recovery, whilst private keys restore individual addresses only.