Wallet support

Paper Wallet Basics

Understand paper key storage and its limitations. Review how recovery phrases work and what a lost wallet backup can affect before setup.

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Troubleshooting Checks

Before using an old paper wallet, confirm whether it holds a private key, a seed phrase, or only a public address. A public address can receive funds but cannot spend them.
Check the address on more than one block explorer before assuming a paper wallet is empty. Network choice, address format, and forked coins can create misleading balance checks.
If sweeping fails, verify the wallet app supports that coin, address format, and private-key type. Importing a key can leave funds exposed; sweeping to a fresh wallet is usually safer.

Safety And Scam Prevention

Paper wallets generated on websites, shared computers, printers, or browser tabs can be compromised before funds ever arrive.
Never type a private key from a paper wallet into a random recovery page. Use reputable wallet software, preferably on a clean device, and move funds to a modern wallet after access.
Printers, screenshots, browser cache, and cloud backups can retain copies. Treat every digital step in paper-wallet creation as a potential leak.

Practical Setup Notes

Paper wallets are not the same as writing down a hardware wallet recovery phrase. A single paper private key controls one address, while a seed phrase can restore many addresses.
Paper can be useful for reviewing address custody, but it is usually a poor long-term plan for active funds because spending safely is hard.
For long-term storage, compare hardware wallets, cold storage workflows, and metal backups before choosing paper as the final custody method.

FAQ

Should I import or sweep a paper wallet?

Sweeping is usually safer because it moves funds to a new wallet. Importing keeps the old exposed key active inside another wallet.

Can a paper wallet expire?

The key does not expire, but software support, address formats, and safe spending practices can change. Old paper wallets need careful verification.

Is a paper wallet safer than a hardware wallet?

Usually no. Hardware wallets are designed for signing transactions safely, while paper wallets are fragile and risky when spending.

What should I do after sweeping funds?

Confirm the transaction on-chain, retire the paper key, and back up the new wallet recovery phrase before receiving more funds.

Recovery phrase rule

Do not share a recovery phrase, private key, wallet password, or signing approval with anyone offering support. Use official wallet surfaces and verify every domain before restoring.