What if crypto could fuel scientific breakthroughs instead of just chasing quick profits? Pump.Science, a decentralized science platform, believes it can. On Thursday, it launched its online storefront, selling supplements like Urolithin A to enhance cellular health. This step seeks to transform research funding, particularly longevity, despite obstacles. With BIO Protocol’s partnership with Solana, DeSci is expanding further into the blockchain realm.
Pump.Science adopts meme coin strategies to pull in crypto fans. Token holders trade and fund experiments directly, with trading volume driving research. This creates a loop where investment sparks discovery. “We gamify science,” says co-founder Benjamin Leibowitz. “Fresh data keeps it thrilling—traders dive in and enjoy the game. Fun draws a crowd.”
Trading Tokens, Saving Lives? The DeSci Revolution
Launched on the Solana blockchain in September 2024 at Solana Breakpoint, Pump.Science lets researchers tokenize experiments. Founders Leibowitz, Paul Kohlhass, and Jillian Casalini built it to test compounds—from worms to humans—and sell successes as supplements. Urolithin A, the debut product, boosts mitophagy to slow aging. Leibowitz explains, “Supplements skip heavy FDA oversight if they’re natural and safe. That accelerates progress.”
This aligns with Decentralized Science, or DeSci, a Web3 movement using blockchain for open, fair research. DeSci tackles traditional science’s flaws—limited funding, paywalled data, and slow progress. Blockchain stores tamper-proof records, ensuring trust, while smart contracts and tokens fund projects directly. “VCs chase drugs, not lifespan,” Leibowitz says. “DeSci bridges that gap.” According to reports, funding for longevity research dropped from $9 billion in 2022 to $5 billion in 2024’s first half. U.S. grant cuts worsen the crunch. DeSci offers hope.
I keep hearing many definitions of DeSci and I keep explaining that #DeSci is not about the Science itself, but about the way you “DO”, “VALIDATE”, “OWN”, “PROTECT” the Science. You don’t need to be a scientist to be in DeSci, all you need is to embrace the paradigm shift in… pic.twitter.com/4xOSrsSxSu
— Gianluca De Novi, Ph.D. (@gianlucadenovi) March 19, 2025
The storefront is a milestone. Researchers pitch ideas for a 3 SOL fee, test compounds step-by-step, and sell proven ones. Pump.Science guarantees trust with live-streamed data and audited labs. “We use top labs and block insider trading,” Leibowitz says. Yet, crypto’s ups and downs challenge engagement. “At a $400 million market cap, people flocked,” he notes. “Now, with prices low, it’s hard to keep them.”
Bio Protocol Partnership With Solana – Decentralized Science And Blockchain Fusion
Another DeSci leader, BIO Protocol expanded to Solana in early 2025, leveraging its scalability and low fees. This partnership enhances DeSci’s reach, with BIO’s $BIO token now transferable between Ethereum and Solana via Wormhole. BIO has raised $33 million and supports BioDAOs like VitaDAO, focusing on aging research. Its integration with Solana, alongside Pump.Science, signals growing collaboration between the blockchain and DeSci projects.
Could DeSci be crypto’s most overlooked gem? It solves real issues—funding gaps, data silos, and sluggish innovation. Projects like Molecule, tokenizing IP since 2019, and BIO Protocol, listed on Binance in 2025, show DeSci’s rise. Pump.Science blends trading with impact, proving blockchain’s potential beyond finance. Success rests on aligning crypto’s fast pace with science’s long haul.
Solana’s first BioDAO might have just uncovered the first treatment to a fatal rare disease.
Bitcoin’s Bullish Breakout: A Look at the Market and the Momentum
Bitcoin has skyrocketed to a new all-time high of $98,907.40, marking an extraordinary moment in its history. With the Fear & Greed Index hitting a staggering 94 (Extreme Greed), the crypto market is riding a wave of unshakable optimism. This surge is not just about numbers on a screen; it’s a reflection of growing adoption, shifting perceptions, and a confluence of global events that are positioning Bitcoin as a cornerstone of the modern financial system.
Bitcoin’s record-breaking performance is driven by a combination of investor confidence, institutional interest, and anticipation of a more crypto-friendly environment following the recent U.S. presidential election. With Bitcoin’s market cap nearing $2 trillion, this rally isn’t just about short-term speculation. It’s a signal that Bitcoin is moving closer to the mainstream as a trusted store of value and a hedge against traditional market uncertainties.
The Fear & Greed Index, a popular barometer of market sentiment, surged to an astounding 94, reflecting Extreme Greed. This sharp uptick shows the exuberance in the market as investors pile in, hoping to ride the bullish wave. While optimism abounds, it’s important to approach this phase with caution, as extreme greed levels often precede corrections. Staying informed and managing risks effectively is vital during such dynamic market conditions.
The 2024 U.S. presidential election has brought new energy and speculation to the crypto sector. A potentially more crypto-friendly administration could herald regulatory clarity and foster growth across the industry.
Pro-Crypto Policies on the Horizon
Key political developments include discussions about replacing SEC Chair Gary Gensler, a move that many in the crypto space view as a step toward fairer and clearer regulations. Dan Gallagher, a potential contender for the role, is widely regarded as a pro-crypto advocate whose leadership could spur innovation and reduce regulatory roadblocks.
The Concept of a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve
One intriguing possibility is the idea of a U.S. strategic Bitcoin reserve. Transforming seized Bitcoin holdings into a national asset would send a strong message of trust in digital currencies. Such a move could catalyze global adoption and inspire other nations to follow suit, further solidifying Bitcoin’s role as a financial powerhouse.
Pro-Crypto Majority in Congress
With 271 pro-crypto representatives in the House and 19 in the Senate, the legislative environment is shifting toward a more blockchain-positive outlook. These developments signal the potential for faster and more favorable regulations, fueling optimism within the crypto community.
In these exciting times, safeguarding your crypto investments is paramount. As Bitcoin reaches new heights, the need for security grows. Trezor hardware wallets provide unmatched protection by keeping your private keys offline and under your full control. Whether you’re trading or holding for the long term, Trezor ensures your journey remains secure.
Trezor Suite is evolving to make crypto management simpler and safer. The latest addition — crypto purchases through Revolut — makes it easier than ever to buy Bitcoin directly within the app. This seamless integration ensures that transactions remain secure while giving you full control of your assets.
Bitcoin’s journey to an all-time high is more than just a financial milestone; it’s a testament to its resilience and growing significance in the global economy. As we move into this new era of possibility, staying informed and choosing the right tools will ensure you navigate the market with confidence. Trezor is here to support you every step of the way, providing the security and peace of mind you need to participate in this thrilling chapter of Bitcoin’s evolution.
Bitcoin is rewriting the rules of finance, and Trezor is your trusted partner in this revolution. Whether you’re trading, investing, or holding for the future, now is the time to ensure your crypto assets are as secure as they are promising. Explore the Trezor ecosystem today and take charge of your financial freedom as Bitcoin continues to soar.
Trump Media & Technology Group (TMTG) is launching a new Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC) called Renatus Tactical Acquisition Corp I. They plan to raise $179 million through an initial public offering (IPO). Importantly, the main purpose of setting up this Cayman island registered blank-check company is to acquire cryptocurrency and blockchain companies.
According to the SEC registration statement Renatus Tactical will be led by Eric Swider as CEO, Devin Nunes as board chairman, and Alexander Cano as COO. All three executives have deep ties to TMTG.
“We are an “emerging growth company” and “smaller reporting company” under applicable federal securities laws and will be subject to reduced public company reporting requirements,” the registration said.
Targeting High-Potential US-based Businesses In Cryptocurrency
Importantly, Renatus Tactical’s 14 March 2025 SEC filings reveal its intent to target high-potential US-based businesses in cryptocurrency, blockchain, data security, and dual-use technologies.
While the company retains flexibility to pursue acquisitions across various industries globally, its primary focus aligns with President Donald Trump’s administration’s pro-crypto stance.
Trump Media executives are launching a new SPAC to raise $179M for acquiring high-potential U.S.-based businesses in #cryptocurrency, blockchain, data security, and dual-use technologies. pic.twitter.com/PrRxb2NsTf
TMTG, known to operate Truth Social Media, will offer 17.5 million public shares. Each will be sold at $10. Similarly, the SPAC will issue approximately 3.95 million warrants through a private placement at $1 each.
For the SPAC, the association with TMTG and US President Donald Trump is expected to attract investors that may want to capitalize of his pro-crypto policies.
The US President is set to issue an executive order undoing Biden crypto banking limits.
The order is expected to tackle barriers such as “Operation Chokepoint 2.0,” possibly allowing crypto companies to gain Federal Reserve master accounts. This will reshape how retail and institutional money interact with crypto.
The initiative follows Trump’s pledges at a White House Crypto Summit, where he teased a pro-crypto agenda under his administration.
Trump Media & Technology Group (TMTG) is launching a new blank-check company called Renatus Tactical Acquisition Corp I.
The SPAC will target US-based businesses in cryptocurrency, blockchain, data security, and dual-use technologies.
For the SPAC, the association with TMTG and US Presdient Donald Trump is expected to attract investors that may want to capitalize of his pro-crypto policies.
Welcome to Trezor Pulse! We’re excited to bring you the latest updates and stories from across Trezor, as we continue to create innovative solutions that empower you to safeguard your crypto. In this edition, we explore the balance of design and security that makes Trezor unique, highlight recent developments, and celebrate moments that connect and grow our community. Plus, Adam Budinsky, our Head of Hardware, has a special message about the philosophy guiding our product design.
Over to you, Adam
Hi there,
Adam here, Head of Hardware at Trezor.
Designing hardware is about more than just creating devices. It’s about giving you the power to secure your financial independence and privacy with confidence, without a second thought. From the start, my team and I have been focused on one goal: building products that balance simplicity and security, so you can manage your crypto with ease.
At Trezor, we’re committed to more than just building for today. Our mission is to design tools that prioritize security, privacy, and usability, empowering you to maintain full control of your crypto for the long term. Because we’re open source, it’s not about asking for your trust — it’s about providing transparency, giving you the ability to verify and audit your security at every step.
Personally, I’m inspired every day by the challenge of making complex technology simple and empowering. Knowing that the products we create help people like you safeguard your financial freedom is what drives us forward.
Thank you for being part of this journey. We’ll continue to build on this foundation, ensuring that your digital freedom is secure for the future.
Adam Budinsky
Head of Product (Hardware) at Trezor
In October, we showcased our Trezor Safe 5 and Trezor Expert service at ETHMilan 2024, Italy’s largest Ethereum and Web3 conference. It was the perfect place to exchange ideas with global blockchain enthusiasts and highlight what sets Trezor apart. Who knows — you might see us at an event near you soon!
Back in Cologne, we engaged with the German-speaking crypto community at the BlockTrainer Community Event. We introduced new features like the Smart Trading Engine and gained valuable feedback. Events like these are vital in shaping our future and strengthening our bond with the community.
When we’re not working on new innovations, we’re building connections that fuel our mission. Our team recently enjoyed a memorable surf trip to Portugal, where we blended adventure, relaxation, and camaraderie. Days were spent catching waves, while evenings were for stories, laughter, and reflection at the cozy Captain’s Log.
Closer to home, our business team came together for a three-day bonding retreat filled with frisbee matches, campfire conversations, and countless moments that strengthened our shared vision. Teamwork drives our success — and this was a powerful reminder of that.
The Trezor Safe 3 continues to impress with its simplicity, security, and ease of use. Over a year on the market, it’s still winning over users, and your stories motivate us every day.
Here’s what some of you had to say:
“Great design, easy set up, good price.” — Edmund
“I highly recommend this wallet for ease-of-use and top-of-the-line security.” — Frank Curtis
“It’s literally perfect for my needs. Simple to set up, simple to use.” — Jonathan Laliberte
We’re thrilled to introduce the Smart Trading Engine in Trezor Suite, making it easier to buy, sell, and swap crypto securely from your hardware wallet. The engine evaluates multiple offers to ensure you get the best deals, providing the convenience and safety you expect from Trezor.
Additionally, you can now buy crypto with PayPal through our partnership with MoonPay, streamlining the purchase process.
And don’t miss Trezor Talks, our new podcast featuring insights from industry leaders and Trezor experts.
Stay secure, stay informed, and enjoy every step of your crypto journey.
The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) of South Korea, which falls under the Financial Services Commission (FSC), has initiated enforcement action against several cryptocurrency exchanges, including KuCoin and BitMex, for operating in the country without registering as a Virtual Asset Services Provider (VASPs) under South Korea’s Specific Financial Information Act.
According to local media reports published on 21 March 2025, the South Korean authorities are considering sanctions such as blocking access to all crypto exchanges not registered as VASPs, in collaboration with the Korea Communication Standards Commission (KCSC).
Other crypto exchanges accused of violating South Korean anti-money laundering (AML) and financial regulations include CoinW, Bitunix, and KCEX. Authorities have accused all exchanges listed here of operating without necessary approvals and adherence to the country’s compliance processes by offering marketing and customer support to South Korean investors.
South Korea is cracking down on unregistered foreign crypto exchanges!
The FIU is targeting KuCoin, BitMEX, CoinW, Bitunix, and KCEX for operating without proper registration. Authorities may block access to these platforms as part of stricter enforcement.
Regulators…
— Pushpendra Singh Fan Club (@pushpendrajifan) March 21, 2025
Crypto companies involved in storage, brokerage, crypto sales, and management are mandated to report to the FIU. Non-compliance renders the company’s activities illegal and exposes it to criminal prosecution, penalties, and administrative sanctions.
This regulatory correction in South Korea, however, reflects a broader global trend. As the crypto market is maturing, regulators worldwide are imposing stricter rules and guidelines to maintain transparency, security, and compliance.
Investigators Are Also Examining Homegrown Exchanges In South Korea
While investigations into the international exchanges are ongoing, homegrown exchanges in South Korea are also facing the heat over suspicions of financial misconduct.
Just yesterday, South Korean authorities raided the crypto exchange Bithumb over suspicions of its former CEO embezzling company funds to purchase an apartment.
Suspicions arose when it was revealed that Bithumb gave 3 billion Korean won (over $2 million) to former CEO Kim Dae-sik, who now works for the exchange as an advisor. The exchange countered that Kim had already taken a loan to repay the funds.
Crackdowns in South Korea against crypto exchanges for violating its rules are not a new phenomenon. Back in 2022, the FIU had requested the KCSC to block 16 unregistered crypto exchanges, including KuCoin, MEXC, and Poloniex, which resulted in many crypto exchanges suspending their operations in South Korea.
Last February, the FIU stated that South Korea had only 31 registered crypto firms, down from 42 in 2024. They delisted GDAC, ProBit, Huobi Korea, and Bitrade among the companies.
South Korea had recently announced plans to implement stronger AML rules, in line with their regulatory revamp focused on preventing financial crimes.
Furthermore, the authorities are also exploring other aspects of blockchain technology. The Bank of Korea recently announced its upcoming CBDC pilot project set to launch in April this year, which will tentatively last for three months.
Imagine this: you’ve started your journey into cryptocurrency, excited about financial independence and the promise of security beyond traditional banking. You’ve worked hard to build up your assets, watching your balance grow and feeling confident that your funds are safe in your hands — far from third-party control. But there’s one crucial detail that might be slipping through the cracks — your wallet backup.
Now, picture this: one day, you go to access your wallet, but your device is unresponsive or, worse, missing. At that moment, all your wealth hangs on a single factor: your wallet backup. Whether your funds remain secure or are lost forever depends entirely on how carefully you look after your backup.
This scenario isn’t just theoretical; countless individuals have discovered the hard way that without a reliable wallet backup, assets can disappear with no way to retrieve them. The good news? With a proper backup, stored carefully, you can prevent this entirely. Follow these steps, and you’ll ensure your funds remain secure and accessible — no matter what happens to your device.
Important Reminder: Never reveal your wallet backup to anyone, and never type it on a computer, phone, or in any app. Your backup allows direct access to your funds, and exposing it to others or to a connected device puts your assets at risk.
The argument is that if a USD-backed token were absent, crypto as a whole would be worth far less than the $2.8 trillion it is currently valued at. Without a fluid, highly liquid, multi-chain stablecoin like USDT (Tether), trading and holding crypto would be extremely difficult.
No one would be willing to risk holding an extremely volatile crypto asset that can move over 10% in a day. Institutions would play it safe, and though the appeal of crypto remains, they would likely double down on solid and relatively stable alternatives like gold—or even more so, US Treasuries.
Tether Holds $33 Billion of US Treasuries
From this analysis, it’s easy to see that USDT, the first stablecoin, is a game-changer and will continue to be so, driving the demand of some of the best cryptos to buy in 2025.
News that Tether, the issuer of USDT, bought $33 billion of US Treasuries in 2024 is not only massively bullish but also expected from the firm. At this level, Tether is the world’s seventh-largest buyer of US bonds, holding more debt than Norway, Hong Kong, and South Korea.
In a post on X, Paolo Ardoino, the CEO of Tether, said in 2024, Tether trailed the Cayman Islands, which bought over $100 billion of US debt, as well as France, Luxembourg, Singapore, and the UK. During this period, it’s worth noting that India, Ireland, Brazil, Japan, and Mainland China offloaded billions of US Treasuries.
Tether issues a stablecoin, USDT, on multiple chains like Ethereum and Tron. Each token, of which there are over $143 billion in circulation as of March 21, 2025, is pegged to the USD. USDT tracks every USD move, and the greenback’s volatility reflects on USDT on-chain.
Being a token issuer of a coin tracking the USD means Tether must secure exposure to highly liquid collateral like Treasuries. But why is Tether making such a bold move and rapidly accumulating Treasuries?
By holding $33 billion in Treasuries, Tether earns a decent yield—currently within the 4.25% to 4.50% range—explaining its $13 billion profit in 2024. However, the objective seems to be far more than just financial gain.
Ardoino and his team are being strategic, aiming not only to strengthen their market position but also to comply with the law.
As the unofficial “distribution network” delivering USD to over 400 million people in emerging markets, as the Tether CEO claims, its role in driving USD dominance is clear.
Beyond this, their actions align with proposed stablecoin regulations in the United States, particularly the GENIUS Act.
Yesterday, President Trump urged Congress to pass all pending stablecoin regulations, stating, “Dollar-backed stablecoins will expand the dominance of the U.S. dollar for years to come.”
The more stablecoins tracking the USD, the more supreme the greenback becomes in international markets, and thus, more capital moving into some of the hottest presales to buy right now.
Under the GENIUS Act, stablecoin issuers would be required to hold U.S. debt as collateral backing all tokens in circulation.
By preemptively purchasing billions in U.S. debt, Tether is positioning itself to comply with potential future regulations while solidifying its foothold in the American financial system.
However, while their decision to accumulate Treasuries is evident, Tether has historically resisted third-party audits—a key requirement for compliance under the GENIUS Act.
Tether Preparing For A Full Financial Audit
In an attempt to move past this tainted history and possibly usher in a new era of transparency, Tether hired Simon McWilliams as its CFO before a full audit is conducted. The stablecoin issuer called this “a crucial step in raising industry standards and strengthening regulatory engagement.”
An audit is critical now that banks are eyeing the stablecoin market and Ripple’s RLUSD is making strides. RLUSD, which targets institutions only, complies with New York financial laws.
This just in…we have final approval from @NYDFS for $RLUSD! Exchange and partner listings will be live soon – and reminder: when RLUSD is live, you’ll hear it from @Ripple first.
If Tether fails to comply with US laws, it could be outpaced by the more compliant USDC, which remains one of the fastest-growing stablecoins, especially in the United States and Europe.
Tether Bought $33 Billion of Treasuries In 2024: Will It Comply With the GENIUS Act?
Market Impact: Tether bought $33 billion of U.S. Treasuries in 2024. USDT fuels the $2.8 trillion crypto market and is the largest stablecoin by market cap
Regulatory Play: Preemptive debt buys position Tether for GENIUS Act compliance, despite audit resistance
Competition: RLUSD and USDC threaten USDT’s dominance if it falters on U.S. law alignment
The holiday season is here. A time of joy, celebration, and sometimes, a few “Oops” moments. From spilled drinks, forgotten PINs, damage to devices, mishaps can happen.
This year, Trezor is here to help you navigate the chaos and keep your crypto safe with our special holiday campaign. Enjoy discounts on a bunch of our products, from hardware wallets, to backup devices, limited-edition bundles, and more. It’s time to enjoy an Oops-Proof holiday season!
As you gear up for festive gatherings and family reunions, it’s essential to remember that mishaps can occur. Whether it’s that spilled glass of red wine on your wallet backup card — an “Oops” moment easily avoided with the Trezor Keep Metal(currently at a 50% discount) – or forgotting the PIN to your hardware wallet (which you can reset it in minutes), these little blunders can lead to unnecessary stress.
But don’t worry! Our range of products is designed to keep your digital assets secure, no matter what those little holiday mishaps bring your way.
Going through that Oops moment wondering what’s the perfect gift for the holidays? How about a hardware wallet?
The sleek, stylish, and secure Trezor Model T is currently available at a 40% discount.
If you have a relative or friend just starting their Bitcoin journey, the Trezor Model One — now priced at under $35 — makes an ideal gift. This trusted, proven, and affordable hardware wallet has been the go-to choice for offline crypto security for over 10 years.
At Trezor, our hardware wallets are designed with robust security features to protect your loved ones’ assets from any mishaps. Whether they’re seasoned crypto enthusiasts or new to the space, gifting a Trezor wallet is a step to giving them the peace of mind they need on their crypto journey.
Looking to take your gift-giving to the next level? We have exclusive bundles on sale that combine the best of our hardware wallets and backup solutions. These bundles are crafted to provide everything you need for effective crypto management at an unbeatable price.
Here’s a look at one of the deals,
Trezor Safe 3 Backup Bundle
Secure your crypto with the Trezor Safe 3 Backup Bundle. This stylish package includes the sleek Trezor Safe 3 hardware wallet in Cosmic Black, paired with the ultra-durable Trezor Keep Metal 20-word backup for top-notch security.
With our exclusive discounts, it’s easier than ever to prioritize crypto security this season!
Explore all of our bundles here,
This holiday season, embrace the spirit of giving while ensuring your loved ones’ crypto remains secure. With Trezor’s range of hardware wallets, backup solutions, and exclusive holiday bundles, you can make thoughtful gifts that provide peace of mind in the face of life’s little “Oops” moments.
Explore our full selection of products and bundles today, and let’s make this holiday season a truly “Oops-Proof” celebration! Happy holidays from all of us at Trezor!
Why is crypto up today? Renewed bullish sentiment swept through Bitcoin options market following the Federal Reserve’s latest meeting. The Fed reaffirmed its stance on two rate cuts, with Jerome Powell brushing off tariff concerns as fleeting.
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We’re so early into crypto that if this is a baseball game, we haven’t even reached the first inning. Crypto technology remains frustratingly obscure, and nowhere is this more obvious than with crypto wallets. They’re clunky, confusing, and demand better solutions.
Enter seed journals—a vital yet complicated tool for navigating this chaos.
Why Crypto Wallets Still Suck
Crypto wallets operate like relics from the Stone Age. You create one, and you’re handed a string of 12 to 24 random words called a seed phrase. This sequence is your lifeline to recover access, but its clunky design only underscores how far the tech still needs to go.
These words are created by the wallet automatically and can, hence, prove troublesome to remember, as there is no logic/reference to the words in the seed phrase.
Posting a meme every day until the year-end challenge:
— CRYPTOTAG | Seed Phrase Storage (@CRYPTO_TAG) December 1, 2023
The fix for crypto’s most embarrassing problem has been around for ages: seed journals. If you want to avoid becoming a cautionary tale of forgotten keys and locked wallets, you should start one now.
This is Why Storing Seed Phrases is So Important
Your seed phrase is the master key to your crypto wallet. No one else should have it, yet losing it means losing everything. Without it, a lost or deleted wallet spells permanent disaster for your funds.
We do what Quentin Tarantino does before he writes a movie. He famously said he buys a journal and says to himself “I’m going to write Kill Bill in this thing.” Do the same with your seed phrase.
It doesn’t need to be a fancy notebook, but instead of just taking screenshots and accidentally deleting them or writing your phrase on a random sheet of scrap paper – take five minutes to compile a journal. Some crazy investors even etch their phrases into metal!
Final Thoughts
Seed phrases don’t seem like much, but they could save thousands of dollars – or even millions – if you get locked out of your wallet. It doesn’t happen often, but it does happen.
Simply taking five minutes to buy a $2 notebook can save your life.
As soon as you finish this article, head over to your nearest Walmart/Target/Dollar Store and pick up a notebook. You’re welcome in advance!
You’ve heard this before, Not Your Keys, Not Your Coins. When it comes to your digital assets, security takes the front seat. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just getting started, understanding how to properly store your wallet backup (also known as recovery seed) is essential for safeguarding your digital assets.
A compromised or lost wallet backup can lead to the permanent loss of your funds, so taking the necessary precautions is critical.
This guide will explore the best practices for securing your crypto wallet backup, highlight common mistakes to avoid, and suggest ways you can keep it safe.
A wallet backup (also known as a backup, recovery seed, seed, seed phrase, BIP-39 seed phrase, mnemonic, recovery phrase) is an ordered list of English words that contain all information necessary for recovering your wallet (i.e., accessing bitcoin or other cryptocurrency funds on-chain). A wallet backup provides full access to the associated wallet (the private key is mathematically derived from the wallet backup) — this is why you must keep it safe.
Think of it as the password to your crypto holdings — it enables you to access, transfer, and manage your funds. Without it, your assets are permanently lost.
You’re given a wallet backup when you set up a hardware wallet like Trezor. This unique phrase is generated during the wallet initialization process.
Losing or exposing your wallet backup means:
You lose access to your funds forever.
No third party, not even Trezor, can help you recover it.
Hence, properly storing your wallet backup is one of the most critical aspects of cryptocurrency security.
Important to know: Your wallet backup is a ‘plain English’ representation of a random number, from which all of your keys and addresses are mathematically derived.
It is an ordered sequence of 12 or 24 words for wallets using the BIP39 protocol, chosen from this list of 2048 words. In the case of the newer SLIP39 protocol, it is a sequence of 20 words chosen from this list of 1024 words
When you write down your wallet backup, the words must be copied down in the same order they appear
You must keep your wallet backup private and safe so that your cryptocurrency is never at risk. Having a safe wallet backup means you can recover your Bitcoin or other digital assets in case of hardware failure or the loss of your device
To keep your crypto assets secure, avoid these common mistakes:
1. Relying on Digital Devices
Storing your wallet backup on a computer, phone, or cloud service is highly risky. If your device gets hacked or compromised, attackers can easily steal your wallet backup, and gain access to your cryptocurrencies.
Rule of thumb: Do not keep digital copies of your wallet backup (this includes screenshots, photographs, emails, Dropbox wallet backup, etc).
2. Sharing Your Wallet Backup
Be careful who you share your wallet backup with. Sharing your wallet backup is equivalent to handing over your crypto assets to someone else.
3. Using Unsecure Physical Locations
While writing your wallet backup down on paper is a common practice, understand the risks that come with it. It is paper, after all! Storing it carelessly exposes it to risks like theft, fire, or water damage.
Here are some of the most effective solutions for securely storing your wallet backup:
1. Pen and Paper Method
Write your wallet backup down on paper in clear, legible handwriting. We recommend using capital letters. Your Trezor hardware wallet ships with a pair of wallet backup cards that you should use for writing down the words when you backup your device — this is a strongly recommended step when setting up your Trezor.
Keep your wallet backup cards safe from theft and damage
Consider making multiple copies and storing them in separate secure locations.
Drawback: Paper is vulnerable to fire, water, and physical damage over time.
2. Metal Backup Tools
We recommend this strongly. Metal backup tools, such as Trezor Keep Metal, are designed to protect your wallet backup from:
Storing your wallet backup in a hidden safe at your house is a great way to control access to it. However, the knowledge of a safe alone is enough to raise the interest of a potential thief, so if you choose to use this storage method, you should keep it in a discreet location, away from the eyes of guests, housemates, or anyone that might spend time inside your home.
Some may consider a safety deposit box at a bank. However, be mindful of bank policies that may allow access to your box under certain conditions.
Here’s a video to learn more,
4. Multi-share Backup
Trezor offers a unique feature called Multi-share Backup. This, essentially, allows you to split your wallet backup into multiple parts and store them separately.
For example, in a 3-of-5 Multi-share Backup scheme, the total number of shares is equal to 5, and the threshold is 3. This means any three of these shares can be used to recover your wallet. This is beneficial as even if one or two of your shares are somehow compromised, the entire wallet backup (recovery seed) is not exposed. This redundancy means you no longer have a single point of failure, as with the regular BIP39 backup standard (i.e., the 12-word recovery seeds used by default on most hardware wallets).
Even if one part is lost or compromised, you can still recover your wallet using the remaining parts. This greatly reduces the risk of losing all backup copies at once.
Learn more here,
5. Multisignature (Multisig) Wallets
For advanced users, multisignature wallets add an extra layer of security. A multisig wallet requires multiple keys to authorize transactions, reducing reliance on a single wallet backup.
Multisig is a method of securing a wallet by requiring approval from multiple private keys stored on separate devices when sending transactions. While Trezor recommends SLIP39 wallets as a simpler yet equally robust alternative in terms of backups, Trezor devices are fully compatible with multisig setups, allowing you to choose the option that best fits your needs.
Here’s more on this,
We founded the hardware wallet industry. Our founders, Marek Palatinus and Pavol Rusnak, were part of a team that introduced Bitcoin Improvement Proposal 39, or BIP39. This is a protocol that was introduced as a means to generate deterministic wallets. It’s a method for creating a human-readable mnemonic sentence — easy to read and write — from random data that serves as a backup to recover your wallet. In summary, the wallet backup (aka recovery seed).
This is now widely adopted in the cryptocurrency industry. Learn more here.
Trezor wallets began with employing BIP39 for the wallet backup (recovery seed phrases). When you initialize your Trezor device, it generates a unique 12, 18, or 24-word wallet backup (recovery seed). This seed is a representation of your private keys and is essential for restoring your wallet’s information in case your device is lost, stolen, or damaged. BIP39 has become a crucial part of Trezor’s security protocol, and it is used alongside other BIPs like BIP32 (Hierarchical Deterministic Wallets) and BIP44 (Multi-Account Hierarchy for Deterministic Wallets) to provide an optimal security model for cryptocurrency users.
Our recently introduced enhanced 20-word backup standard (SLIP39) ensures a more robust process for backing up and recovering your wallet compared to the legacy standard. With an upgraded, user-friendly wordlist and seamless transition to Multi-share Backup, SLIP39 offers superior security with no single point of failure.
Once your wallet backup is securely stored, it’s essential to protect it over time. What we do recommend is taking a moment to assess the most probable threats you face. It is important to understand that everyone has a different threat model, and this can change over time. Consider environmental risks, physical attacks, and remote attacks, while doing more. Read more on this here: https://trezor.io/learn/a/keeping-your-wallet-backup-safe
As such,
1. Regularly check for wear and tear or damage. For an example, if the wallet backup is is stored on paper, periodically check for fading or physical damage.
2. Protect against natural disasters. A case in point is ensuring your wallet backup is safeguarded from house fires, floods, or leaks.
3. Plan for inheritance. If you intend to pass down your crypto holdings, ensure you have a secure and private inheritance plan in place. Use a trusted legal advisor or ensure your heirs understand how to access your wallet backup securely.
Avoid these risky practices to protect your wallet backup:
Do not share your wallet backup with anyone else.
Do not keep digital copies of your wallet backup (this includes screenshots, photographs, emails, Dropbox wallet backup, etc).
Never enter your wallet backup anywhere unless prompted by your Trezor device.
Also, remember, no Trezor employee will ever ask you to tell them your wallet backup, even if you’re speaking with one of our customer support agents.
Pros: Simple, inexpensive
Cons: Vulnerable to fire, water, and damage
Pros: Durable, disaster-resistant
Cons: Comes at a cost (even if it’s only $79)
Pros: High physical security, limits access
Cons: Needs proper storage
Pros: High physical security
Cons: Relies on bank access
Pros: Reduces single-point failure risk
Cons: More complex to set up
Pros: Advanced security
Cons: Requires technical expertise
Trezor combines ease of use with robust security features, making it a top choice for protecting your wallet backup:
Here’s what sets Trezor apart from other wallets,
Trezor has been audited by independent security researchers and verified by its track record throughout its years on the market.
Our software and hardware are open-source and public. By doing so, everyone benefits from the community-tested design of their wallet, providing robust protection against real-world threats.
Trezor devices and the tailor-made software interface Trezor Suite are easy to use, making them suitable both for beginners and advanced users of cryptocurrencies.
Securing your wallet backup (recovery seed) is crucial for protecting your digital assets. By following the best practices outlined in this guide, you can safeguard your digital assets from loss, theft, or damage.
Trezor’s hardware wallets, and metal backup solutions, combined with advanced practices like multi-share backup, come together to offer a reliable and user-friendly way to secure your wallet backup. Don’t leave your crypto to chance — take control of your security today.
We recommend the use of a metal backup like Trezor Keep Metal. We definitely recommend avoiding storing the wallet backup digitally.
This depends on several factors. It is important to define your threat model. Choose a secure, hidden location that accounts for these risks. This video can help.
You lose access to your funds permanently. There is no recovery mechanism for lost wallet backups.
No, storing wallet backups online exposes them to hacking risks. Always store them offline.
Yes. Anyone with your wallet backup can access and steal your funds. Keep it private and secure.
No. Trezor does not store your wallet backup. You are fully responsible for its storage and security.
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South Korea is cracking down on unregistered foreign crypto exchanges! 
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