Seed phrases: how to store them without getting wrecked

Your seed phrase is not “a backup”. It is the wallet. Whoever has it controls the funds.

Don’t do these (common losses)

• Screenshots on your phone.
• Notes apps (even “secure notes”).
• Cloud drives, email drafts, password managers (unless you fully understand the tradeoffs).
• Sharing with anyone “helping you”.

Do this instead

• Write the attaching words on paper (offline), in clear handwriting.
• Store it in a place that’s physically secure (and not obvious).
• Consider a second copy stored separately to protect against fire/water.
• For higher security: engrave/stamp on metal (fire and water resistance).

Two clean mental models

• Digital risk: anything that touches the internet can leak.
• Physical risk: theft, fire, water, curious guests, and “helpful” family members.

Goal: make it hard to steal, and hard to lose — without making it impossible for you to recover.