Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common (and critical) questions about Bitcoin self-custody.
Check the Glossary for term definitions, or use the search function.
🔑 Seed Phrases & Recovery
Is my Coldcard seed affected by the 2026 entropy flaw?
If you generated a seed on a Coldcard between March 2021 and July 2026, treat it as compromised and migrate; firmware updates don't fix an existing weak seed. Dice-roll and imported seeds were never affected. Full affected-firmware table and migration steps at the link.
What happens if I lose my seed phrase?
The hard truth: if you lose your seed phrase AND your device, your Bitcoin is almost certainly gone forever. This page explains what's possible and what isn't.
Are Bitcoin recovery services legitimate?
Almost all "recovery services" are scams targeting desperate people. Learn how to recognize fraud and what legitimate recovery actually looks like.
My wallet shows zero balance after recovery
Recovered your wallet but funds are missing? This is usually a configuration issue, not lost Bitcoin. Troubleshoot derivation paths, passphrases, and other common problems.
📜 Estate & Inheritance
How do I pass my Bitcoin to my family?
Comprehensive guide to Bitcoin inheritance planning. An estimated 4 million Bitcoin are permanently lost because owners died without sharing access. Don't let your Bitcoin become another statistic.
📋 More Questions Coming Soon
We're building out this FAQ based on common questions. Topics planned include:
- What if I sent Bitcoin to the wrong address?
- How do I know my hardware wallet is genuine?
- Should I use a passphrase?
- How often should I verify my backup?
- What's the safest way to buy Bitcoin?
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